Christmas is around the corner, and with the Covid-19 pandemic hitting small businesses worldwide, including Malta, the best thing to do is shop local. Being an informed consumer is the only way to shop ethically and sustainably, which is why we’ve combined a list of genuine businesses run by trailblazing women in Malta. To support a woman’s business is to support all women: it is a form of uplifting, supporting and emancipating. Support local women-owned businesses this Christmas. Get festive, feminist and fair with these brands:
Gaia & Nina
The brand by local designer Francesca Pace’ named after her two daughters. These beautiful hand- crafted, designer dresses for girls offer timeless pieces that will create treasured memories of precious times with our little ones.
Gaia & Nina’s Winter Collection for 2021 entails a clothing line straight from winter wonderland and festive, fireplace fairy tales. They are warm in colour as they are in temperature, and a suitable gift for any stylish little girl or boy.
Check out their website here: https://gaiaandnina.com/
Fata Morgana
Need a secret santa gift for your vegan, essential-oil loving friend? Or maybe just want to spoil yourself post-2020 disappointments? From vegan artisan soaps and crystal jewelry to smudge sticks and loose incense, Fata Morgana has a wide variety of products that will definitely do the trick!
Fata Morgana is an online shop owned and run by Rosalind Dougall, focusing on Pagan and Fantasy themes. She runs the shop out of Tarxien, where she has a dedicated stock room at home, which people are welcome to visit by appointment.
Check out Fata Morgana’s products on their social media and blog!
Instagram: @fata.morgana.malta
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/fata.morgana.malta
Blog: http://blog.fatamorganamalta.com
Denise Caruana Services
From chocolate to counselling, Denise Caruana Services is bound to have your wellness in check! Caruana’s website includes both mental wellness sessions and a selection of customised gifts with a wide variety of products varying from Babor skincare, books, chocolate, Stephen Cordina Aromatherapy products, Tea leafs and accessories, bath salts and much more.
Find out more at http://denisecaruanaservices.com!
Fold
Created by a friendship between Suzi and Tina, together these two young Maltese artists produce all the elements of their brand; from design to production and marketing.
Inspired by the bustling city of Barcelona (pre-corona, of course), Fold pouches will keep you safe and stylish with a combination of taste and practicality. These pouches are highly versatile and can compliment any style: an intricate yet safe choice for any gift this Christmas.
Marpesia & Co.
After 10 years of doing historical research, props and set decoration work for films, the creator of Marpesia & Co Martina Gullaumier moved to London in 2017 to achieve two dreams. She earned a diploma in silver jewellery from the London Jewellery School, learning how to work at the bench as well as a number of other techniques, and she ran a stall showcasing her work in Portobello Road Designer’s Market.
Named after the greatest amazon queen, Marpesia & Co offer beautiful jewellery and headpieces, historically inspired and the perfect touch to any outfit. Spoil your friends this Christmas with their vast collection!
https://www.facebook.com/MarpesiaAndCo/
Bonnymia
Based in the United Kingdom, Maltese artist Bonnymia brings a personalised, vibrant collection of wooden cheese boards, bowls, and more. With a variety of customised products, BonnyMia integrates traditionally local colours and designs, creating a beautiful combination of history and modern aesthetics, offering a highly adaptable gift for any dedicated host.
Instagram: bonnymiaart
Facebook: Bonnymia
Mvintage
As a Maltese designer jewellery brand, Mvintage owes its success to its unique outlook on jewellery, and the special women behind it. Founder and designer, Krystle Penza created the brand from a pipe dream into a household name in Malta. Stemming from a passion for art and fashion and the creation of a legacy for her daughter, Krystle developed Mvintage into a community dedicated to the empowerment and support of women.
Bump & Me
Bump & Me is a Maltese online boutique founded by work-from-home mum Rachel, who imports and sells great quality, gorgeous products for parents and kids from bump to 10 years. You’ll find everything from eco nappies to menstrual cups, sustainable clothing to wooden toys, kids’ furniture to rattan baskets. Shop online at Bump & Me and choose collection or delivery across Malta & Gozo.
While Covid-19 has been the Grinch who stole Christmas, you can still keep up the festive spirit and support local women-owned businesses at the same time with a thoughtful gift from one of these wonderful local businesses!
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Emily Galea is a writer and feminist activist in Malta. She is the Vice-President of Young Progressive Beings, Project Co-lead of the Dear Decision Makers campaign, and MA student in Gender, Society & Culture at the University of Malta.
