As a small business owner, I’m incredibly passionate about where the products I sell come from and how they’re made. Supporting UK manufacturing is something I take seriously, but I also believe in being transparent about the few items that aren’t made here.

In this post, I want to share the story behind the products in my shop, why “Made in the UK” is so important to me, and how I ensure that anything made overseas meets strict ethical standards.

Proudly Made in the UK

The majority of the products I sell are made right here in the UK, and I’m so proud of that. By supporting UK manufacturing, I’m not only helping to reduce the environmental impact of transporting goods long distances, but I’m also supporting local businesses, printers, and artisans.

✅ Cards and Stationery: All the cards I sell are printed in the UK, and I’m especially proud of the following which I also design myself:

• Gaelic cards
• Paper tape
• Letter writing sets
• Stickers
• Gift Wrap

Supporting UK printers helps me ensure high quality while keeping production close to home.

✅ Gifts and Homeware: Many of the other items in my shop are also made in the UK:

• Candles
• Jigsaws
• Stationery
• Soap

These are carefully crafted by British makers, supporting local industries and reducing carbon footprints. This means I can offer unique, beautifully designed pieces that support British makers and bring you something truly special.

When UK Manufacturing Isn’t an Option

There are some products, like plushies, that just can’t be manufactured in the UK. After doing plenty of research, I’ve found that there are simply no UK-based manufacturers creating soft toys affordably or at a price that consumers would buy.

For these items, I work with trusted UK companies like Wrendale Designs, who share my values. Wrendale produces everything it can in the UK, but for items like plushies, they’ve built strong relationships with ethical suppliers overseas.

These suppliers operate under strict policies to ensure fair working conditions, responsible sourcing, and high-quality craftsmanship. So even when a product isn’t made in the UK, I can be confident it’s been made thoughtfully and ethically.

Supporting Independent Artists and Ethical Practices

As a small business, I know firsthand how much love, time, and effort goes into creating something unique. That’s why I’m passionate about supporting independent artists, especially those whose cards and designs I proudly sell.

Unfortunately, the rise of platforms that allow the sale of products with stolen or copyrighted designs has made life even harder for these talented individuals. Organisations like the Greetings Card Association (GCA), which represents the UK’s greeting card industry, are working hard to protect these artists and tackle the growing issue of copyright breaches, but it remains an ongoing challenge.

I want to be clear: I don’t source products from platforms like Temu, as they’re known for hosting items that breach copyright, an issue that negatively impacts artists I proudly support. My goal is to support creators, not harm them. The last thing I would ever do is contribute to a problem that makes my fellow illustrators suffer, forcing them to spend precious time fighting to protect their livelihoods.

By choosing to stock cards and gifts from ethical and independent creators, I hope I’m helping to celebrate their work and ensure they’re properly supported.

Why Transparency Matters

I believe that being transparent isn’t just about sharing the story behind the products I sell; it’s also about being open to learning and improving.

Ethical sourcing is a journey, and I’m always researching to make sure the items in my shop align with my values. If new information ever comes to light that suggests something I’m selling doesn’t meet the ethical standards I strive for, I’d want to hear about it.

Likewise, if you know of alternative UK-based manufacturers or ethical suppliers for certain products, I’m always open to suggestions. Your feedback helps me grow and ensures that I’m providing the best options for my customers.

Want to Know More?

If you’re curious about a particular product or want to learn more about the brands I work with, I’d love to heard from you. I love sharing the stories behind the items I sell!

📍 And don’t forget to check out the shop for all my latest finds. Browse my full collection of UK-made and ethically sourced products here. – I hope you’ll love them as much as I do.

Why the Universal Service Obligation Matters to Us All

The Universal Service Obligation (USO) is a cornerstone of the UK’s postal service. It ensures that all parts of the country—no matter how rural or remote—receive equal access to affordable and reliable postal services.

For communities in the Highlands and Islands, the USO isn’t just a convenience; it’s a lifeline. This was shown recently with a huge response to a Greetings Card Association led petition to call for parliamentary scrutiny of any changes to the USO.

Recently, Ofcom conducted a consultation on the future of the USO, but alarmingly, it seems that very few people were aware of it—and even fewer responded. In fact, not a single response came from the Highlands and Islands, an area that relies heavily on this service.

This lack of engagement raises serious questions about the viability of Ofcom’s consultation process and whether it truly reflects the views of those most affected by potential changes to the postal service.

To raise these concerns, I’ve written to the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, who oversees Ofcom, asking for a review of the consultation process and for greater efforts to engage with rural communities. Copies of my letter have also been sent to the Chair of the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee and Ofcom itself. I’m sharing my letter here to raise awareness of this critical issue and encourage others to act.

What You Can Do to Help Protect the USO

This issue affects all of us, but especially rural and remote communities. Here are some ways you can help protect the Universal Service Obligation:

1. Write Your Own Letter
   You can write to your local MP, the Secretary of State, or Ofcom to share your concerns. Feel free to use my letter as inspiration.
2. Spread the Word
   Share this blog post on social media or email it to friends, family, and colleagues. The more people who know about this issue, the stronger our collective voice will be.
3. Engage with Local Media
   Contact local newspapers, radio stations, or community groups to ensure this issue gets the attention it deserves.
4. Keep Sending Mail!
   As they say – Use it or Lose it! If we keep sending cards and letters then it shows there is a demand for our Royal Mail Service.
   

Why This Matters

The Universal Service Obligation guarantees more than just post—it guarantees connection, equality, and opportunity for every part of the UK. For rural areas like the Highlands and Islands, it’s a vital service that supports businesses, links families, and keeps communities thriving.

Visual Timeline of the USO

Any changes to the USO could disproportionately harm those who already face challenges of distance and isolation. We cannot allow these voices to be ignored.

Together, we can ensure that Parliament, Ofcom, and the government hear us loud and clear: the Universal Service Obligation must be protected.

Thank you for taking the time to read this. Let’s act now to make sure everyone has access to the postal services they deserve.

As someone from the Western Isles, I’ve seen firsthand how vital Royal Mail is to our way of life. It’s not just about delivering the odd parcel – it’s about keeping us connected in ways that truly matter. From hospital appointment letters to heartfelt cards from loved ones, Royal Mail is a lifeline for remote communities like ours.

But now that lifeline is under threat. The Universal Service Obligation (USO) – which ensures affordable and reliable postal services across the UK – is at risk of being weakened or lost altogether. That could mean higher costs, reduced services, and fewer protections for areas like ours where alternative delivery options are limited or expensive.

Of course, modern technology has given us fantastic ways to stay in touch. Social media, video calls, and instant messaging all have their place. But there’s something uniquely special about a handwritten card or letter. It’s a tangible reminder that someone has taken time out of their day to think of you. It’s not fleeting or disposable like a text message – it’s something you can hold, look at, and read again and again.

Receiving a letter or card can have a real impact on mental health and wellbeing. In a world that often feels rushed and digital, a handwritten message is a moment of care frozen in time. It can brighten a tough day and provide comfort when we need it most. Whether it’s a birthday card, a note of encouragement, or a simple “thinking of you,” these small gestures mean so much – especially for those who might feel isolated or far away from loved ones.

Here in the Western Isles, we’ve taken this campaign to heart. Despite being one of the smallest constituencies in the UK – with a population about a quarter of the size of most constituencies – we’re leading the charge with a percentage of signatures far higher than anywhere else. In fact, the total number of signatories from the Western Isles is double that of all other constituencies except our neighbours in Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross. It shows just how much this issue resonates with our community and how determined we are to protect this vital service.

But we know this isn’t just about us. Remote communities across Scotland, from the Highlands to Shetland, Orkney, and beyond, all rely on Royal Mail just as much as we do. Couriers often slap on hefty surcharges for deliveries to these areas – if they’ll deliver at all – but Royal Mail treats us equally, no matter how far-flung we are.

Now, we need to stand together to protect it. The petition needs 100,000 signatures to trigger a parliamentary debate. That’s where you come in.

We’re challenging all remote communities – Highlands, Shetland, Orkney, and beyond – to join us in making some noise. Let’s show the rest of the UK just how much we value Royal Mail and why it’s worth fighting for.

The Western Isles might be leading the charge right now, but can you beat us? We’d love to see some healthy competition! Together, we can make sure the unique needs of islanders and rural communities are impossible to ignore.

Sign the petition here: [https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/701850]

Let’s protect this vital service for future generations. Are you up for the challenge?

Looking for unique gifts that capture the charm of post boxes? In this blog post, we’ll explore a delightful selection of Etsy treasures featuring post box designs, perfect for the festive season and beyond. From whimsical Christmas decorations and beautifully crafted greeting cards to elegant wax seal stamps and fun cookie cutters, these thoughtful gifts are sure to bring a smile to anyone who appreciates the nostalgic appeal of letters and parcels. Join us as we uncover the best Etsy finds that celebrate the magic of the post!

My Top 7 Etsy Gifts Featuring a Post Box

In summary, this festive season offers a wealth of creative opportunities, from designing your own Christmas cards and tags with charming vintage postal elements to adding a nostalgic touch with an actual postbox. Each idea brings a unique flair to your holiday celebrations, ensuring that your gifts and greetings are truly special. For all these delightful gifts and more, be sure to visit the Etsy Holiday Hub, your one-stop shop for festive inspiration. Remember, this blog post contains affiliate links, so your support helps us continue to share wonderful ideas. Happy crafting and joyful gifting!

Hands up if you’re a sucker for a good old-fashioned letter! There’s something so wonderfully tactile and personal about putting pen to paper and crafting a heartfelt missive to send off to a loved one. But of course, the real magic happens when you kit yourself out with all the proper letter writing accoutrements. From fancy fountain pens to wax seals and patterned tapes, the right supplies can elevate your correspondence to an absolute art form. That’s why I’ve scoured Etsy to uncover the cream of the crop when it comes to stationery must-haves. In this guide, I’ll be sharing my top picks to help you upgrade your letter writing game and make your notes extra special. Ready to get your posh pen on? Let’s dive in!

Letter Writing Sets

When it comes to letter writing, the stationery itself is half the fun. That’s why I’ve scoured Etsy to uncover four truly exquisite letter writing sets that will make your correspondence shine.

1 – Beautifully Botanical Letter Writing Set from the artisans of northern Thailand.

Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this set embodies the essence of artisanal care and craftsmanship. Rather than mass-producing these pieces, the skilled makers focus intently on the intricacies of each individual item, ensuring a level of quality that simply can’t be matched by factory-made stationery.

Whether you’re penning heartfelt love letters, sending warm birthday wishes, or crafting elegant invitations, this Beautifully Botanical set will lend an air of artistry and timeless charm to all your written correspondence.

2 – Charming Children’s Animal Camping Letter Writing Set from Making Meadows UK

Whether you’re surprising a budding young author, encouraging a child’s burgeoning letter writing habit, or simply providing them with beautiful stationery to express their creativity, this Animal Camping Letter Writing Set from Making Meadows UK is sure to delight. And be sure to check out the full range of Making Meadows UK sets as there are LOTS to choose from.

3 – Enchanting Moon Gazing Hare Letter Writing Set

Whether you’re writing heartfelt letters, sending warm wishes, or simply expressing your creativity, this Moon Gazing Hare Letter Writing Set will lend an air of whimsy and magic to all your correspondence. Prepare to delight the recipient with this captivating and one-of-a-kind stationery.

4 – Ink and Snail Friends Letter Writing Set with Stickers

Whether you’re corresponding with family and friends or simply looking to add a touch of enchantment to your own writing, this Meadow Stationery Set from Ink and Snail is a wonderful choice. The high-quality paper and envelopes provide a luxurious writing experience, while the decorative stickers allow for even more personalization and expression.

I have been selling Honor’s designs for several years now on greetings cards from Phoenix Trading and Flamingo Paperie. As a celebrated children’s book illustrator, Honor Barton’s artwork has captivated many, and this stationery set offers a chance to bring her delightful designs into the world of letter writing. Delight the special people in your life with this charming and whimsical Meadow Stationery Set from Ink and Snail.

Elegant and Versatile Fountain Pen for Everyday Writing and Calligraphy

Why use a fountain pen?

Smooth Ink Flow and Personalized Writing Experience

Fountain pens, like the one featured below, offer a distinct writing experience compared to ballpoint or rollerball pens. The smooth, consistent ink flow from the nib provides a seamless glide across the page, allowing for more control and expressiveness in your handwriting.

The use of liquid ink in a fountain pen, rather than the solid ink cores found in other pen types, enables a more personal and nuanced writing style. Variations in pressure and angle can produce subtle line width changes, enabling you to add flair and character to your letters, notes, and signatures.

Enhanced Tactile Sensation
The weightier construction and ergonomic design of a quality fountain pen also contribute to a more engaging and satisfying writing experience. The balance and heft of the pen in your hand provides a heightened sense of control and connection to the writing process.

This tactile feedback can make the act of putting pen to paper a more mindful and rewarding experience, fostering a deeper appreciation for the art of handwritten communication in our increasingly digital world.

Timeless Elegance and Prestige
Beyond the functional benefits, a well-crafted fountain pen like this one also exudes an air of sophistication and timelessness. The elegant aesthetic, with its metal accents and smooth lacquered body, elevates the act of writing and can make even the most mundane tasks feel more special.

Incorporating a fountain pen into your letter-writing routine can lend an air of formality and personalization to your correspondence, distinguishing your handwritten notes from the ubiquity of digital communications.

The key highlight of this pen is the impressive selection of nibs:

• Fine Jinhao Steel Nib: Offers a smooth writing experience from a trusted brand.
• Medium/Fine Two-Tone Gilt Nib: An elegant steel nib with gold highlights, providing a slightly finer line than a standard medium.
• 1.1mm Steel Italic/Stub Nib: Gives your writing a distinctive, calligraphic look by producing wider lines when writing downward.
• 1.5mm Golden Italic/Stub Nib: A broader italic nib perfect for headings, calligraphy, and signatures.
• Two-Tone Part Gold-Plated Fude Nib: The unique “brush-like” Fude nib allows for expressive variations in stroke width by adjusting the writing angle.

This pen comes equipped with a removable ink converter, allowing you to fill it from bottled ink for maximum versatility. It also accommodates standard international ink cartridges for convenient refilling.

Regardless of your writing style or level of expertise, this fountain pen delivers superior performance at an affordable price point. Elevate your everyday writing, create beautiful calligraphy, and explore new artistic possibilities with this exceptional and versatile fountain pen. By pairing this refillable fountain pen with the high-quality letter writing sets, you can create a truly elevated and immersive stationery experience – one that celebrates the enduring allure of the written word in a modern context.

Elegant Magnolia Wax Seals

When it comes to elevating your letter-writing experience, the elegant magnolia wax seals from Sweet Ophelia Designs offer a truly luxurious touch. These delicate, pre-made seals feature an enchanting floral motif, adding a refined finishing accent to your correspondence and stationery.

Unlike a traditional wax seal kit, these pre-formed seals eliminate the need for melting wax and a seal stamper. Simply peel and adhere the wax seal to your envelope, card, or document for an instant burst of sophistication.

With a variety of magnolia-inspired designs available from Sweet Ophelia Designs, you can choose the perfect seals to match your personal style or the aesthetic of your letter-writing sets. These wax seals make a lovely finishing touch that celebrates the art of handwritten communication.

Elevate Your Letter-Writing with Charming Rubber Stamp Designs from Noolibird Stamps

This delightful collection of Tiny Town Rubber Stamps from Noolibird Stamps offers a wonderful way to add a personal touch and festive flair to your letter-writing and stationery. Inspired by the nostalgic charm of a quaint Christmas village, these stamps allow you to create captivating scenes that transform even the simplest envelopes and cards into works of art.

The vintage-inspired illustrations, rendered in a muted colour palette of charcoal, sky grey, polar blue, Atlantic blue, camellia red, tangerine, evergreen, and gold, lend an heirloom quality to your handwritten correspondence. With this versatile stamp collection, you can elevate the artistry of your letters, cards, and envelopes, making each one a cherished keepsake.

Whether you’re sending holiday greetings, birthday wishes, or simply a heartfelt note, these Tiny Town Rubber Stamps from Noolibird Stamps allow you to infuse your stationery with heart warming charm and personal flair. Elevate your letter-writing experience and create unforgettable impressions with this delightful stamp set.

Eco-Friendly Stamps Design Paper Tape for Festive Embellishments

Elevate your seasonal correspondence, gift-wrapping, and more with the charming Christmas-inspired designs of Cards and Gift Wrap paper tapes. Spread holiday happiness and add a touch of whimsical flair to all your festive projects.

Crafting Heartfelt Connections Through Personal Stationery

In an age of digital communication, the art of letter writing holds a timeless charm that allows us to forge deep, meaningful connections. By incorporating the carefully curated stationery supplies featured in this post, you can infuse each missive with a sense of seasonal warmth and personal expression.

Whether you’re penning holiday greetings to loved ones, crafting heartfelt thank-you notes, or simply journaling your musings, the diverse array of letter writing sets, wax seals, affordable fountain pens, paper tape, and rubber stamps provide endless opportunities to create truly one-of-a-kind stationery. Experiment with mixing and matching these elements to develop your own unique aesthetic – from elegant and refined to charmingly whimsical.

As you nurture the tradition of letter writing, remember that the true gift lies not in the materials, but in the sentiment you pour into each word. By taking the time to put pen to paper, you have the power to spread joy, express gratitude, and cultivate cherished memories that will long outlast the fleeting nature of digital exchanges.

So, gather your favourite stationery supplies from the thoughtfully curated selection featured here, and embark on a journey of heartfelt correspondence. Your loved ones are sure to treasure the personal touch and timeless elegance of your handwritten notes.

Wishing you the warmth of connection and the joy of creative expression!

Mental Health Awareness on a Daily Basis

It’s Mental Health Awareness Week. It’s a time to pause and reflect on the importance of caring for our minds just as we do our bodies. In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s all too easy to overlook the small but meaningful things. In other words, all the little things we can do to support our mental health. But this week, let’s make a conscious effort to incorporate some simple yet powerful practices into our routines.

Furthermore, Mental Health Awareness is something close to my heart. I have teenagers who seem to constantly battle with mental health and tell me they need a ‘mental health day’. Different from when I grew up where we just had to ‘get on with it’. I wonder are they more in touch or less resilient? In addition, having faced depression myself in my early 20s, the state of my own mental health is always on my own mind too.

Here are some things that I’ve found helpful over the years. Perhaps it’s no surprise that many of these feature in my shop. They are all activities I’ve found helpful and have helped to make me smile over the years so I guess that’s why I sell them in the hope they help others too.

Puzzle it Out

When was the last time you sat down with a jigsaw puzzle? This delightfully analogue activity has a unique way of engaging our minds and soothing our souls. As we methodically sort, connect, and place each piece, we enter a state of gentle focus that allows our thoughts to slow down and our worries to melt away. Puzzles can be a wonderful meditation in motion, helping us be fully present in the moment.

Do you puzzle alone or with others? Puzzling alone can provide great time out to switch off from everything and everyone around you But by comparison, puzzling with others can help foster relationships. Completing a jigsaw puzzle together can be a wonderfully social activity. It provides an opportunity to engage, communicate, and bond with family members, friends, or even new acquaintances. In addition, as you work collaboratively to solve the puzzle, you’ll naturally find yourselves conversing, sharing ideas, and enjoying each other’s company. Completing jigsaw puzzles with others can provide a wealth of mental health benefits. If you’d like to know more about this topic, then I’d recommend checking out the book “The Puzzler’s Dilemma” by Derrick Niederman. This well-researched book delves into the cognitive, social, and emotional advantages of puzzling, with insights from psychology, neuroscience, and more.

Cultivate Gratitude into your Daily Mindfulness and Mental Resilience

The transformative power of gratitude is well-documented. By taking a few moments each day to jot down the things we’re thankful for. Whether it’s the vibrant tulips blooming in our garden, the cosy hug from a loved one, or the perfect cup of coffee. If we do this, then we can train our minds to seek out the beauty and positivity all around us. A simple gratitude journal can be a game-changer for our mental well-being. In short we need to get into a way of thinking where we look for the small, simple, satisfying things in life that make us smile.

Send Some Cheer and Promote Psychosocial Wellness

During this week, make a point of reaching out to loved ones, near and far, with a heartfelt card or note? Taking time to put pen to paper and express our appreciation for the special people in our lives is a wonderfully meaningful gesture. In our increasingly digital world, the simple act of sending snail mail can be a true mood-booster.

In fact sending cards is like a double whammy for mental health. Heard of the phrase ‘the gift is in the giving’? Not only does receiving the card boosts spirits for both the receiver but also it makes you, the sender feel good too.

Embrace Nature’s Bounty

Studies have shown that time spent in nature can have a profoundly calming effect on our minds and bodies. So, make it a point to step outside and immerse yourself in the great outdoors. Even if it’s just a brief stroll around the block. Breathe deeply, take in the sights and sounds of the natural world. Then let the worries of the day float away. Plant something. Pick some flowers. Listen to the birds. Similarly, stop and look for the little guys; the frogspawn, the ants, the ladybirds and listening to the bees buzzing. And while you’re at it, why not stop to admire the wildflowers that are popping up all around?

Indulge in a Little Sweetness

Finally, don’t forget to treat yourself! A small square of dark chocolate can be a wonderful way to lift our spirits and nourish our souls. It doesn’t just taste great! Significantly, the antioxidants, mood-boosting properties, and sheer deliciousness of this beloved confection make it a perfect companion for our mental health journey.

As shown above you can also get that double whammy of giving and indulging if you share with a loved one.

Stronger Connections, Wellbeing and Making Our Awareness of Mental Health a Daily Norm

This Mental Health Awareness Week, let’s embrace these simple, yet powerful, practices to nurture our well-being. By taking the time to puzzle, journal, connect, explore, and indulge, we can cultivate a deeper sense of balance, joy, and resilience. Not just for this week, but for the days, weeks, and months to come.

Welcome to the captivating world of the Outer Hebrides, a mesmerizing archipelago off the northwest coast of Scotland. From its unconventional school holidays to its breath taking landscapes, vibrant culture, and remarkable local treasures, this hidden gem offers an experience like no other. Join me as I embark on a journey to unravel my Top Nine unique charms, quirks and more that make the Outer Hebrides so extraordinary.

Come with me on a journey through the Outer Hebrides with its Quirks, Wildlife, and Craftsmanship

1 – Vast Unoccupied Beaches

Prepare to be spellbound by the Outer Hebrides’ pristine beaches. With their untouched beauty and expanses of golden sand, these shores offer a sense of tranquillity that is hard to find elsewhere. From the famous Luskentyre Beach to the hidden gems of Traigh Mhor and Uig Sands, you’ll discover a beachcomber’s paradise.

In our experience they are largely deserted, you won’t have to fight for a space for your deck chair. On most days leave the deck chair at home as the sea breeze may well whisk it away across the Atlantic – we don’t call it breath taking for nothing!

2 – Marine and Wildlife Extravaganza

Dive into the wonders of the deep as you explore the rich marine life surrounding the Outer Hebrides. Embark on boat trips to observe dolphins, seals, and whales, or indulge in snorkelling adventures in crystal-clear waters. The diverse marine ecosystem will leave you mesmerized. Get ready for encounters with playful seals and the possibility of spotting the magnificent basking sharks. One of the most rewarding trips you can take is a boat trip to St Kilda with Sea Harris or Kilda Cruises.

Explore the fascinating machair landscape of the Outer Hebrides, where nature’s artistry takes centre stage. This lush coastal habitat not only mesmerizes with its vibrant wildflowers but also serves as a wellspring of inspiration for local artists and artisans. From charming puffins to graceful red deer, the wildlife that calls the machair home becomes a muse for creativity.

3 – Unconventional School Holidays and Sundays

In the Outer Hebrides, time dances to a different tune. As I write this the rest of the UK revels in their May bank holiday, while we celebrated our school holiday the weekend prior. It’s just one of the many quirks that make this place truly unique. In the Outer Hebrides, time seems to stand still on Sundays, as a unique tradition persists. Most establishments remain closed on Sundays in certain parts of the islands, adding to the charm of the place. However, even in this tradition, inconsistency prevails, with the Southern Islands embracing more freedom on this day than their Northern counterparts. When we arrived in the Outer Hebrides in 2009 there was no ferry on a Sunday and planes had only recently started to fly out of Stornoway airport on the Sabbath. That has all changed now but many things remain closed like the Sports Centre and Swimming Pools in Lewis and you will certainly see less washing hanging out on a Sunday than on other days.

4 – Culture and Gaelic Heritage

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of the Outer Hebrides. This region is deeply rooted in Gaelic traditions, with a language that still thrives today. Discover the Gaelic connection through language, music, and art, and delve into the vibrant history of the islands. Don’t forget to explore our Gaelic cards, adorned with illustrations inspired by the enchanting wildlife of the machair.

5 – The Tale of Two Islands: Lewis and Harris

Experience the unique duality of the Outer Hebrides with the Isle of Lewis and the Isle of Harris, two distinct islands on one landmass. Where else would you find that?! Explore the rugged mountains and ancient standing stones of Lewis, and venture to the southern part known as Harris, where you’ll find stunning white sandy beaches and the world-renowned Harris Tweed.

6 – Stornoway Black Pudding: A Gastronomic Delight

Indulge your taste buds in the unique flavours of Stornoway Black Pudding—a culinary delight originating from the Outer Hebrides. Learn about the traditional methods used in crafting this savoury delicacy and relish its rich, earthy taste. Support local suppliers and discover where to find the best Stornoway Black Pudding. It’s a controversial subject which butcher is the best in Stornoway. We’re lucky to be served by so many, a rare thing in the age of the supermarket. My personal preference is Charley Barley but you decide for yourself, why not sample them all?! Eat it on its own, with scrambled eggs, on a pizza – it tastes good any way it’s served.

7 – Guga: A Peculiar Culinary Tradition

Stornoway Black Pudding isn’t the only culinary ‘delight’ on the islands. Delve into the curious gastronomic tradition of guga hunting. Each year, a small number of islanders embark on a daring adventure to harvest young gannet chicks, known as “guga,” from the remote Sula Sgeir island. Discover the cultural significance and the taste of this peculiar culinary tradition, a testament to the connection between the islanders and the bountiful seas that surround them. This is the only place in the UK where gannets can be hunted legally and remains a controversial subject for some.

8 – Peat Cutting

Step into the rich history of the Outer Hebrides and discover the ancient art of peat cutting. For generations, islanders have relied on peat as a vital source of fuel. Experience an age-old tradition as you witness locals skilfully extract blocks of peat from the earth using traditional tools. Learn about the significance of peat in the islanders’ lives, from its use as a fuel source to its cultural importance and the distinctive smoky aroma it imparts when burned. Find out more and soak in the rich scent at the Arnol Blackhouse, one of our favourite places to visit.

9 – Harris Tweed: A Touch of Timeless Elegance

Unravel the story behind Harris Tweed, a fabric that has captivated the fashion world for centuries. Discover the intricate craftsmanship and the journey of this handwoven textile, and explore local suppliers who continue to create masterpieces with this iconic material. Taste the essence of tradition with each thread. While visiting Harris be sure to pop in to see Becca, she taught me how to weave Harris Tweed.

And if you thought weaving from your home was just a cultural tradition then you’d be wrong. It’s an income stream for some on the islands. Running your own business from home, whether full time or alongside a main job is historical and still prevalent on the islands today. While I run Cards and Gift Wrap from our home, my husband is a full-time author from home. Though he can often be found in our favourite coffee shop, Kopi Java. And you’ll find a myriad of honesty shops around the islands. Check out The Lewis and Harris Trail to make the most of any journey from the Butt to Barra.

Why the Outer Hebrides is still our home, despite all its quirks.

The Outer Hebrides may be a place of unconventional school holidays, Sunday closures, and peculiar traditions, but it is precisely these quirks that make it feel like home. Amidst the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, there is a sense of belonging that permeates the islands. Whether it’s the warm hospitality of the locals, the connection to Gaelic heritage, or the centuries-old craftsmanship that thrives here, the Outer Hebrides captivate our hearts and remind us of the enduring spirit of this unique corner of the world. It is a place where nature, tradition, and community intertwine, creating a timeless allure that keeps calling us back.

Every corner of this archipelago has a story to tell. Experience the magic for yourself, and let the Outer Hebrides capture your heart with its boundless charm.

You might even find yourself passing by my little shop beside our home!