Christmas Newsletter
Like the Chancellor’s Budget Statement, we’re leaking our Christmas newsletter early.
No matter how important your job, everyone needs a bit of time off at Christmas to relax, reflect and spend some quality time with the ones we love.
So, as our homes morph into Rowan Atkinson’s infamous wrapping counter, we’ve picked a few stocking-filler suggestions from some high quality, entrepreneurial retailers to help lighten your load.
Here’s to surviving this festive season with a little humour and a lot of love.
William Meadon
Founder
Annoushka Jewellery - Sparkle and Shine
Annoushka Jewellery is built on a simple idea: pieces should be functional, expressive, and lasting. Known for her restless pursuit of the new and unexpected, our friend Annoushka’s search for unusual stones and techniques takes her around the world, feeding the constant creativity in her Chelsea studio.
Her signature aesthetic - ingenious mechanisms, unexpected details, and confident design - draws on more than 30 years working with master craftsmen and influences ranging from travel and contemporary design to art, architecture, and the natural world.
The result is jewellery with clarity and character, made to be worn often and treasured for years to come.
“I want my jewellery to make people smile, to tell a story and be enjoyed long after I have left the planet.” - Annoushka Ducas, founder
Website: www.annoushka.com
Hanikon - A Rosé Made with Love
Hanikon began with founder Hayley Ferguson’s ambition to create a Provence rosé that balances heritage and contemporary techniques. Hayley’s family’s legacy of craftsmanship runs deep, spanning from craft beers to fine Scotch whisky.
Her vision comes to life at Domaine La Roullière - an esteemed Provençal estate surrounded by some of the most respected vineyards. The wine itself is a considered blend of Grenache, Cinsault, Mourvèdre, Vermentino, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Already enjoyed in leading hotels from London to St Barths, Monaco, to Cannes - and stocked exclusively at Harrods - Hanikon is quietly establishing itself among Provence’s most premium wines.
Website: www.hanikon.com
Some Advice From Your Uncle Bill...
“Kids, don’t use those big, expensive consultants… go to Steppingstone, they’re practically free”
Couverture & The Garbstore – In the Heart of Notting Hill
For beautifully made, design-led gifts, our friends at Couverture & The Garbstore in Notting Hill is a must-visit.
Couverture offers a refined edit of womenswear, jewellery, and homeware, while the basement Garbstore highlights innovative menswear and accessories from both emerging and heritage brands.
In time for the holidays, they’ve curated gift guides for both him and her, with additional edits of Stocking Fillers and Homeware for those seeking something truly distinctive.
This year, Couverture celebrates their 25th anniversary and Steppingstone is delighted to spotlight our friends as they mark such a special milestone.
You can explore their full collection both in-store and online, making it easy to find something special wherever you are.
Website: www.couvertureandthegarbstore.com
Stepping Back - Oriflame
In 1967, brothers Robert and Jonas af Jochnick and their friend Bengt Hellsten set out to build a business that would fulfil their own dream of creating a direct to consumer beauty brand, inspired by nature.
Always lovers of the UK, Oriflame made history in 1982 by becoming the first foreign company listed on the London Stock Exchange since World War II.
Oriflame has since grown into one of the largest direct-to-consumer beauty brands in the world.
Operating in over 60 countries through independent consultants, Steppingstone is pleased to be partnering with Oriflame - a brand whose story blends entrepreneurship, purpose, and lasting global impact.
As well, through The Oriflame Foundation, the company provides vital support for women and children in need, reflecting its belief that business should be a force for good.
Website : uk.oriflame.com
The Sushi Chef - There’s Nothing You Can Do That Can’t Be Done
A family-run business for over 20 years, The Sushi Chef brings together some of London’s most experienced sushi masters - trusted by leading businesses, luxury hotels, and the city’s most prestigious venues, including Claridge’s and The Royal Albert Hall.
Whether you’re planning a festive corporate celebration or an intimate Christmas gathering at home, The Sushi Chef delivers bespoke culinary experiences tailored to your setting - from Nobu-style private dinners to beautifully crafted sushi canapés.
Website: thesushichef.co.uk/chef-hire
Stocking Fillers
“We’re Not Finished Yet...”
At Steppingstone, we’re committed to supporting exceptional independent British businesses.
Our curated stocking filler suggestions highlight makers whose craft, creativity, and quality we know, love, and trust.
Sapling
Our friends at Sapling have offered Steppingstone’s readers an exclusive 10% discount on all online orders with the code ‘steppingstone’ at checkout.
Sapling’s Climate Positive Gift Box pairs a bottle of their smooth, zesty London Dry Gin with a real Christmas Tree sapling, ready to plant and grow.
SIRPLUS
Soft, timeless, and crafted from the finest Italian cashmere, SIRPLUS’ Cashmere Collection has something for every moment - from cosy knits to refined Nehru jackets.
The MatchBox Maker
Our friends at The MatchBox Maker have offered Steppingstone’s readers an exclusive 10% discount on all online orders with the code ‘steppingstone’ at checkout.
Their beautifully crafted designs made with premium materials, and a touch of wit, make the perfect gift.
The Wren Press
The Wren Press Christmas Cards, available at Luxury Christmas Cards | The Wren Press, Mayfair
David Yarrow Photography
Bill Nighy is an English national treasure, adored by just about everyone. 20 years later, his iconic turn as Billy Mack in Richard Curtis’ Love Actually is still etched into our hearts.
An Englishman in New York, available at David Yarrow Photography
Our Chosen Charities this Christmas
The Felix Project - No One Goes Hungry
The Felix Project is one of the UK’s largest food-redistribution charities, driven by a simple but powerful mission: to ensure good food is never wasted and that no one goes hungry.
Working closely with the food industry, The Felix Project rescues high-quality surplus produce that would otherwise go to waste and distributes it to more than 1,200 community organisations across London, including food banks, homeless shelters and primary schools.
In 2024, The Felix Project prevented nearly 16,000 tonnes of surplus food (valued at £63 million) from going to waste and redistributed the equivalent of 38 million meals.
This year, The Felix Project are on track to rescue the equivalent of 42 million meals.
From the 2nd to 9th of December, all donations to The Felix Project will be matched to help feed families over the holidays.
Learn more about The Felix Project and how to donate at https://thefelixproject.org/feed-london-children
StreetSoccer - Giving the Homeless a Sense of Community
Few people have had as tough a start in life as David Duke MBE.
His turning point came unexpectedly when, working as a Big Issue vendor, he spotted an advert for the Homeless World Cup. Picked to play for Scotland in 2003, David later lifted the World Cup trophy as manager in 2007.
After participating in the tournament, David started volunteering and coaching, which led him to found Street Soccer to provide structure, hope, and support to others. The charity quickly drew wide-spread support, including from Sir Alex Ferguson, who became a founding ambassador.
Street Soccer UK has since supported more than 22,500 people across the UK, facing homelessness, addiction, isolation and mental health challenges.
Learn more about Street Soccer UK and how to donate at www.streetsoccer.givingpage.org
Stepping Out
Cultural recommendations - because life isn't all about work.
Charlie Mackesy at The Barbican
Much-loved British artist, illustrator and author, Charlie Mackesy, invites you to join him in celebration of his highly anticipated new book, Always Remember: The Boy, the mole, the Fox, the Horse and the Storm.
Charlie will be hosting a series of evenings at The Barbican from 1st to 6th December, to say hello and thank you to those who have supported his drawings to date.
Each gathering will feature live drawing, storytelling, music, film and words from Charlie on the courage found in the smallest kindnesses.
If you’d like to join Charlie, find out more here.
Website: www.charliemackesy.com
Le Colombier: Farewell
Steppingstone would like to say a heartfelt thank you and farewell to our friend, Didier Garnier and his much-loved Chelsea institution, Le Colombier, which will close its doors for the last time on 31st December.
Didier’s parting piece of advice to anyone owning a restaurant, or any other business:
“Be there - every day”
A bientôt, Didier!
Who is it?
With thanks to
Click a logo to find out more.
Want your logo here? Get in touch
A Network of Experts
Steppingstone is a flexible support network of affordable, experienced professionals. Get in touch if your business is looking for advisory services to help it reach its full potential.
Disclaimer: The information provided is for general informational purposes only and its contents are for the original recipients of this email only. It is not intended to be, and should not be construed as, financial or investment advice. Steppingstone is neither a financial advisor nor an authorised person within the meaning of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000. The information shared should not be relied upon for making financial decisions.