As you know, buying local has never been more important, so Ellon Life has pulled together all you need to know about what to buy, see and do here to support the community around you this festive season.
Get ready to fall in love with Ellon’s High Street all over again…
Get gifting sorted
“Get someone special something they want, something they need, something to wear and something to read, all from your very own High Street. For a warm welcome, pop into family-owned gift shops like Best Wishes, Myriad, Little Treasures, Floral Request and The Pet Stop, and for a unique mix of antique and new, head for Carbri Curios and Ellon Indoor Market.
Got a sweet tooth? Hey Sweetie is the place to go! For sporty types, the teams at Intersport, J&K Shoes and GPH are clued up on everything from sporting equipment to hiking and working boots to practical outfits to fend off the Scottish weather.
If your Secret Santa recipient is into precious stones and crystals, a visit to Jules Healing Gems and K&C Jewellers (which also has an extensive range of spirits and run distillery tours!) is a must.“
Go for a gift voucher
“If you’ve got some hard-to-buy-for names on your list, make it easy for yourself and encourage them to support local with a glorious gift voucher! You’ll find options at Aberdeenshire Larder, Artisan Salon, Bare, Best Wishes, Catwalkers, The Coffee Apothecary, Dress You Up Boutique, Face Renew, Floral Request, The Gaff, GLZ Tanning, Little Treasures, Riverview Cafe, Myriad, The Pet Stop, Rogues, Symposium, The Therapy Room, The Chocolate Bar, Paperdoll Photography and many more.
Can’t decide on just one voucher? Order a Scotland Loves Local gift card online – it can be redeemed at lots of different places across Aberdeenshire. Handy!“
Take a break
“Grab a brew and a bite to eat at The Chocolate Bar, The Coffee Apothecary, Symposium, Delicious or the Riverside Cafe. Bringing your furry friend? Try the dog-friendly Coffee Lab Cafe by the river. And if you’re scouring socials over your cuppa, look out on Facebook for the Chocolate Box’s Advent Give-a-way and Symposium’s Advent Calendar for special treats during the Christmas countdown!“
Be pampered
“Whether you want to get Christmas-ready with a new hairstyle and a fresh set of gel nails or you’re in need of an indulgent massage-shaped pick-me up (because, let’s face it, the freezing temperatures and dark mornings aren’t great for our festive cheer!), our local health, beauty and wellbeing suppliers have you covered.
Cinnamon Fringe, SPJ Hair Design, Blue Haven Hair & Beauty, Al’s Barber’s or Golden Scissors will sort your hair out while health and wellbeing specialists, like The Therapy Rooms, Face Renew, Body Logic Therapies, are all ready to take care you this winter. Go on, ‘tis the season to treat yourself! “
Prep the turkey
“ Don’t leave your festive food shop ‘til the last minute – pop to the Ellon Farmers’ Market on 18th December at Neil Ross Square and take advantage of pre-ordering at your local stores. There’s a side of salmon to be had from the Ellon Fish Shop, whilst Aberdeenshire Larder will sort you out with turkey and all the trimmings.
Stock up on mince pies and other delights at Ythan Bakery, and don’t forget to grab some graze boxes and cheese boards from Bare – perfect for when you inevitably get peckish in the evening! Finally, head to Greens of Ellon for all the beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) you need to see you through the festive season.“
Get dressed up
“After last year’s not-quite-a-Christmas, you’re going to want to look GREAT for your family gathering this year! Whether you follow fashion or go unique, Ellon’s beautiful boutiques and quirky shops offer bags of independent charm.
Catwalkers, Dress You Up Boutique and Mel’s Custom Frocks offer a great range of off-the-peg and bespoke outfits – and their friendly, personal service will get you in the party spirit! Just add shoes and handbags from J&K Shoes, and you’ve got the perfect outfit.“
Make a night of it
“After shopping all day, how about blowing off some steam ice-skating at the BrewDog DogTap ice rink? Next up, enjoy some festive food and drinks at Eat on the Green, sample a cocktail or three at The New Inn Hotel and dance the night away at Nosheen’s of Ellon. Afterwards, rest that weary head with a relaxing overnight stay at the Buchan Hotel. Top tip: Make sure to check out the locally brewed beer and nearby-sourced food at our local pubs and restaurants!“
Countdown till Christmas
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Ellon Life is brought to you by Ellon Phoenix Fund, supported by Ellon Traders Association, Ellon Community Council, Reason Agency and Aberdeenshire Council Support Local Campaign.
