Wednesday, 1 September 2021
While we’ve all been affected by the impact of Covid, many small businesses across the country are among some of the hardest hit. We’re proud to serve a region that is packed full of incredible small and independent businesses that are at the heart of their communities. Why not give something back to the places that have been there throughout the years, in a time when they need our support the most?
We’ve put together a few ways you can help to support your favourite businesses and some brilliant independents that you need to discover!
Restaurant standard, on the sofa
If there’s one thing we’ve learnt from national restrictions, it’s to enjoy the little things in life. And it doesn’t get more exciting than a takeaway to bring a bit of excitement to our days at home!
With large parts of our region still in tier three, the ability to get glammed up for a night of wining and dining is still not quite possible. As much as a disappointment that may be to us, it’s hitting the restaurants and hospitality industry even harder.
So to make sure your favourite spots are still around when normality returns, keep those takeaways flowing and give yourself and our local eateries a much-needed pick-me-up!
Here are a couple of incredible foodie spots offering takeaway.
The Filthy Vegan, Nottingham
Missing that end-of-the-night kebab? Well now you can enjoy all the goodness of the naughty treat, without the painful head the next morning (or the huge calories)! The Filthy Vegan have been serving up mouth watering street food style eats across Nottingham, but now they're bringing their messy, moorish goodness to you. Who says Vegans are missing out?
Deckards, Sheffield
‘Bao’ down to the king of Sheffield street food. Deckard’s is firmly on the map for foodie favourites in the city, so much so that they were winners of Exposed Awards 2019! Their unique take on the delicious bao bun is something to behold. Plus there’s a host of other exciting Asian inspired dishes that will make placing your order the hardest decision you’ll make. Don’t worry though, there’s always next time to try the others.
Got a foodie favourite that you’d love more people to know about? Why not share it with your friends and followers on social media, and help get the word out!
Shop Small
Christmas may be far behind us now, but as the shopaholics among us will know, there’s always a reason to shop. Whether there’s a big birthday on the horizon, or you just fancy splashing out for a much-needed treat, why not take a minute to look at what your small, independent stores have on offer?
With more and more local stores now set up for online shopping, you can find those one-of-a-kind pieces in just a few clicks. You might just find that unique bit of magic you were hoping for.
Here’s a couple of our favourite independent businesses from across our region that are perfect for finding something special!
Lindum Books, Lincoln
Nestled in the historic Bailgate off the cathedral quarter in the city, Lindum Books is one of just a few surviving independent book shops that offer a personal touch to those keen readers. While walking the around the beautiful shop may not be possible right now, you can still find the perfect next read for you or a loved one online.
Cocoa Amore, Leicester
While we’ve all had a good dose of chocolatey goodness over Christmas, when it comes to the beautifully crafted delights found at Cocoa Amore, you can never have enough.
This renowned chocolatier in the heart of Leicester is the epitome of luxury. With a selection of delicious, hand-crafted chocolates on offer, they make the perfect gift that everyone will love (or a bit of self-indulgence wouldn’t hurt).
Design at 44, Derby
Photograph by Design@44
It’s no wonder this Derby gem has now taken up a prime spot in the middle of Derby Centre! If you’re looking for that extra special gift or quirky homewares that are packed with personality, then you’ve come to the right place. Design at 44 is an emporium of handmade gifts and lifestyle pieces that you won’t find elsewhere. They work closely with makers to always offer high quality and unique pieces that you’re bound to love. With the store back open and restrictions permitting, why not take a peek at their impressive store - or if you can’t make it - why not head to their online shop?
Be virtually there
Whether you’re self-isolating or in a higher tier, we can imagine you’re itching to get out and explore again. While you wait until those days come and you can head off and see the sights, why not get a taste of all those unique experiences from the comfort of your own sofa?
Virtual events offer the next best thing to being there in person, with some added benefits too. Plus, you can experience the culture from areas all across our region, all in one day!
Live from the Barbican
London’s Barbican theatre is renowned for seeing some of the biggest talents in music and theatre take to the stage. And now is no exception. Every week will see a new artist perform from the music hall which you can enjoy from the best seats in the (your) house. Feel closer to the stage than ever before and discover your new favourite artist.
Derby to Da Vinci
Derby Museums is home to a fascinating range of nationally important collections with sites at Derby Museum and Art Gallery, Pickford's House and the soon-to-be-opened Museum of Making. The Museums' new microsite helps you to experience culture from your own home and features all sorts of online content and activities including virtual tours such as the Leonardo da Vinci exhibition from The Royal Collection, which visited the city in 2019.
Conclusion
We hope we’ve been able to show that while things are different, there are still ways you can enjoy yourself and find those perfect items, albeit from your laptop. What’s better, is by doing so, not only are you making that time at home more enjoyable, but you’re doing a big thing in supporting our important independent businesses. Hitting purchase never felt so sweet!