The Good Beans Invisible Gift List

For the Foodie

Why not say it with food? Even the most discerning foodie will be impressed with a festive feast at Fat Macy’s social enterprise restaurant, Sohaila. If you can’t make the trip, their hampers are fantastic and they even sell gift vouchers. Or check out the hampers at Social Supermarket. They have a brilliant range of food and drink hampers at all price points and for all tastes.

For the Yogi

The post-Christmas gym is full of people working off their mince pies. Allow your giftee to have another serving safe in the knowledge they have a membership for Supply Yoga come January. The yoga studio also use their profits to fund classes for people with mental health issues or those suffering from a life-limiting illness.

For your biggest fan

Do you have a family member still proudly displaying that drawing of a horse you did when you were four? They’ll love a handmade gift, and it’s easier than you think. You could try a festive biscuit recipe, a Wool and the Gang crochet decoration or if you’re feeling especially ambitious, carve your own ring and have it set in silver or gold by Workbench London.

For the history nerd

Know someone who fancies themselves as a bit of a time traveller? Why not treat them to this pay-what-you-can guided tour of east London’s Ridley Road market? Or pick up some winter-warming pie and mash at a walking tour of London’s history.

For your favourite activist

The Women’s Environmental Network work both in east London and nationally to support women led, grass-root movements. Buying someone a membership gives them access to loads of cool female-focussed events and helps them continue their important work.

For the person that never stops

Life just seems to get busier, and it’s becoming increasingly hard to switch off. Why not give your mate the break they need by gifting them a subscription to meditation app Calm.

For the travel lover

Travel isn’t exactly easy right now, but when restrictions ease, the UK is going to be the hot ticket. To reduce car and plane journeys, Good Journey will help you get to the UK’s best attractions by train, bus, bike and on foot. And, you’ll get to enjoy discounts when you arrive car-free!

For the reader

A magazine subscription is the gift that keeps on giving, however most magazines are full of ads, trying to sell us more stuff we don’t need. Try Pioneers Post, Ethos Mag or Positive News for inspiring content about life and business.

For the entrepreneur

Anyone who’s ever started their own business (hello!) will know how hard those early days are. Crowdfunder offers a great platform for start-ups to get the investment they need to grow. Browse the many different projects on Crowdfunder and invest in a business that aligns with your buddy’s values.

For art lovers

If you live in London, there’s no shortage of galleries and exhibitions to delight anyone with a passion for art (once we’re out of lockdown…). Let your loved-one enjoy 240 museums, galleries and historic places for free or 50% off with the National Art Pass.

For the person who doesn’t like presents

Donate to a good cause on your recipient’s behalf. We like supporting the small, local charities who we work with like Wen and the Bromley by Bow Centre, who both exist to make life better for people in east London. If you’d rather give your money to a national cause, how about planting forest through Ecologi – air is for everyone after all.

Finally, if you absolutely HAVE to buy something physical, make sure it’s from someone good. Take a look at our updated Better Gift List.

Good Beans is an ethical marketing and communications agency working with social enterprises, charities and organisations that want to be better. Want to reach more people? Contact us.