From the very first Harrogate Christmas Market, organisers wanted it to stand out from similar events. They decided to give it a predominantly Yorkshire flavour by giving priority to Yorkshire-based traders and products. Not everything sold at HCM is made locally however, as the organisers appreciate that quality-made, Fair Trade gifts can provide a valuable source of income for workers in third-world countries. But it’s not just about the wares; here are a few insights into some of the traders at #HCM18. Follow the heading links to find out more.

Little Loaves

Harriet Docker (header photo) dreamt up the idea of producing beautifully crafted mini cakes after countless trips to the supermarket fuelled by pregnancy sweet cravings. One sleepless night, she realised she could produce better quality cakes that were just the right size for one – and Little Loaves was born. Award-winning Little Loaves are small (additive free), and made with fresh, UK-sourced produce (where possible), and free-range British eggs. There are dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan options too. Harriet is a trained patisserie chef with ten-year’s experience, including six years as a specialist cake decorator with Board to Tiers in Leeds. You’ll find Little Loaves in the Food & Drink marquee.

Fwootpot Ceramics

Julie Morris is crazy about clay, but rather than hand-crafting unexceptional studio ceramics that blend into the background, she creates statement sculptures and object d’art (many incorporating faces) that don’t belong in the shadows! Based in Hull, Julie produces more recognisable items such as coasters and decorations alongside her more unconventional pieces. Julie will be selling her fabulous creations in our Craft & Gift marquee.

Black Yak

‘Fair Trade’ is the foundation upon which Black Yak was built. They buy only honestly, fairly, and ethically-produced clothing and crafts from around the world, and are recognised by BAFTS, The British Association for Fair Trade Shops and Suppliers. Rupert Harrison and his team work closely to ensure that their suppliers earn an honest wage throughout the whole year, have safe and pleasant working conditions, and that they’re able to look forward to a better future. While recently visiting Black Yak’s skilled artisans and their families in Nepal, Rupert completed the gruelling Annapurna circuit in 14 days. It’s important for the company to know that their producers are doing well; every purchase is helping one of the most disadvantaged countries in the world to support their families.

Paloule

Spaghetti scarf designer Pam Summersall attended Hartlepool College of Art in the 1970s, but it wasn’t until she took redundancy from her career in the airline industry that Pam followed her dream of setting up a business selling her hand-crafted Spaghetti Scarves. Suitable for all age groups of women, men and children, the scarves are cool in summer and warm in winter, as they’re made from 100% washable jersey cotton. The scarves, which are available in two lengths, are produced with or without beads using seasonal colour pallets. The versatile longer scarf can be worn in a variety of ways. Paloule will be located at Y18.

Tomoto

With the help of his cat Moto, Tom Chadwick founded TOMOTO – a sustainable clothing brand based in Leeds. Tom takes inspiration from music, art, and global cultures. He creates the designs digitally, then silk-screen prints them onto viscose bamboo and organic cotton blend T-shirts in limited numbers. One of Tom’s favourite hoodie designs entitled ‘Cranes’ is inspired by an old Japanese legend that says anyone who makes a thousand paper cranes will be granted a wish by the gods. No doubt he’ll sell out of that one! Garments are sourced from ethically accredited suppliers paying a fair wage. The cool packaging takes the shape of a 12” record sleeve and is made from 100% recycled card (with no nasty plastic). Every garment is printed, die-cut, and assembled in Leeds. See Tomoto’s range at R9.

All’s Fair

Based in Selby, All’s Fair sell fair trade crafts, gifts, and fashion, and will be selling incredibly special decorations at HCM18. Each decoration has been hand carved from olive wood by Palestinian artisans who live and work in Bethlehem. The artisans’ families have been farming olive trees for generations, and when the trees are pruned every year, the wood from the discarded branches is used to create crafts to generate a second income. You can display a little piece of Bethlehem in your home for Christmas. Joanna Pollard from All’s Fair will be located at stall P18.

Steve Antoniou (Steve’s Hats) 

It’s not difficult to spot Steve’s stall at L10/11, as it’s always full of people browsing through his reasonably-priced hats, socks, scarves, and throws. Steve has been an avid supporter of HCM since the beginning, and visitors appreciate his relaxed attitude, genuine smile, and friendly banter. His accessories are ideal for people on a budget.

These seven traders represent just a small fraction of the fantastic stalls you can expect to see at Harrogate Christmas Market 2018.

Author: Susan Scarre, Adrenaline Content Marketing, on behalf of Harrogate Christmas Market