Origin of Nativity Sets

A nativity set or scene is a depiction of the birth of Jesus as described in the gospels of Sts. Matthew and Luke.  Nativity scenes have figures representing the infant Jesus, his mother Mary and Joseph. They usually also include some or all of the following: Shepherds, the Magi (usually 3 although the number of Wise Men was never mentioned in the Bible), an Angel and also animalsi ncluding as a donkey, an ox and camels.


Nativity sets seem to have always been with us but Saint Francis of Assisi is credited with creating the first nativity scene in 1223 having been inspired by his visit to the Holy Land where he had been shown Jesus's traditional birthplace.
Distinctive nativity scenes and traditions have been created around the world and are displayed during the Christmas season in churches and homes. Many sets become family heirlooms and keepsakes and passed from one generation to the next. They are also a good visual aid to teach Chrisitian children the true meaning of Christimas.




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Fairtrade Suppliers

About our Fairtrade Producers

MKS (Madhya Kalikata Shilpangan), India

MKS works to promote quality products, provide good working conditions for artisans, encourage environment friendly technology and develop community based production. MKS is rejuvenating the dying Indian handicrafts to helping artisans develop their skills through training workshops, educational and medical facilities, financial aid for new equipment and long term interest free loans.   They produce great quality gifts that we are delighted to include on our website - some of their leather work is shown below.  

 

Novelty Russian Nesting Dolls

Great novelty sets, beautiful made, depicting the British Policeman, Beefeater, Guardsman and Post Box!


Each piece is very detailed and well painted.

4 piece sets in a hi-gloss finish and individually boxed.

Height of tallest doll - approximately 15 cms (6 inches).

(these sets are not suitable for young children due to small parts).

Personalised Music Box

A beautiful keepsake that can be personalised for all special occasions - Births, Christenings, Baptisms, Holy Communion, Confirmation, Birthdays etc..


This wooden musical box is available in 2 designs - (ladybirds or elephants) and is operated by a wind up mechanism on the base.

The ladybirds / elephants sit on top of the music box and spin around as the music is played. The ladybird box plays "Brother John" whilst the Elephants' tune is "Old Macdonald had a farm".

The personalisation is laser engraved on the top of the music box with the child's name, date and occasion.

Approximate size of music box: 11.5 cms wide and 5 cms deep

Personalised Jewellery Box

Always a favourite gift, this unique and beautiful wooden keepsake box can be personalised.

This white wooden trinket box is hinged and comes adorned with two cute fairies and flowers and can be personalised with a name spelt out in daisies (up to 15 letters).

It may be personalised further by selecting hair and dress colours for the fairies.

Approximate size of box is 17 x 19 x 10 cms.

Father's Day

Fathers' Day celebrates fatherhood, whilst also honouring and commemorating our fathers and forefathers.


The date of Fathers' Day differs throughout the world but in the UK it always falls on the third Sunday in June.
Celebratory activities are similar around the world - Fathers are given cards and gifts and treated to a day of family activities.

If you're stuck for gift ideas this Fathers' Day or would like to buy something a little bit different, please have a look at our Father's Day Gifts page.

BANK HOLIDAY DISCOUNT

BANK HOLIDAY DISCOUNT

15% OFF ALL RETAIL SALES OVER £20 *

(and we are still offering free UK delivery!)

Input promotional code BHS15 at checkout

New Product Lines include:

Personalised Musical Jewellery Boxes

Personalised First Holy Communion and Confirmation Gifts

Personalised Mugs

Larger Selection of Gift Bags

Embroidered and Sequined Wedding Bags

Russian Doll Clocks



(* Excludes gift vouchers and personalised items. Discount code available until Tuesday 8th May 2012)

Japanese Girl Trinket Box

Delightful Japanese girl themed trinket boxes available in 4 colours available.

Made from resin, each girl has her own personality.

Good size to add a gift or to hold necklaces, bracelets, earrings etc.

Approximate Size : 11 cms (height) x 7 cms (width).

Boxed separately.

See here for details.

Russian Doll Clocks

We have just added another range to our ever popular Russian Nesting Dolls Collection.
A pretty wall clock with a delightful Russian doll theme.


There are 3 designs available. They have a  wooden frame covered with a colourful fabric.
Powered by 1 x AA battery (supplied).

Size: 20 x 20 x 4 cms


See here for further details.

Thinking About Weddings

We have just receive a new line in delightful ivory bags which we think would be perfect for Brides and Bridemaids or as table gifts.
The gift pouches are ivory coloured and made from Chinese silk. There are 2 designs available - gold sequins arranged in a flower design or embroidered rosebuds in a delicate orange and pink.

The bags are fully lined inside and have pretty white silk drawstring pulls, carrying handles and finished with a white silk edging around the bag.

There is a deep gusset of 7 cms allowing plenty of room internally for gifts.
Overall size (when flat) 19 cms (w) x 20 cms (l) x 7 cms (d).

See here for futher details