Much has been made, in recent years, of the benefits of shopping local. Not only are you supporting home grown trade, but generally you’ll find products are higher in quality and as they’re not mass produced, purchases are far more unique, and thus perfect for treating either yourself or a loved one to something extra-special.

If however, you don’t have the time (or indeed the inclination) to spend your Saturday mornings trawling round craft fairs, or seeking out a nearby independent boutique, then Made By Hands Of Britain is the perfect solution. Founded by Gillian Montegrande just over a year ago, this beautiful website has on offer some of the finest items of British craftsmanship available exclusively online. Inspired by a love and appreciation of local skill and artistry, Gillian spotted a niche in the market that was yet to be filled. And so saw the birth of Made By Hands Of Britain which showcases over 190 of Britain’s finest craftsmen, all under one virtual roof. With an array of unique and inspiring items from confectionary to handwoven scarves and 18ct gold jewellery, there’s something to suit everyone, whatever your style or budget.

And while buying handmade gifts from this fabulous website supports local artisan communities, it also means you will be investing in pieces that will endure the test of time, unlike much of what is available on our high streets. One’s carbon footprint is drastically reduced and the seller’s eco-credentials are increasingly higher than large chains, due largely to the way in which they craft their items – by hand rather than by machine.

I particularly liked the Gift part of the website, which had a huge spectrum of offerings available. With sellers including Alexandra Abraham: Artist and Jewellery Designer, who sources her materials from the Thames Foreshore and forgotten rubbish tips, Lucy Alexandra Batt – whose handmade glass pieces are intricately carved and embellished with intimate floral or abstract patterns and Geoffrey Fisher – a Buckinghamshire-based designer who works exclusively in wood, there are some truly fabulous ideas for anyone who needs help with present buying.

So if, like us at The Amazing Blog, you're sick of Britain's copycat high streets, and want to support local trade, check out Made By Hands Of Britain and indulge in the very best of British craftmanship.

With the remaining five days between now and Christmas booked up with office parties, jovial drinks and Christmas shindigs a-plenty, never has it been more essential to add a bit of wow factor to your beauty regime. Forget the over-done smoky eyes and nude lips combo, steer clear of tan-line tide marks that have populated our TV screens throughout the duration of 2011 and indulge in one of the below beauty treats - sure to add a bit of je ne sais quoi to your festive finery!

If you're after a bit of fluttery flirting under the mistletoe make your eyes your best asset by dressing them up in the season’s ultimate beauty accessory: Nouveau Lashes' Ultimate Collection Mink Lashes. Made from 100% pure Mink, there is no other strip lash on the market that can promise the result of these bold but elegant lashes which are sure to give your eyes serious impact and intrigue.

Want a flashy and eye-catching nail colour for holiday parties and New Years but without the hassle of a manicure? Rebel Nails has come out with their 22 Carat Gold Nail Wraps which can be worn over natural, gel or acrylic nails of all shapes and sizes. With a self-adhesive, these foils are easily applied and are a long-lasting alternative to the smudging and chipping of traditional polish. Along with the 22 Carat Gold, Rebel Nails’ Line offers a variety of prints and colours, making these easy and sturdy nail applications a great option for any occasion. Nail set: £14.95.

Avoid the bubblegum-flavoured smellies that have become a Christmas tradition and are laden with as many additives as a stocking full of sweets this year by treating yourself or a loved one to a fusion of goodness from Rhodes to Heaven. Using only the best natural ingredients, their all natural collection makes a great Christmas gift for those that are conscious of what they put on their skin. All products offer easy beauty solutions by combining the benefits of multiple products into one and are perfect for women on the go. Wrapped in Rhodes to Heaven’s stylish little black Christmas gift bag, you can choose one or two of your favourite products in convenient travel sizes. Prices start at £12.

In the middle of winter when we are bundled up and in layers of bulky clothing and miles away from any kind of tan, our skin begins to look and feel less than glamorous. And with more and more people not wanting to use a chemical-based product to obtain a healthy-looking tan, Karora, one of Ireland's best-selling self-tanners, is now available in the UK, and is perfect for anyone after a bit of eco-chic. Their unique debut line offers an all-natural (and organic) alternative to the harsh ingredients in most fake tan products currently on the market. Lacking synthetic colourings, parabens, and the unpleasant scent of artificial fragrances, Karora self-tan products produce and beautiful and long-lasting colour. This season try Karora's wash off tan for an instant sunkissed glow without the chemicals!

And Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without adding a new fragrance to your collection. So brighten up any room with one of the lovely scents from Ineke’s sophisticated and unique selection. Owner and creator Ineke Ruhland is one of a small number of classically trained perfumists in the world and she works intimately in her studio to create her careful selected scents that feature notes of lilac, magnolia, poeny, and other inspirations from her botanical garden. Each scent comes in a beautiful bottle and lovely packaging that tells its story through pictures, artwork and small snippets of verse. Scents: £80. Ineke fragrances are available to purchase from Living In Store online here.