Christmas is all wrapped up in Ballarat

THE season of giving is upon us and for those who are looking for something for a mum, grandmother or special figure in their lives need look no further than local Ballarat businesses.

The women behind Saltbush kitchen, Windflower and BouChic are offering a beautiful and eclectic range of gifts which are bound to show that special someone how much you care about them.

Food and art business Saltbush Kitchen is led by Brigid Corcoran and has a plethora of Christmas packs, perfect for a foodie or a home cook.

Saltbush recently moved to a new location at Urquhart Street in Ballarat Central and visitors will find unique spices and salts created by local makers which explore connection to Australia.

“Saltbush kitchen is very much Australian gift giving for Christmas but also an Australian foodie Christmas,” said Ms Cororan.

“We’ve got a curated gift box selection which is completely shaped around different styles of cooks so it’s easy gift giving.”

Australian bush elements are important to Ms Cororan who said it is crucial we recognise our history.

“It’s who we are, food is such a great way to dive deeper into out identities as Australians,” she said.

“Having that influence of the first nations people is really important and I love that.”

Only minutes away inside the Unicorn, shoppers can find Windflower, a locally owned florist with a difference.

Owner, Kristy Tippett, said sourcing locally grown and in season Australian flowers is what sets her business apart, making it the perfect place to visit when gift shopping.

“We are sort of pushing the boundaries to what a traditional florist shop would be,” she said.

“The idea is that all of our flowers are Australian grown or locally grown when possible and in season.”

The store also features a range of homewares, accessories, art and candles which reflect seasonal changes.

Ms Tippett said a bunch of local flowers is the perfect gift for a special mum or grandmother.

“I think purchasing gifts that have that sort of a meaning and background behind it is something that people value a lot,” she said.

“Flowers can be really nostalgic and when they’re really thought out can feel incredibly personal.”

For the special people in our lives who may be more fashion focused, BouChic has a carefully curated selection of clothing, accessories, and homewares along with exceptional customer service.

“I always want my customers to feel very welcomed when they walk in the shop almost like I’ve personally given them a hug,” said owner Stacey Burton.

“We know many customers like to have a browse, but we let them know we are around to help them.”

Candles, scrunchies, shower steamers and jewellery are some of Ms Burtons top picks for Christmas presents this year.

Customers can also have their gifts wrapped or put together into a hamper.

“We can create a hamper if someone gives us a price range and they give us an idea of who the person is, or we can help the customer pick the gifts for the hamper.”