Independent businesses are looking forward to making Christmas local in Norbiton and North Kingston this Saturday.
The Christmas shopping trail by Norbiton and North Kingston Traders Association will consist of independent businesses, pop-up crafters, music and trees.
The trail covers Coombe Road and Park Road and will be held from 10am to 3pm on 3 December.
Owner of Kingston Wild Flowers Jamila said: “Shopping locally, that is the most important part of it.”
She has owned the florists for 18 years and said that the past few years have been increasingly difficult because of economic challenges before the pandemic and a decline in footfall during the pandemic.
Most recently, she had to buy a new van for deliveries because of the expansion of ULEZ in the summer.
She took part in the trail last year and said: “It was very cold but it was very successful.”
She hopes to emulate the success of last year, but with better weather on Saturday.
The owner of Woofs a Daisy Jane said: “It is about the community and rustling up some business.
“It is very quiet at the moment.”
The pet shop is getting into the Christmas spirit and will have Father Christmas visiting on Saturday.
Customers can buy a £5 goody bag for a photo with Father Christmas, however Jane noted that this was for the dogs and not for the children.
Jane added: “The local councillors have been brilliant, really supportive.”
Councillors will be in attendance on Saturday, and attendees can ask marshals in hi-vis jackets to be directed to the councillors should they wish to speak with them.
Wined up here, on Coombe Road will also be taking part and will have spirit sampling to encourage people to come into the shop.
Charlotte, who has owned the shop for 16 years said that she saw an uptake in people shopping locally during the pandemic and wants this to continue.
“Shopping locally is not just for the pandemic.”
However, she recognised that she was asking people to pay more during a cost-of living crisis.
She said: “We are a step up from the supermarkets.”
She hoped the event would encourage more people through the doors of her shop which sells a large selection of wines, spirits as well as chocolates and pottery.
Shop local this Christmas & get into the festive spirit at next Saturday's (2 Dec) Norbiton & North Kingston Xmas fair. Enjoy hot snacks, music from local groups, pop-up stalls along Coombe & Park Roads, plus the chance for your dog to meet Santa! 🎅🎄🎁 pic.twitter.com/UZ6ojImMyh
— Sunflower Streets Residents' Association 🌻 (@SSRAKingston) November 25, 2023
