24 Sustainable Secret Santa Ideas For Your Workplace Or Family Gathering

24 Sustainable Secret Santa Ideas For Your Workplace Or Family Gathering

December is here and you want to make it one to remember, right? Sometimes it’s as simple as finding the perfect gifts from friends, family and co-workers. While finding a great Secret Santa gift can be a challenge, this year, we encourage you to make a sustainable and thoughtful choice. Your Kris Kringle exchange is an excellent opportunity to show your care for both the recipient and the planet. Here, we present 24 sustainable Secret Santa gifts that will make this Christmas extra special (and level up your gift-giving skills!).

TL;DR: The Complete List of Sustainable Secret Santa Ideas

We all want to be that bit more eco-friendly when it comes to Christmas gifts, and it’s really not as hard as you think to get something valuable and sustainable (oooh!).

This complete list of Secret Santa gift ideas cover:

  • Fun Experiences like a paint & sip session at Pinot & Picasso.
  • Edibles & Drinkables. Natural and organic foods, of course! Not the edibles you’re thinking…
  • Reusable items that will be used beyond Christmas Day.
  • Plants for the house and garden to breathe life into your home.
  • Organic cosmetics and sustainable apparel for the fashion icons. 
  • Gifts that make a big impact (good for you!).
  • Eco-friendly dog gifts for the dog mums or soon-to-be dog parents.

Here are the 24 sustainable gift ideas for every kind of Secret Santa.

 

Experiences:

Pinot & Picasso Gift Card

Treat that special someone to a not-so Silent Night at the new paint & sip experience that has hit the UK. We’re talking about Pinot & Picasso (us!). With sip & paint studios in Shoreditch, Brighton and Liverpool, you can buy your Secret Santa an e-gift card that not only gives them a great night out, but the gift card goes straight to their inbox, so you can even buy it on Christmas Eve.

Prices range from £20 to £120, meaning you can choose whatever amount you see fit for your Secret Santa recipient. Either way, they’ll love you for it, trust us.

Movies

A golden oldie gift that is always a great choice for your Secret Santa gifts is a gift voucher to the cinemas. Whether it’s for an office movie buff or for the young ones, there’s always plenty of entertaining films showing all year round at some of the UK’s major and independent cinemas.

Comedy Show

There’s no better gift than laughter, right?! Explore comedy show tickets to find the perfect performance that will tickle your Secret Santa’s funny bone. (Pierre doesn’t do stand-up comedy unfortunately).

Sporting Event

Make your Kris Kringle a part of the action with tickets to a live sporting event. Whether it’s tickets or a voucher, they’ll love that you remembered their favourite football team enough to get them to a game.

24 Sustainable Secret Santa Ideas For Your Workplace Or Family Gathering

Edibles & Drinkables:

Raw and Organic Chocolate

Tired of the same old chocolates and desserts? Treat your eco friendly Secret Santa to delicious and healthy chocolate treats that will leave them feeling fantastic this festive season. Not only can they snack on this treat, they can even use it in a recipe.

Urban Greens

For friends with less-than-green thumbs, consider eco-friendly presents that allow you to grow and enjoy your own produce with help from the natural world. Choose from sprout jars, garden starter kits, or seed balls to kickstart the new year, new you vibe they are going for.

Grow Your Own Tea

Surprise your Secret Santa recipient with a Grow Your Own Tea Kit, featuring flavours like peppermint and chamomile. It’s a delightful addition to any office Christmas celebration and they may even create a tea bag just for you as a thank you.

24 Sustainable Secret Santa Ideas For Your Workplace Or Family Gathering

Homemade Granola

Handmade and delicious, homemade granola is a thoughtful gift that suits all ages and dietary preferences. This Secret Santa gift idea can be vegan friendly too.

Gluten-Free Food

Help your Secret Santa start 2023 on a healthier note with gluten-free food. Whether handmade with love or store-bought, gluten-free treats are a delightful festive surprise.

 

Reusable Items:

Bento-Style Lunch Boxes

They are all over TikTok for a good reason. Upgrade your Secret Santa’s lunch game with Bento-style lunch boxes. These dishwasher-safe boxes are perfect for packing tasty meals for work, a picnic or any other day out. With a range of sizes and styles, level up their lunch game with this fun shop.

Stainless Steel Water Bottles

Again, TikTok has made these plastic free gifts a trend in all gift giving guides. Say goodbye to plastic bottles and hello to ethical living with stainless steel water bottles. They’re suitable for water, coffee, beer, wine, and even food. Yes, you read wine and yes, that might be what’s in mine!

24 Sustainable Secret Santa Ideas For Your Workplace Or Family Gathering

Reusable Coffee Cups

Encourage sustainable habits with a stylish and eco-friendly coffee cup. Available in various colours, designs, and sizes, it’s a perfect match for your Secret Santa who loves multiple caffeine hits in a day.

Folding Fabric Shopping Bags

Make grocery shopping eco-friendly and fun with funky fabric shopping bags. Enjoy guilt-free, plastic-free shopping every time with a tote bag that’s good for the planet and reusable.

Metal Straws

Save the environment one sip at a time with metal straws. Plastic straws are out, so why not make an ethical purchase for your Secret Santa – plus it’s easy for wrapping.

Reusable Bags

Bid farewell to disposable plastic bags and give the gift of reusable bags. With a multitude of designs and patterns, they’re perfect sustainable presents for all your friends.

 

Plants:

Pot Plants

Explore a collection of pots and plants to find the perfect eco friendly Secret Santa gift. Help them create their own green oasis with a plant in your living room, kitchen, bedroom – their indoor jungle could be started with your great gift.

24 Sustainable Secret Santa Ideas For Your Workplace Or Family Gathering

Organic Cosmetics:

Coconut Oil

Give the gift of radiant skin with organic coconut oil. This product was created to replenish skin for a youthful radiance and glow. Who knew you could turn back time?

Ethical Beauty

From vegan lip balm to your favourite cosmetics, choose ethically made products with eco-friendly packaging for your beauty-loving Secret Santa. There are now so many beauty brands doing good for the environment making it easier for you to give sustainable Secret Santa gifts to your girlfriends.

 

Gifts That Make an Impact:

Bee Saver Kit

Spread the joy of saving bees with a Bee Saver Kit. It includes wildflower seeds, guides, and planners to inspire your recipient to contribute to bee conservation. Highly recommend starting your kit when watching the Bee Movie.

Conscious Step Socks

Support a charity this Christmas with socks that represent different causes, allowing your Secret Santa to do a good deed while staying cosy, especially with this winter weather, you can never have too many socks.

 

Eco-Friendly Dog Gifts:

Dog Shampoo

Ensure the puppies are getting the love this Christmas with natural or organic dog shampoos that will leave them feel as fluffy and adorable as ever. We know the dogs at the dog park will be jealous.

24 Sustainable Secret Santa Ideas For Your Workplace Or Family Gathering

Compostable Waste Bags

Say no to wasteful plastics and opt for eco-friendly compostable waste bags to help reduce waste this holiday season, including waste from your furry friends.

 

Sustainable Apparel:

Sustainable Clothing

Ditch fast fashion and opt for sustainable clothing this Christmas. Choose ethical clothing options that make for a stylish and environmentally friendly gift. Whether it’s a voucher for a local shop that your receiver can visit in person or for online shopping, they’ll enjoy their retail therapy regardless.

Eco Babywear

Being stylish can start from the little bundles of joy too! If there’s a little one joining the family this Christmas or your office co-worker is heading to maternity leave, consider eco babywear as a Secret Santa gift idea. They’ll be happy that they didn’t have to get it themselves.

With these potential Secret Santa gifts, you can make this holiday season more eco-friendly and thoughtful than ever. Whether you choose arty experiences like Pinot & Picasso or more sustainable presents like reusable coffee cups, your Secret Santa is sure to appreciate the care and consideration behind your choice.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What can I say instead of Secret Santa?

The most common term that is used is “Kris Kringle.” But we do like the sound of Secret Santa better.

What’s a good Secret Santa budget?

Secret Santa gifts typically have a low price cap, often around £10–£15 per gift. However, it’s essential to plan for this in your Christmas budget. If you’re on a tight budget, consider homemade gifts or thoughtful gestures like offering to babysit.

How can I be more sustainable around Christmas?

To be more sustainable during the festive season, consider the materials used in gifts, opt for experiences, food, or decorations as gifts, and look for brands that offer e-gift guides and vouchers to reduce waste and promote eco-friendly practices.

Keep in mind materials like recycled or certified sustainable wood and paper and avoid single-use plastics. Choose organic-certified food and clothing when possible. Got that all down? Good luck with your shopping – we know you’ll find the perfect gift! 

A Guide to Street Art in Shoreditch

Hey there, urban explorers! Ready to dive into the vibrant world of street art in Shoreditch? Get ready for a graffiti-packed adventure that will leave you in awe. From mind-blowing murals to hidden gems down every alleyway, Shoreditch is a street art paradise waiting to be explored.

So, grab your walking shoes, your sense of adventure, and get ready to discover the colourful world of Shoreditch street art. From breathtaking murals to hidden treasures, every corner of Shoreditch has a story to tell, and it’s waiting for you to explore.

Shoreditch Street Art Map:

Your perfect Shoreditch street art trail map is here!

Check it out below and get ready to embark on a visual treasure hunt. With so many masterpieces waiting to be discovered, you’ll want to make sure you’ve got your walking shoes on and your camera fully charged.

Top Graffiti Streets in Shoreditch:

1. Fashion Street

If you’re all about up and coming artists, Fashion Street is your destination, showcasing some of the best new talent on the block. Keep an eye out for the signature style of the talented Mr. Cenz – his work will blow your mind and your Insta feed.

2. Sclater Street

Walking down Sclater Street is like stepping into a world where the walls come alive. The whole street is like an art gallery, showcasing the true spirit of Shoreditch with almost every corner covered in tags, collages and paintings in an overwhelming variety of styles.

3. Chance Street

Looking for the biggest murals in town? Look no further than Chance Street. You’ll feel like you’re walking through a giant rainbow canvas as you take in the massive works of art. A star of the show is Drench street artist Nerone’s giant mural bursting with colourful dreamlike flowers.

4. Grimsby Street

Grimsby Street is where the street art scene truly thrives. Every wall tells a story, and you’ll find yourself lost in the tales painted across these walls. The Great Wall of Grimsby, which can be found on the Needham’s Butchers building in Garibaldi Street, is home to a magnificent mural depicting much loved scenes in Grimsby.

5. Great Eastern Street

The vibrant energy of Great Eastern Street is mirrored in its eclectic street art. Every stroke and colour reflects the heartbeat of East London.

6. Pedley Street

Looking for a quieter street to immerse yourself in art? Pedley Street is your sanctuary – a place to let the creativity of the walls take centre stage. This spot is one not to miss, hosting a range of ever changing, diverse, totally blow your mind pieces.

7. Holywell Lane

Home to some seriously talented graffiti artists, Holywell Lane is a visual delight waiting to be explored. ‘Distraction, Destruction and Power Tools’ by the artist Fanakapan is located here and it’s a mega shiny, futuristic and thought provoking piece you will want to check off your street art tick list.

8. Redchurch Street

Redchurch Street is like a runway for street artists. Every inch of the walls showcases the talent and creativity of local artists. Get ready to go on an animalistic journey when you spot some of artist Malarky’s trademark characters or David Speed’s cute as a button ‘Red Dog’.

9. Shoreditch High Street Station

This station isn’t just a transit point – it’s a street art guide all on its own. You’ll find yourself lost in a tunnel of colours and creativity.

10. Whitby Street

Whitby Street is a canvas that tells stories. It might be on the smaller side, but this one reigns supreme featuring intricate details and bold statements, each piece of art has its own unique tale to tell. If you have a thing for French Pointillism, look out for Jimmy C’s striking portrait made from thousands of daubs of paint.

11. Old Truman Brewery

The Old Truman Brewery is a melting pot of creativity, and its walls are a canvas for artists from all around the world. The art here is as diverse as the city itself. You can literally walk all over Stella Artois’ smart street art of geometric shapes and contrasting colours, originally to help visitors safely social distance without the need for physical barriers.

12. Brick Lane

If you want to discover London’s best street art in one place, Brick Lane is your go to destination with a new piece around every corner, even adorning the bins! The walls of Brick Lane hold stories that span generations and cultures. The murals here are iconic, and the French artist’s pieces add a touch of International flair to the East London scene. Look out for French artist Zabou who has been infusing her prolific pieces around London since 2012. Don’t miss meandering down its alleyways and the little squares that shoot off of it – you might find some pretty supreme work by Banksy Fanakapan, and Mr Cenz.

13. Princelet Street

Talented artists have left their mark on Princelet Street, turning it into an open-air gallery that celebrates creativity in all its forms.

14. Hanbury Street

When it comes to street art, Hanbury Street isn’t holding back. There’s so much art here that you’ll feel like you’re walking through a visual wonderland. Look out for Belgian street artist Roa’s stunning crane perched on the side wall of the local Indian restaurant, next to some seriously dynamic break dancer art.

15. King John Court

Graffiti art takes centre stage at King John Court. This is where you’ll find the biggest street art mural both in Shoreditch and the UK. Each piece is a glimpse into the artist’s imagination, waiting to be interpreted by your own creativity.

16. Ebor Street

Looking for large-scale murals that will leave you speechless? Ebor Street is where you’ll find these monumental works of art that dominate the landscape thanks to its very large and long wall. You can’t miss Ben Eine’s 45 metre long ‘Love, Love, Love’ art written in various typefaces. A simple message that Eine hopes will bring those who see it a little bit of happiness.

17. New Inn Yard

Inn Yard is a goldmine for those looking to find street art that’s off the beaten path. Get ready to be amazed by the creativity that flows through these walls.

18. Allen Gardens

Even the gardens of Shoreditch are in on the street art action. Allen Gardens is a hidden gem where art and nature come together in perfect harmony. This small park is a green space infused with some of the most dynamic street art in Shoreditch.

19. Shoreditch Graffiti Wall at Seven Stars Yard

Further along Brick Lane, you’ll find one of the most talked about Shoreditch streets, the Seven Stars Yard (aka Shoreditch graffiti wall). This area is a giant canvas that’s never the same, with artists constantly breathing new life into the space, making it a dynamic showcase of creativity. This pub’s car park has well and truly established itself as one of the most supreme street art spots in London with the walls having featured the best of the best of international street art talent including this mural by iconic London artist Sweet Toof.

Other Ways to Experience Shoreditch Street Art Culture:

Go on a Shoreditch street art tour:

Want to dive deeper into the Shoreditch street art scene? Join a Shoreditch street art tour and let the guides take you on a journey through the city’s creative heart. Discover hidden gems, learn about the stories behind the art, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture that makes Shoreditch a street art haven.

Attend a paint and sip session:

Looking to master the art of fun? Join one of our paint and sip sessions and let your inner artist shine. No experience required – just a willingness to have a great time, create some art, and sip on your favourite drinks. It’s a casual and fun way to connect with friends and embrace your artistic side.

Keep an eye out for street art events:

Shoreditch is a hub of creativity, and there’s always something exciting happening. Keep your eyes peeled for street art events, exhibitions, and live art sessions. You never know when you might stumble upon an artist in action, turning a blank wall into a masterpiece.

Explore the Different Functions Offered by Pinot & Picasso’s Here!

Ready to explore more ways to experience creativity and art? Check out the variety of functions offered by Pinot & Picasso. Whether you’re planning a team-building event, celebrating a special occasion, or just looking for a unique way to spend your day, we’ve got you covered.

Our First UK Studio is Coming to Shoreditch

First Pinot and Picasso UK Studio

OMG it’s happening!

We’re chuffed to announce our FIRST Pinot & Picasso studio in the UK is coming to Shoreditch, London. Our opening weekend kicks off from Friday, July 28th where we’ll be bringing GREAT TIMES through CREATIVITY. 

We’re launching with a variety of our best artworks that are perfect for all abilities because no talent necessary. From iconic destinations to famous figures, you’ll get arty while you party with these sessions all while enjoying a bevvy or two from our in-studio bar.

The art doesn’t stop there. We’ll be turning the lights off and turning the party on with our Neon Nights experience. Neon Nights is our paint and sip experience where your masterpiece glows under UV lights – it’ll have you going ‘ooh’ and ‘ahh’. 

Our first round of public sip and paint sessions will start from Friday, August 4th. Lucky for you, tickets are now available so tell your friends, family, partner, barista, bartender, neighbours, and be among the first to paint and sip with us in Shoreditch!

12 Fun Things To Do In Shoreditch (London)

Things to do in Shoreditch

12 Fun Things To Do In Shoreditch (London)

Whether you’re visiting London or live in the area, Shoreditch is one of the most hip and happening places in East London. With Shoreditch street art near Brick Lane, street food eats and plenty of shopping close by, Shoreditch is quickly becoming the place to be for young professionals in London.

With that being said, here are 12 fun things to do in Shoreditch with your friends, partner, parents or even just yourself.

1. Visit the Columbia Road Flower Market

Columbia Road Flower Market sees the regular street transformed to a colourful, floral strip every Sunday. The Columbia Road Flower Market isn’t just limited to sunflowers and roses – anything from plants for your bedroom to a tree in your backyard can be purchased from local vendors.

This popular activity occurs every Sunday from 10am to 3pm so it can be a blissful start to your day or the perfect way to  round out the afternoon. Pick up some new florals for you to take home or to gift to someone special. The Columbia Road Flower market may be the main attraction on Sunday, but there are also some cute retail shops on Columbia Road where you can browse for antiques, artworks or stop for a food and drink break.

Columbia Road Flower Market

2. Visit the Museum of the Home

The Museum of the Home will have you rethinking the way we live and what home means to you. Its displays and galleries represent many diverse cultures, their domestic life, and the relationships people have to their home.

Major perk of this museum? It’s free and you don’t need to book! Talk about saving AND learning – a two-for-one bargain.

3. Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium

Not only is Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium London’s first cat cafe, it’s also one of the most fun things to do in Shoreditch. Take a break from your worries in a relaxing environment enjoying a fine, hot British cuppa while petting and playing with some cats or start your night surrounded by cats sipping on a feline-themed cocktail.

This unique cafe is a short walk from Brick Lane, Spitalfields Market and the Columbia Road Flower Market, so you can make this snazzy cat cafe a stop along the way.

4. Truman Brewery

London’s largest brewery, the Truman Brewery, has been an iconic landmark in Brick Lane for over twenty years. This estate is home to many bars, clubs and restaurants in the Shoreditch area including All Star Lanes, DF Tacos and Ninety One Living Room. They often have live music events and street food stalls at old Truman Brewery. You can also enjoy window-browsing independent shops like the Brick Lane Vintage Market.

Brick Lane Shoreditch

5. Visit Brick Lane

The most hip and vibrant alley in the whole of Shoreditch is Brick Lane. With street art, many-a flea market and street food, Brick Lane is a popular destination among locals and tourists alike. Visitors can gaze at the street art while stopping for a food break at one of the many curry houses or Beigel Bake.

A must-see place has to be the Brick Lane Vintage Market in Truman Brewery. From fur coats to vinyl records, it’s a vintage heaven! There are plenty of exciting discoveries and hidden gems to be found.

6. Hoxton Square

Enjoy the greenery and fresh air in Hackney’s Hoxton Square. Hoxton Square is surrounded by bars and restaurants and is classed as the ‘beating heart of the Hoxton art scene’.

This green space is a short walk away from Shoreditch venues including the rooftop bar Queen of Hoxton.

7. Go on a night out and experience Shoreditch’s nightlife

One of the most fun things to do in Shoreditch also includes experience the vibing nightlife in Shoreditch. From Old Street to Shoreditch High Street, the streets are lined with clubs and bars that know how to get the party started in East London, and restaurants serving great food at all hours.

Enjoy some fun and games with crazy golf, shuffle clubs and darts clubs before hitting the bars around Shoreditch. Some of our top recommendations for hitting the town in Shoreditch include rooftop bar Queen of Hoxton, cocktail bar Callooh Callay and the pumping dance floors of Simmons.

No matter where you go in Shoreditch, you can always have a fun night out with your friends by your side.

Shoreditch Nightlife

8. Attend a paint and sip session

Enjoy a little healthy competition among friends with a paint and sip session at Pinot & Picasso Shoreditch. Among many creative businesses, Pinot & Picasso Shoreditch brings art aficionados and novices together to sip, dip, splash, slosh. Best thing? There’s no talent necessary when it comes to having fun.

A local artist will guide you through an artwork step-by-step so you walk away with a masterpiece to show off and hang up at home. With these paint and sip sessions in Shoreditch London, it’s the perfect activity for your next girls night out, date night, after work event or private party.

Prices start from £30 per Picasso. A great time is free.

9. Old Spitalfields Market

Shoreditch is a melting pot of creatives and Old Spitalfields Market brings local artisans into the spotlight. As the first East London Market Place, Old Spitafields Market is one of the fun things to do in Shoreditch for find hidden gems in vintage shops and support local producers.

Open every day, this market place is visited by vintage shopping enthusiasts and lovers of street food stalls. The stores at Old Spitalfields Market also host many events during the week and up to 200 events across the year.

Old Spitalfields Market

10. Hackney City Farm

Farming in the city? You bet. Hackney City Farm brings children and grown-ups together to get up close and personal with farm animals like pigs, donkeys, sheep and more. Hackney City Farm also offers educational farming workshops for all ages.

In addition to learning all about agriculture, you can get your hands dirty with pottery classes and woodworking. This hard work making you hungry? There’s an Italian cafe for you to enjoy a nice feed before leaving.

11. Visit BOXPARK

Next to Shoreditch High Street station and walking distance from Brick Lane is BOXPARK, the world’s first pop-up shopping mall. Since 2011, this venue, constructed out of shipping containers, has become a staple of the East London scene.

Not only is BOXPARK Shoreditch known for its unique shopping and food vendors, they also host a variety of events. From live music & DJS to markets and comedy nights, there is something for all East Londeners – even paint and sip classes.

BOXPARK Shoreditch

12. Visit an Art Gallery

While Shoreditch’s street art is worth its own walking tour, there are plenty of art galleries to visit in the area including Rich Mix in Bethnal Green and Kimistry Gallery in Shoreditch.

Where is Shoreditch Located?

Shoreditch is one of London’s most vibrant areas with street art, food markets, vintage shopping, and a vivid nightlife. Shoreditch is located in East London in the Hackney and Tower Hamlets boroughs.

How can I get to Shoreditch?

Visiting Shoreditch is very easy thanks to public transport. Buses run regularly along Shoreditch High Street from all directions. If you’re coming from out of the area, Liverpool Street station,Old Street Underground station and Shoreditch High Street station are walking distance from the main streets of Shoreditch.

Book a Paint and Sip Session with Pinot & Picasso Today!

If you want to have a great time in Shoreditch, a paint and sip session with Pinot & Picasso is the way to go. Paint along with a helpful instructor with a glass of Prosecco in hand and unleash that artistic flair you’ve always possessed.

Get your gang together and book a session today at our Shoreditch studio.

Pinot & Picasso
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