The hamper business does seem to have been getting rather stale of late - so it’s quite nice to hear about someone challenging the market.
That’s what Nicki Stewart has attempted do with her Diverse Hampers. After diversifying out of stationery Nicki decided to offer offer a fresh, high quality and stylish alternative to the traditional wicker basket filled with cheeses and ham. The company provides a collection of striking gifts in towers of boxes containing products from small, artisan producers in the UK. As a result Businesszone.co.uk awarded her the top spot in their new business award.
Our particular favourite is this delightful organic gift hamper.
Panelists judging the new business finalists at the presentation stage were Jonny Allatt, investment director at Zeus Private Equity, Modwenna Rees-Mogg, editor of Angel News, Samantha Fountain, founder of Shewee and Ben Heald, CEO at Sift.
Nicki adds: “Far from being accomplished in the art of presenting, I entered the competition with apprehension! However, I found the process of presenting to such an important audience an invaluable experience.”
The Rocky Balboa Bath Robe is a bit of fun. However, from a personal perspective it’s good to finally locate a bath robe that has a decent hood. Is it just me who can’t find a hooded bath robe?
You might even get a chuckle when you present this as a father’s day present! The Italian Stallion returns.....
Personally, I think it would make the perfect wedding present! 
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Teal is the hot new colour of the catwalks - “So why not use it in Kitchenware” thought Le Creuset.
It’s a little too loud for my tastes, but if you want high end kitchen products in a colour that will burn your retinas, then this could be for you!
Le Cresuset say:
“With interiors stylists and fashion designers dictating Teal as the big news for 2008 and beyond, why not update your kitchen wardrobe with a piece of Le Creuset Teal. Available in a variety of shapes in Cast Iron, Stoneware, and Silicone, the Le Creuset Teal Collection has a piece for everyone.”
The Le Creuset Teal Collection includes:
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With energy prices on the rise, we’re all going to be looking a little closer at conserving electricity. With that in mind the Kenwood Energy Sense Kettle offers the opportunity to shave upto 35% off your traditional kettle’s electricity consumption.
The design incorporates a lightweight body, wide angle spout for non drip pouring (a personal gripe of mine). A combination of the improved element and clear visibility can allow you to boil up the exact amount of water you require.
To add to the Kenwood Energy Sense Kettle’s green credentials - it’s packaged in recycled cardboard and a reusable cotton bag.
Not a bad gift for those looking to save energy and money.
Retails for £39.99 ($80 approx).
Probably one of the nicest gifts someone has given me is a personalised photobook. To my mind, it shows real thought and effort has gone into the gift.
There are a few operators out there who offer this service, but it was Cewe Photobook who recently came to my attention.
With free Cewe Photo World software a photobook can be ready in just 3 minutes. The software guides you through each step of the design process, after which the finished photobook will be delivered direct to your door. The photobooks come in 6 different cover types including faux leather; premium linen; hardback; and soft cover and 4 different sizes.
Prices range from £5.99 for a photo booklet up to £34.95 for a hard back XL photo book. You can also add comments in text and many different background styles and colours.
If you’re stuck for gift inspiration, a photobook could be the perfect answer. Check out Cewe Photobook for further information.
