The clocks are about to turn back, chilly days are approaching, and Halloween is nigh.
Scary times all round then, and that's before thoughts turn to Christmas purchases. Eeek!
But the return of the Handmade & Vintage Fair (Oct 30 - Nov 1) is a super easy way to get your seasonal shopping all tied up in one easy trip.
And when you buy from some of the many stallholders who will be filling Middleton Hall in centre:mk with colour and cleverness, you’ll be supporting independent makers and buying unique.
Handmade & Vintage is a long established treasure trove of cherry-picked and individually invited exhibitors, who deliver the most original, high quality and affordable goods.
Those of you who celebrate All Hallows’ Eve will also be able to collect lots of last minute, original, spooky decorations to help you get your ghoul on.
If you are partial to new things fashioned from old things, Once I Was will deliver - their range of giftware, homeware and Christmas classics makes use of surplus and waste materials to deliver beautiful gifts.
Timber, oak, teak and pine are favourites and each and every piece is handcrafted.
Antiques from the South of France will be provided by Gascony Brocante, spanning atmospheric oil paintings to trinket boxes, and so much more in-between, to suit all pockets.
Handmade & Vintage has been bringing cool things to the heart of Milton Keynes for 16 years, during which time it has blossomed and is now one of the largest events of the type in the country - 130 stalls will be vying for attention this time.
Whether you want authentic vintage, jewellery, collectibles, accessories, gifts, original art or ephemera, you’ll be in a shopping paradise.
Many of the traders are also open to commissions, so let your imaginations run wild - they’ll create your most desired.
Looking for tasty stocking fillers, or perhaps just a cheeky nibble for yourself for that night in front of the television?
The Fat Mallow Co. will have the squishiest treats in the city, and though they almost look too good to eat, you’ll not be able to resist dreamy combinations including Funfetti, Triple Chocolate and Mango & Passionfruit Marshmallows.
Brits spend a pretty penny on their pets at Christmas, and Oooh Dog Coats! will have the perfect snug fit for your four-legged pal. Or maybe your pup would prefer a bandana?
They’ve many funky and fab prints, to suit all pooch personalities.
Tails will be wagging following a trip to their stall!
“This is the last event of the year, and our biggest,” said organiser Jen Reeves-North, “We can’t wait to welcome everyone. The festive fun starts here. Come along and let us take the strain, instead of Santa!
Handmade & Vintage will run Friday & Saturday (Oct 30 & 31), 9am-6pm and Sunday (November 1), 10.30am-5pm. Entry is free.
