MÈLISSES 2020 GIFT GUIDE
Christmas time is upon us and if you’re like us, you must be thinking cosy nights by the fireplace, candles and decorations all over, crunchy cookies with warm drinks, lots of time with loved ones, and of course some gifts too!
We would like to take this opportunity to remind you that a gift can have many forms and that there is no one better than the other one. One of the ideas could be a curated and unforgettable gift of experiencing real Andros while immersing in a cooking workshop with us at Mèlisses.
There are still a few spots available for 2021 so head over to our Workshops section to find out more!
We have also selected 10 inspiring small entrepreneurs representing Greece and its heritage. Some of the products we personally use at Mèlisses or are wishing for, whilst the others deserve to be known too and we are delighted to spread a word about them!
2020 has been especially challenging for most of us and as a small-scale business ourselves we truly felt that too. We are happy to support one another while kindly reminding you that when buying from these brands, you’re supporting unique Greek makers.
In no particular order, here is our selection of 10 favourites!
STARTING WITH HIGH-QUALITY BASICS!
Safe to say, olive oil is the most essential part of Mediterranean cuisine! This sophisticated and elegant bottle from Oracle Oil not only tastes extra delicious but will also compliment your kitchen counter!
FOR DRESSED-UP DINNERS AT HOME…
‘Staying in but staying comfy and stylish!’ That’s the spirit of Milk & Honey for the upcoming festive season and their feminine clothing line.
JOYS FOR THE LITTLE ONES…
Handmade, safe and encouraging play - that’s our tip for a merry gift for the children. Each piece is uniquely crafted by a couple who turned designers unexpectedly!
FOR AVID HOME COOKS…
We suggest the beautifully executed cookbook - Aegean by Marianna Leivaditaki. Filled with her Cretan heritage and a unique approach to traditional island recipes, it’ll provide some serious post-holiday Greek blues!
FOR A SERIOUS TEA ENTHUSIAST…
The organic Christmas blend by sustainably conscious brand Rhoeco combines everything that’s Christmassy in a cup of hot soothing beverage. Their ‘drink it-plant it’ concept is just too good!
A BIT OF GREECE…
On your plate or in your glass, anything Greek is always a good idea! Odysea products are our trusted choice whether we fancy some delicious condiments, raw honey or a saganaki cheese! P.S. carob molasses in espresso martini is a thing!
DEVOTED HOME DECOR FANATICS…
Might enjoy a thing or two made of the Naxian raw marble. Each object is handmade with its own personality. Uniqueness and craftmanship don’t get better than this!
BEAUTY WITHIN!
For those seeking extra pampering for the skin, the natural cosmetics from Korres might do the trick to bring some more inner and outer delight to your days at home.
VERMOUTH ON THE ROCKS…
Our absolute favourite drink whether as a pre-dinner aperitivo or a post-dinner liquid dessert! This one from Otto’s got it all - sweetness, tanginess and just the right amount of spicy kick!
FULL OF FLAVOUR!
Cooking and seasoning undoubtedly go hand and hand. So well in fact, that it’s hard to imagine one without the other. Our preferred choice are organic herbs and spices from Daphnis and Chloe sourced ethically from small farmers.
*Please note that these are in no way sponsored features but rather genuine support of entrepreneurs we like, work with, and admire.
We hope we have brought a little bit of inspiration and awareness of these amazing crafted brands for your Christmas. Happy preps!
Is there an artisan or brand that you personally love? Let us know, we would love to hear about your ideas and creatives out there that shouldn’t go unnoticed!
With lots of love & virtual hugs,
Allegra and Veronika
Words by Allegra Pomilio and Veronika Krizova