On Indie & Pop, I strive to highlight my edit of the best in independents as well as the more popular retailers. For me, these businesses keep the British High Street interesting, vibrant & diverse whilst rarely being matched by the bigger players when it comes to Customer Service & community. 

It may often seem easier or more convenient to visit the larger chain stores, precincts or supermarkets (not to mention parking & public transport issues; I’m a resident of the nightmare that is the A14 area) but every single purchase really does make a difference to where you live. According to IndieRetail.org : ‘For every £1 spent with a local, independent business, between 50p-70p circulates back into that local economy. Shopping online or in corporate, out of town retailers only generates around 5p back into the local community’. I found that stat quite startling & its something that lingers in my conscience.

This week (1-9th October) is ‘Independents’ Week’, a national annual initiative promoting indies, which in Cambridge is organised by Cambridge BID & supported by Cambridge Edition. It’s a great opportunity to take advantage of discounts & promotions whilst exploring the City’s unique, independent offering. For a full line up of the retailers taking part & what’s on offer click HERE

Here’s a quick round-up of 5 of my personal independent favourites participating in #CambsIndie2016 

Boudoir Femme 2, King Street, Cambridge. CB1 1LN

Boudoir Femme has been in the City for over 10 years. It is, without doubt, my favourite independent boutique for Womenswear. Owner Pippa Sandison’s edit of brands is always impeccable; with clothing from MIH Jeans, American Vintage, Selected Femme, Ganni & Gestuz through to lingerie by Cheek Frills & accessories by Pernille Corydon & Hultquist (to name a few!) She always has an intuitive sense of what women want to wear; be it the everyday basics – always with longevity or a clever design twist – or Occasionwear with a difference. She consistently remains a step ahead whilst always being relevant. I shop here, my Mum shops here, you should probably shop here too! NB: If you’re a male reading this then Pippa is always great at picking out the perfect gift for the women in your life 😉 I’ve been fortunate enough to work with her in the past & she’s as inspiring as the collections. For Independents’ Week there’s a Cove Knitwear Pop-Up with treats, discount & promotions in store.

Poco Kids 18, King Street, Cambridge. CB1 1LN

Poco Kids is quite simply the Childrenswear store that Cambridge has needed for so long. It became particularly apparent to me after having my own daughter how limited (read:completely lacking) the area was for independent kids’ brands. In its own infancy, Poco Kids started as a solely online retailer. After discovering the store online, I was an instant fan of Laura Clarke & her eagle-eyed edit of modern clothing & accessories for little people up to aged 12. I was eager to share my discovery with all of my #CamMama friends & am thrilled that she has recently opened the doors to her own store in the City. I can’t wait to see the boutique grow (up!) For Independents’ Week there’s 10% off purchases.

Elegant Atelier 12, Rose Crescent, Cambridge. CB2 3LL 

If it’s cutting edge & sophistication you’re after in your wardrobe, then you’ll be certain to find something in store at Elegant Atelier. Sinead O’Loghlen’s discerning edit of both established & up-&-coming designers housed in the beautiful, historic Rose Crescent is a firm new favourite of mine. Designers include a contemporary mix from the likes of  Ba&sh, Humanoid, Bruuns Bazaar & a new discovery for me, King & Tuckfield. From classic tailored pieces to bolder, statement styles it’s an exciting array of Women’s clothing & accessories. For Independents’ Week the creator of King & Tuckfield, Stacey Wood visited the store.

Bridges 20, Bridge Street, Cambridge. CB2 1UF

It used to be a challenge to find fresh fruit & vegetable juices in the heart of Cambridge other than at chains – often packed with additives. Bridges make theirs to order, using organic produce with a great selection of seasonal combinations & vitamin packed pick-me-ups on their menu as well as smoothies & a wide array of healthy eating options throughout the day in addition to their Catering offering. For Independents’ Week they offer a 10% discount to all new customers on their catering packages.

Novi 12, Regent Street, Cambridge. CB2 1DB

I was first introduced to this relaxed, stylish Bar & Eatery by the ladies in the know at Bone White China & it was the venue for the first CamMama event. The multi-functional spaces often house dining Pop-Ups & their healthy yet indulgent menu merges from Brunch & Lunch  onto sharing platters & the most delicious of Cocktails in the evening; these guys are particularly famous for their bespoke botanical & herbal blends. I’m overdue a visit & am making plans to take advantage of the offers this week with friends. For Independents’ Week they are offering 20% off Brunch (Mon-Fri) & ‘2 for £10’ on Botanical Cocktails (Tues, Wed & Thu).