Monique Chambers is a British-Maltese small business owner and writer. She has worked extensively in PR, specifically in the food and leisure sphere. This week, she’s sharing some of her favourite We Are Not a Shop picks.

Monique, we’re thrilled to have you with us! Could you tell us about your We Are Not a Shop selections?
For starters, I was instantly drawn to this card. There’s really nothing better than receiving a thoughtful (and humorous!) card in the post, is there? I’m old-fashioned that way.

The Edible Flower Garden by Kathy Brown also caught my eye. It’s all about edible flowers. I’ve actually cooked with flowers for several years: they look great and elevate any dish. Malta has a surprising number of edible flowers, so there are loads to choose from. If you love hosting dinner parties, that’s a little tip to have up your sleeve. You’re welcome!

And how gorgeous is Le Petit Echo de la Mode? It’s a magazine from the 1940s, which is an era I’m enamoured with. I could get totally lost in it: the style, language, and just the general innocence of it all is so magical to me. So, this was an obvious choice.

Great picks! So, what do you like most about We Are Not a Shop?
It’s super quirky and unique! It’s the perfect place to shop if you’re looking to put some extra thought into your gifts. If someone buys you something from We Are Not a Shop, you know they really care.

Of course, I also love that it supports local charities. It’s a two-for-one deal because you’re buying something pretty and doing good at the same time.

Did you choose any of your items with someone specific in mind?
Nope, they’re all for me! Seriously…
Although, I’d probably buy this Birthday Yearbook for a friend with a newborn – something handy to keep track of those important milestones.

Then, I would potentially share these handmade Cookies & Cream chocolates, if I were feeling generous.

I could also see myself making a gift for a friend from one of the articles in Le Petit Echo de la Mode. Something funky, homemade, and vintage-inspired! And I’d give my friend Dierdre the Runners gift card. She loves a card almost as much as I do.
Keep them all for yourself, Monique – we won’t judge you for it! Finally, do you have an absolute favourite item, and could you tell us why you love it so much?
The Le Petit Echo de la Mode magazine, for sure! I love anything vintage, specifically if it relates to the 1940s. I wish I could have been around in that era, so this is right up my street. I’m really into sewing too, so the pages on vintage sewing patterns are very me.

We had a feeling you’d go for that one. It’s been great talking to you, Monique. Happy sewing!
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