London has some great malls for when you’re in a hurry or when you have a special and specific purchase in mind. But here we also like our independent stores so when you’re in the mood for a bit of a wander or when you are just looking for that gift that is out of the ordinary run of things, we have just the place.
One of Wendy’s places to spend a quiet half an hour or so is the Mandala Bookshop on Central Avenue in the Richmond Row district. From the outside, it looks like someone’s house and that is pretty much the ambiance inside as well. They don’t just sell books but also have a range of incense, smudging bundles, and a whole load of funky stuff that makes you feel good – I’ve been there a few times myself.
Just because I like sports doesn’t mean I don’t have a spiritual side (that comment is for my sister, Rachel, really, but I thought I would share it with you).
Last Christmas my present to Wendy was a client consultation at Fisher and Co. They help with closet de-cluttering and help plan a capsule wardrobe (which apparently is a really good thing) and basically make fewer clothes go a long way. Well, Wendy was very grateful and has not yet worked out that it was my clever way of getting back some closet space so my shirts don’t have to live their lives at the back of the sock drawer. If she reads this post, I’m sunk!
My dad and I put our heads together to buy something for Mom’s last birthday and we went to Kiss The Cook, a great kitchen shop which not only has the best range of kitchen stuff ever but also runs courses in various cuisines. To our surprise, she chose the pizza class and I have to say that popping over to Mom’s for supper has become the new family hobby ever since. She was good before but now – wow! If you are visiting London and need gifts to take back, check this shop out.
Richmond Row has a whole lot of shops that will keep you coming back time and again. As I said in the intro, big chain stores are fine in their place, but if like me you want to go somewhere that doesn’t look exactly like absolutely everywhere else you visit, then check out this area and find yourself something just that bit different.