Like every year, I have put together a list of gift ideas with a theme; in the past I have included sustainable gifting, edible gifting… this year, especially given then current difficult economic climate, I have selected a few items made or sold by friends. These are all excellent and clever gifts ideas – they might be primarily food related (no surprise here) but they will suit your lucky family and friends, who will be very grateful for your choice. You will also be supporting independent and individuals, not large corporations!

For the keen baker: Giuseppe Dell’Anno’s rolling pin

I have longed for a gauged rolling pin for a while, but never got round to buying one so GBBO winner Giuseppe’s recently launched pin is already on my own list. He’s an engineer by trade, so a perfect combination for a very useful kitchen gadget. No more wonky pastry and cookies! You can order it from his website.

For the pasta lover: Danilo Cortellini’s Pasta Rules book

Not your average recipe book, this super cute book by MasterChef Professionals finalist Danilo Cortellini is truly great. Even for someone who (allegedly) know how to make pasta at home is a perfect read, full of facts, secrets, dos and don’ts. Small format and appealing graphics, you can buy online.

For the chocolate lover: Jennifer’s chocolate walks + tasting

My friend Jen has been leading chocolate themed walks and tours across London for an incredible 20 years! Her knowledge is incredible and she’s a fun, personable and overall lovely person. I have been on her tours before, and she covers history and quirky London facts as well as of course, mouthwatering chocolate shops and venues. I could not recommend her more, and for those so inclined, she also offers private tasting sessions. Ideal for the chocolate fans out there!

For the bread expert: Sofia’s sourdough classes

I met Sofia after the was on Master Chef a few years ago, and we kept in touch. She’s from Cilento, an area of Campania so so dear to me, we clicked immediately. She’s worked really hard and has become a well followed teacher for food enthusiasts, hosting masterclasses on Italian classics, and most recently, focusing on sourdough bread. She also offers private dining, and gift vouchers and has a mouthwatering recipe blog. Follow her on La Mia Cucina.

For the sparkly choice: Anna Lovell’s jewellery

I already included my friend Anna’s beautiful, creative jewellery in the past, but doing so again as her creations are truly pretty and affordable, and in many cases she reuses vintage items such as buttons to give them a new lease of life. She can also custom create pieces, and will be able to create new, modern items by melting your old, unused silver or gold. Perfect sustainable choice! Her website is Annalovell .co.uk; look out for her workshop’s open days where you can see her work, chat over a cup of tea and a wiglet and buy other craft items from friends.