I love visiting the city centre of Aberdeen. One of the best things about it for me is the wide variety of businesses and brands that have made the city their home.
Unlike other uninspiring places I’ve visited – where the mainstream reigns supreme – the streets of Aberdeen are full of independent businesses and are awash with colour, individual style and diversity.
Supporting local businesses in Aberdeen
For me, supporting my favourite local businesses in Aberdeen is more than just a trendy idea – it’s a way of life. I love everything about spending and shopping locally, from supporting people with a real passion for what they do to the fact that it’s good for the local economy.
Businesses like the ones I’m listing in this article are creating jobs in Aberdeen. Spending my money locally means that money is more likely to stay in my area.
Did you know that for every £1 spent in a small to medium-sized local business, on average 63p stays local, as opposed to 40p for every £1 spent in a generic high street chain?
So as a celebration of all the businesses that make our city a unique place to live and work, I thought I’d share my top six local Aberdeen brands with you.
Just one warning – Kingshill Studios cannot be held responsible for any damages incurred to your bank account. (And please excuse my iphone photographs!!) OK, ready? Let’s go!
Aberdeen shopping guide
Fabulous Finnies is an Aberdeen institution – they celebrated their 60th anniversary a couple of years ago.
Engagement and eternity rings, wedding bands and watches, luxury gifts and traditional silverware, this family-owned jewellers caters for all tastes and budgets. They’re no run-of-the-mill place either: they employ four goldsmiths and a gemologist, so whether you’re looking to repair a beloved heirloom or create a completely bespoke piece, Finnies can help.
Walk in the door of fashion-forward salon Linton and Mac and you’ll instantly feel a little bit cooler! It’s staffed by gorgeous, effortlessly trendy 20-somethings (perhaps some of them are older – they all look as if they’ve been drinking from the fountain of youth, though!) and neon signs and polaroids adorn the walls.
My recommendation? Book in at the Style Bar and enjoy a glass of fizz and an up-do.
Almondine’s pretty, Parisian-style cafe is my happy place. They also win the award for the best macarons and hot chocolate in the WHOLE WORLD. As a wedding photographer, believe me, I’ve tasted a LOT of macarons!
This upmarket restaurant/bar is situated in a beautiful, historic Old Bank Of Scotland building in Aberdeen, overlooking Rosemount. Decorated in luxe fabrics and bronze accents, Cognito feels ‘special’ – the perfect place for an anniversary meal or birthday tipple. And speaking of tipples, it’s known for its wide range of gins…..
While you’re indulging yourself, can I encourage you to make a night of it? If so, check into The Chester Hotel – they call themselves ‘the last word in elegance’ and they’re really not exaggerating. Once you’re settled into a low-lit bar booth, all you’ll need are some friends and a cocktail menu.
TLB’s mantra is ‘there’s a dress for everyone’ and I’d agree – you’d be hard-pressed not to find a frock or five to meet your requirements from their gorgeous range.
Their stock is constantly rotating and updating and they offer next day delivery, too. If your thing is ‘something a little bit different’, then you need to check out Tiger Lily.
The best shops in Aberdeen
And now over to you, Which are your favourite Aberdeen businesses? I’m always looking for new places to explore. Let’s share some small business love in the comments and remember to support your local businesses by shopping in Aberdeen!
