The month of giving and generosity is upon us. We’re all making the effort to get together, hosting iftar gatherings for strengthening bonds with family and the wider community. But try as we might to make the gatherings with loved ones, there will always be someone who cannot make it. Ramadan hampers can be a great way of giving and showing the special people in your life that you’re thinking of them.

I had attempted on making a few hampers, but failed abysmally. It was while searching online for hamper ideas, I stumbled across five minority-women led businesses providing beautifully curated handmade hampers. For over a decade these women have been developing the craft of gift-giving experiences, their story of how they began is inspiring and definitely worth bringing to attention.   

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Ibadah London

Drawing on inspiration from her faith Mariam Manawer sought to design Islamic gifts that are ethically and socially sourced. She founded Ibadah London, an online gifting and lifestyle brand providing a range of halal-friendly luxurious products. The Suhoor Breakfast and the After Iftar hampers are perfect for those who like to indulge in treats pre and post fasts. Filled with revitalising treats, including a hand-painted Palestinian mug to enjoy your tea.  With a sale on now these hampers are sure to be gone soon. Her products are also available to purchase from Selfridges. 

Cutter & Squidge

Cutter & Squidge opened its doors to the public in 2015. It began when two sisters would swap from being corporate women to night-time bakers. In their tiny kitchen, Annabel and Emily will rustle up new flavours and designs. They describe themselves as flavour mavericks with motto being to bring ‘fun, fearless flavours, creating what others haven’t.’ Staying true to this, the sisters have crafted a Ramadan treats collection drawing on inspiration from Middle Eastern flavours. From semolina sponge cake delicately flavoured with orange and rose to za’atar and olive manakish cookie bites – there is a balance of sweet and savoury treats. Each year, they collaborate with different artists for designing exclusive artwork for their Ramadan and Eid collections. This year they worked with British-Iranian illustrator and artist Mariam Tafsir whose designs feature Qajar art and Islamic designs. Some of Cutter & Squidge’s Ramadan collection have already sold out. However, a few of the limited edition, including Ramadan Midnight Feast Hamper and Ramadan Sharing Box remain.