November is an excellent time to start seriously ticking things off your Christmas list and with plenty of local shopping opportunities, it is easy to support local businesses in the process, writes Hazel Roberts.

The Camphill Community Artisan Food & Craft Fayre is on 10th November from 10am until 4pm in the Chrysalis Theatre, Willen.
The charity supports people with learning disabilities and they will be showcasing their own creations including preserves, honey, bread, vinegars and arts. There will be 30 local artisan stalls selling all sorts of handmade goodies.
Pick up a locally reared turkey this year from Moorgate Farm in Potterspury.
On 11th & 18th November they will be holding their Christmas KellyBronze turkey tasting days, where you will be able to sample a cooked turkey and pre-order your bird, ready for collection just before Christmas.
You can also pick up other Christmas essentials from other small producers including preserves, puddings, wine, cheeses and chocolates.
On the opposite side of the A5 is Wharf Distillery & Deli and, in the run up to Christmas, they will be holding a number of events to help you get your shopping done.
Friday 16th November, 7-10pm, is their Bubbles & Truffles Evening in partnership with Trelawney Wines and Chocolate Mill MK.
Then on 30th November all the businesses on the site come together for their Christmas in the Courtyard evening. Combining food, drink, beauty and art, there will be unique gift ideas, makeovers, tutorials, demos and tastings, handmade wood fired pizza from Guiseppe’s Pizzeria and even some carols.
Celebrate:MK has been named as a finalist at the SME MK & Buckinghamshire Business Awards. Please vote for Celebrate:MK to win via this link, it only takes a second! https://www.buckinghamshireawards.co.uk/vote-your-best-customer-service