When I first set foot in London from the Caribbean with nothing much. The winter shocked me, but the lights dazzled. Neon signs flickered on Oxford Street, Regent Street windows looked like theatres, and Carnaby Street buzzed. My first festive season in London, I learned the value of vintage gifts.

In those days, there was no digital guide to show independent gift shops London. You had to roam, take your chances, unusual gifts for 40th birthday man who has everything} and find gems. The independent shops were where the treasures hid.

Still, I believe the retro gifts are the unusual ones. A retro cocktail cabinet will last longer than cheap throwaways.

Hidden independents across Hackney still carry the unique gifts that people remember. And when you want high-end, high-end boutiques in London are full of shine.

Every September, I feel the city start glowing. That’s when I start looking for unique gifts. Look up best gift shops in London and you’ll have lots of choices. But the real magic always exist in the independents.

For this reason, I always believe that retro themed gift} gifts are the most meaningful. They last, just like the magic of the season.