Gok Wan has urged people to "give the gift of time" this Christmas.
The 42-year-old fashion expert has shared his top tips for people to give a thoughtful present to their loved ones this year that doesn’t have to cost the earth.
He said: "Give the gift of time: Christmas is a time to say thank you to your loved ones, and a great way to show you care is with an experience you’ll know they love. Giving someone the gift of time is priceless.
"[Or] make it personal: Personalising a gift turns it into a memory which lasts forever. Find an independent, local jeweller where you can engrave existing, or new pieces of jewellery with a message, creating a beautiful keepsake.
"For a gift that will really delight, find a professional repair and restoration service to bring once-loved items back to life. Or alternatively look for a small shop which offers restorations on their products – you’ll be buying a present which will last a lifetime."
And Gok also thinks a handmade gift is truly "meaningful".
He said: "Giving loved ones something you made yourself makes it much more meaningful. Try out some workshops or classes – not only do you get the chance to make something yourself, but you also learn a new skill at the same time."
With new research by American Express showing two thirds of Brits will leave their Christmas shopping to the last minute, their Shop Small ambassador Gok insists there is no need to panic buy.
He said: "This Christmas, I want to help show shoppers that they don’t need to panic buy, because the Great British high street is absolutely packed with small shops selling unique and amazing items. The shops people walk past every single day are packed full of things waiting to be uncovered.
"So I say get to your high street, shop small and start discovering!"
American Express has teamed up with shopping expert Gok , and bloggers from across the UK, to uncover memorable gifts from small shops this Christmas.
To find out more, visit amexshopsmall.co.uk.
Gok Wan shares Christmas shopping tips
