Love Paisley Magazine Issue 4 Autumn/Winter 2022

you all had a lovely summer

are now looking forward to all

the autumn and winter season brings.

in Paisley town centre there’s a full programme of autumn and winter events ahead to help you get out and about and in the mood for the upcoming festive season.

Paisley’s favourite panto is back as PACE return with Cinderella in a brand new home for 2022.

are looking for the perfect spot for Christmas

nights or to celebrate those all important family

we have all you need to know about function

hire and private dining here in the town centre.

a look through our Christmas Gift Guide and you’ll see we have some hidden gems throughout the town centre to cover all your Christmas shopping, sure to please even the fussiest recipient!

you’ve had some Christmas fun and ticked off your Christmas Shopping List, we have an abundance of amazing hospitality venues to relax in, catering to every taste and budget.

We’re also showcasing the top winter picks for children from our national and independent kidswear retailers.

And we’re taking a look at a creative revolution taking place in our very own Brown’s Lane.

Around 65p from every pound spent locally, stays local – so by picking up that coffee, going for lunch or buying that gift, you can do your bit to support the local community and its businesses.

So, settle down with our Love Paisley Magazine and take a fresh look at all Paisley has to offer.

LOVE LOCAL, LOVE PAISLEY!

Colette Cardosi

Paisley First is fully funded by local businesses in Paisley town centre who are committed to investing in the town centre and its future.

Chair, Paisley First

Winter Warmers

Functions

and Favourites Warm Woollies

MENACE

A FIRM FASHION FAVOURITE IN PAISLEY FOR ALMOST 20 YEARS, MENACE CHILDRENSWEAR STOCKS INTERNATIONAL BRAND NAME DESIGNERS AS WELL AS SCOTTISH DESIGNERS AT 56 CAUSEYSIDE STREET.

From warm winter jackets to partywear for the festivities, they cater for boys and girls from the age of six months to 16 years.

MOONGEMZ

SITUATED AT 32B HIGH STREET, MOONGEMZ BABY & GIFTS IS ANOTHER FAMILY BUSINESS WITH AN AFFORDABLE RANGE OF CLOTHING, SHOES, ACCESSORIES AND GIFT SETS WITH FULL PERSONALISATION AVAILABLE ON EVERYTHING FROM PRAM SETS TO PYJAMAS.

Specialising in clothes from newborns upwards, they have a beautiful range of outfits to help little ones look their best this Christmas.

BARU

CHRISTMAS JAMMIES ARE IN STOCK NOW AT BARU AT 7B MOSS STREET WITH NEW RANGES INCLUDING DISNEY ARRIVING ALL THE TIME.

And not just for school, check out their tartan pinafores to add a Scottish twist to the Christmas and New Year celebrations!

M&CO

M&CO IN THE PIAZZA SHOPPING CENTRE HAS A FULL RANGE OF WINTER CLOTHING FOR BOYS AND GIRLS FROM BABYWEAR UPWARDS.

With everything from partywear to winter woollies, kids will keep warm and on trend all winter long! Check out the latest fashions in store now.

Celebrate

your special occasion in style

Paisley town centre!

Whether it’s a special birthday, a wedding or an anniversary, Paisley has a great range of private dining rooms and function suites and event areas to help you celebrate in style! right here in

Gabriels

Gabriels on the town’s Gauze Street has a function room with designated bar for hire seven days a week for all types of occasions.

With a variety of buffet options to choose from, plus a steak pie option for funerals, the function rooms holds 80 people comfortably and DJ Hire is also available. To learn more, call 0141 887 8204 and speak to a team member.

Juniper Gin Bar and Restaurant

Private dining in the Flower Room Restaurant is a great way to mark a special occasion, whether that be an intimate celebration with close friends or a small birthday party celebration.

Juniper Gin Bar on Old Sneddon Street has a range of menus on offer. Whether you're looking for a formal sit down dinner or a more casual buffet, there are plenty of options available. To book, call 0141 887 3141.

Kennedy’s

The function suite at Kennedy’s Bar comfortably holds up to 35 guests and is available for all kinds of family events, with children also welcome. The friendly team at Kennedy’s on Causeyside Street will work with you on a buffet menu or you can choose from their traditional menu which is available daily. The function room is available with separate bar on request. Call 0141 563 9713 for more details.

Old Swan

Based in the town’s Smithhills Street, The Old Swan’s outside event area can comfortably hold more than 100 people with 80% of this space under cover. There are a range of catering options available on request as well as optional extras including music. Kids are also welcome for the duration of your private function which can be held any day of the week. Call 0141 562 0908 to find out more.

Pendulum

Looking for a stunning function room for those special occasions with a fabulous view of Paisley Abbey?

Pendulum Scottish Kitchen and Bar Private function room holds up to a minimum of 25 people and a maximum of 30 people. For all enquiries and bookings please telephone 0141 889 5459 and one of the team will be happy to assist.

The Ugly Duck

The Ugly Duck on Paisley’s High Street offers function suite hire seven days a week. Holding up to 100 people, including standing space, there are a variety of packages to choose from to help you make the most of your special occasion.

Head to uglyduckpaisley. com/functions for full details on packages, what’s included and optional extras.

RESTORATION & CREATION

Meet the dynamic duo kickstarting a creative revolution from the cobbles of Brown’s Lane.

Friends Caroline and Rosemary moved into the once stables at Brown’s Lane in May this year and have wasted no time in turning it into a creative hub, breathing new life into old furniture.

Caroline explained; “We have a few reasons for picking Paisley, the first is our location and building. We are in Browns Lane which is a really cool Lane with cobbles and murals, and a great area. The building which we rent is gorgeous, the character of the building has been maintained with exposed brickwork and original beams.

“The other reason for picking Paisley was due to the history, with textiles and so much creativity that made Paisley world famous. We know that Paisley has creativity in the heart of the town, we would like to be a part of that with the restoration of the old, which is very much in line with our brand.

“We have been friends for many years, and one of the common characteristics of our friendship has been the discussion about creativity and DIY, this was a subject which we always came around to in our conversations, both from different perspectives.

“I have worked for IKEA for many years in many different countries being a Store Manager and worked for the Global organisation.

“Working for IKEA made me very of the effects of our throw away culture, especially when it comes to furniture. This combined with lack of variety in home furnishings, many homes today can lack colour and boldness. We all want to be able to express our own style whether that be through fashion, hair, make up etc. At Restoration & Creation we give you the opportunity to express yourself through home furnishing, that has been upcycled to a high standard.”

“My younger years were spent working weekends and holidays in my parents DIY shop where I grew to love the smell of sawn wood and paint,” added Rosemary.

“I have always had a love of gardening and garden design as well as sewing clothes, curtains, and cushions. After working many years in an office environment, it is a dream come true to be in a creative business alongside Caroline and we have both felt very welcomed

just switching off, so we want to hold classes creating a relaxed environment where you can come along, spend a couple of hours making something that you can take home with you and ideally meet some new friends,” said Caroline.

by the people in Paisley.

“Now being able to pass on the painting and upholstery skills to others through our workshops is really very rewarding as interacting with other people is what life is all about.

“The business has been born out of our combined passion, and the desire to see individuals come together to release creativity in a fun, convenient way into others’ lives, through getting together and workshops.”

“We love to find second hand furniture from all over, a lot of the fun comes from just finding a piece of quality furniture.” explained Caroline.

“We try to be quite disciplined in our furniture selection, as there is so much it can become quite overwhelming with the amount that can be collected. When we have found furniture, this is when the fun begins.

“We look at the piece and come up with our plan, which consists of colour, material, style, what would it match with, etc. We then go about ordering materials, missing

parts, cleaning, stripping, sanding, painting and varnishing until the product is ready. Then the final part is the placement in our showroom.”

Rosemary continued: “We have a variety of products, mostly we sell up cycled furniture. We seem to have a lot of chairs; we just love working with chairs. We also have drawers, writing bureaus, tables. We have also started to do animal beds which are so much fun to do. Our next project is headboards and bedroom furniture.

“Alongside our own range of furniture, we are selling crafts and arts from individuals – we have soaps, mugs, cards, cushions, art, etc. This is just at the starting stage, we have a lot of space that we would like to fill, and we would like to give individual crafters another avenue to showcase their products, which adds to the uniqueness and helps make Browns Lane a destination.”

Caroline and Rosemary are looking for their creative hub to become a place of inspiration for others to unleash their own creativity too.

“We know that creativity is good for mental health, relaxation and

“Our evening adult classes, most of them you can bring a bottle and have some fun. We have a wide range of classes, bringing in experts from all over - we have a furniture up cycling workshop, upholstery, how to upcycle your home accessories, jewellery making, stain glass, wreaths, soap making, felting, wire trees, painting, etc.

“We also have children’s classes during the school holidays, which offer children a time to come and make some fun things to take home with you, for yourself or as gifts.

“We are already excited about seasonal activities and are busy planning so many fun things to do.”

“We would like to help the community to be sustainable, in a practical and fun way,” says Rosemary

“We want to build a community of artisans so if you are interested, please pop along and see us, where you can connect with us and others.

“Or come along and see our showroom, look on our Facebook page for our workshops. Try something new, come and meet new people.

“A stranger is just a friend you haven’t met yet.”

Restoration & Creation

6 Browns Lane, Paisley 07878 130792

www.restorationcreation.com

As well as an eclectic range of upcycled furniture for sale, they can upcycle your old furniture for you, or show you how to do it yourself in their workshops.

“We want to build a community of artisans so if you are interested, please pop along and see us, where you can connect with us and others.

PAISLEY’S HALLOWEEN FESTIVAL

Paisley’s

returns to the

centre

RUNNING

9PM

6PM

This

The

Renfrewshire’s

Causeyside

Paisley

We’ve

Paisley town centre will host a month-long Christmas carnival with festive family events throughout December.

Renfrewshire Council has organised Paisley’s Christmas in partnership with Paisley First.

Running from Wednesday 30 November until Friday 30 December, excluding Christmas and Boxing Days, there will be an ice rink in County Square and funfair rides along Gilmour Street and Central Way, run by Scotland’s Theme Park.

PRE-BOOK YOUR TICKETS FOR THE ICE RINK NOW VIA WWW.PAISLEY.IS .

There will also be a full programme of free family events at various town centre venues.

Plus, Santa’s Grotto makes a return at the Paisley Centre!

We’ll be bringing free activities including Paisley’s Christmas Gingerbread Trail, photos with reindeer and children’s street entertainers every weekend in December.

And our Paisley town centre Christmas market will be back too! We can’t wait to bring festive fun for the whole family to enjoy back to Paisley town centre this Christmas!

Our Gingerbread Family has got lost whilst Christmas shopping in the town centre – help find them all and you could win a prize with our FREE Paisley’s Christmas Gingerbread Trail!

Running from Wednesday 30th November 2022 until Wednesday 4th January 2023, pick up your trail leaflet from the Paisley First leaflet racks in

Don’t

Piazza

Paisley town centre Christmas Market

Our town centre

Weekend fun for

the family

We’re

Christmas Movies

We’re

Market

back – open 10am until 4pm

weekend in December from

through to

up some hot chocolate and cakes from Fab Fancies to help keep you warm whilst out and about, get some eco-friendly gift sets from ReMode, or how about some sweet treats and stocking fillers from News Express Sweets!

There’s Brew Paisley gift hampers for the coffee lover in your life and just for grownups, we’ll be welcoming back Buddies Gin and introducing Paisley Craft Beer Co. to our market on the High Street.

Just a few of your favourite Paisley businesses you’ll be able to find at our Paisley town centre Christmas Market this year!

Reindeer

Santa’s

There’ll

Paisley’s Pop Up Panto

And why not join us for this year’s

There’ll be two

this

panto,

panto

at Coats

Saturday 17th December!

Full

So head to Paisley this Christmas

a

entertainment for the kids, a chance for you to get your Christmas shopping sorted and plenty of food and drink

to help you make the most of

family get-togethers.

And don’t forget, Paisley’s Christmas

Competition

back with £1,000 of Paisley

for

Love Local, Love Paisley

up for

A seasonal treat for adults and children alike, this retelling of the classic tale will run from 7th to 31st December, excluding Mondays, in an exciting new pop-up theatre in a transformed former department store in the centre of Paisley.

With the traditional home of PACE’s annual panto, the Paisley Art Centre, currently under refurbishment, this year’s family panto will take place in The Art Department, a large scale exhibition space run by Outspoken Arts in The Paisley Centre, formerly Allders Store/Co-op.

The panto will be performed in a fully equipped, pop-up theatre on the third floor, which will be transformed to create a unique and immersive experience from beginning to end.

Heading up a stellar ensemble cast as the Ugly Sisters are Chris Alexander who has been donning high heels as

dame since his first appearance with PACE in 2017, and panto favourite, Alan Orr whose comic performances have made him a favourite with panto audiences for many years.

“We’re thrilled to be bringing panto back to Paisley after a hiatus, as we know that the PACE panto is something of an institution for Renfrewshire audiences at Christmas,” said PACE’s Chief Executive Grant Mason.

“It’s especially exciting to be further developing our pop-up space, which we piloted during our summer activities, and we can’t wait to explore the opportunities that creating a panto in a non-traditional venue presents.

“We’re pulling out all the stops this Christmas and are confident that there will be something for everyone to enjoy!”

With a reputation for producing some of the best family pantomimes in Scotland, regularly playing to audiences of more than 10,000 during the festive season, PACE promises a show you will never forget.

Book your tickets now for this

for all ages at www.pacetheatre.com/boxoffice

redevelopment of the vacant former nightclub as a much-needed midsized venue for Renfrewshire, establishing it across Scotland as a destination for children and young people’s theatre. Once complete, it will host in-house and touring theatre productions, and offer a wide programme of creative learning opportunities, as well as offering an alternative venue for Renfrewshire’s thriving cultural community.

PACE Theatre Company received a major boost to its capital campaign for Exchange Theatre earlier this year, with the confirmation of two significant awards totalling £250, 000 from charitable foundations; The Garfield Weston Foundation, one of the UK’s major supporters of the arts, and The Robert Barr Charitable Foundation. PACE is now tendering for the next phase of work, which will start soon and is expected to be completed by March 2023.

Businesses and individuals can support the project by donating to PACE’s Million Pound Wall campaign, to reach the fundraising total required to complete the third and final phase of work. https://www. pacetheatre.com/exchange/donate/

Whether you are an early bird who already has Christmas all wrapped up, or you are just getting started on your Christmas shopping, you won’t want to miss this!

In conjunction with Renfrewshire Council, we are giving away four prizes of £1,000 of town centre gift vouchers, just in time for the festive season!

Yes, you read that right - we have £1,000 each of Paisley town centre gift vouchers up for grabs for four lucky winners this December with our Christmas Golden Ticket Competition!

Receive a Golden Ticket with every purchase in Paisley town centre, post it in one of our Golden Postboxes in the Piazza Shopping Centre Paisley and The Paisley Centre and you could be one of our lucky winners!

centre

Golden Tickets are available NOW in Paisley town centre businesses, with two winners drawn on Monday 5th December and our final two winners picked out on Monday 12th December.

Just the thing to help you with your Christmas shopping or perhaps get the new year off to a great start - you could use your vouchers towards eating out throughout 2023, shopping for special occasions, or towards a holiday, a new bathroom or even to help towards your weekly groceries – the choice is yours!

Just one of the perks of shopping and socialising in Paisley town centre this Christmas!

WHITE CART CO

30b High Street

"Gift a little bit of love to someone special.

Uniquely sourced gifts, local artists and a personal shopping experience" White Cart Co is a unique, independent gift shop offering an unusual range of gifts, including local art & crafts.

The team strive to help you with high quality gift ideas no matter your budget.

White Cart offers click and collect, free delivery to Renfrewshire on orders over £15 and free shipping on UK orders over £50.

INCUBE

9b Gilmour Street

InCube is a small artisan gift shop, with a unique delivery concept – all of their products are entirely designed and made within the Renfrewshire area by local residents.

Housing a fantastic range of unique products, many of which are inspired by Renfrewshire’s history and heritage, including jewellery, craft items, home décor, candles, scents and children’s wear. Many products can also be personalised or made to order to provide an extra special gift and gift-wrapping is also available. Their unique and inspiring gifts for Christmas ranges from stocking fillers to luxury items.

REMODE

43b High Street

At ReMode, we want to inspire you to learn about sustainable fashion, to shop with us, and get involved with making and creative upcycling. We're all about preventing valuable resources from ending up in landfill, by giving them a new lease of life. By purchasing from us, you are becoming part of the ReMode story. Are you or someone you know ready to take on your own upcycling project but don't know where to start? Our DIY Make Packs are the perfect solution, for you or as a gift. Select from 6 products and our unique collection of reclaimed fabrics. We provide you with all the kit so that you can have all the fun!

DOOLEY’S CYCLES

58 Causeyside Street

Say the word bicycle in Paisley and the name Dooley’s instantly springs to mind.

Whether you are after a first bike for children, or something for the cycling enthusiast in your life, Dooley’s Cycles has everything you need. With a range of mountain bikes, racing bikes, hybrid bikes, e-bikes and kids bikes to suit all budgets, you can also buy your cycling accessories, helmets and clothing here too.

RAINBOW TURTLE

7 Gauze Street

You can shop local and fair in Paisley this Christmas and make a huge difference to people’s lives.

Rainbow Turtle is your own fair trade, ethical, and sustainable shop –catering for everyone – with products sourced from all over the world. Hampers come in 3 sizes and may be tailored to treat a loved one this Christmas. Vouchers are popular too. You may even wish to include a voucher in a hamper! Also stocking gifts, toys, games, cards, advent calendars and decorations as well as bags, t-shirts, food, drinks, and their increasingly sought-after household products and refills. Accepts the Scotland Loves Local gift card and staff are Dementia Friendly trained.

SWEETS

69 High Street

News Express Sweets is the place to go for Customised Christmas Sweetie Boxes!

Choose from more than 49 different types of sweets with two box sizes available! Treat someone special or treat yourself! Choose which sweets you want included in the festive box; just £5 for 500g or £8 for the 800g boxes.

BOUTIQUE

5 Mill Street

Treat someone you love so that they feel fabulous this Christmas!

Milano Boutique specialises in a fantastic range of Italian clothing, quality branded footwear including Bagatt Footwear and a vast collection of Italian handbags, fashion accessories and unique jewellery. Pop in and see their many gift ideas in store.

MCLAUCHLAN & CO JEWELLERS

22 New Street

McLauchlan and Co Jewellers is Paisley’s oldest family jewellers and the team pride themselves on helping their customers find the perfect gift for your loved one at Christmas. With a full range of jewellery including watches, bracelets, earrings and rings, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Or if you are looking for a special gift this year, perhaps it’s time for a bespoke piece of jewellery!

WITH LOVE FLOWERS

48 Causeyside Street

Ten year veterans of their trade, the beautiful window displays at With Love Flowers Causeyside Street store are always perfect tributes to the season, never more so than at Christmas.

Choose from Christmas homeware and decorations from £5, Wreaths from £20 and Christmas Bouquets starting at £30 along with Christmas Floral Arrangements from £25 and Christmas Table Arrangements starting from £30.

JOHN MCKAY JEWELLERS

53 Moss Street

Another of our fabulous long-standing jewellers, John McKay Jewellers has launched their own range of Swarovski jewellery.

Made of AAA cubic zirconia which will never lose its sparkle, each piece has three layers of 18ct white gold Rhodium plating. Check out the full range which includes Earrings from £15, Collar at £49 and this beautiful Bracelet priced just £90.

CARDS, PARTY, BALLOONS

27 Causeyside Street

Cards, Party, Balloons is your one stop shop to help you get Christmas all wrapped up.

With a wide range of Christmas cards, wrapping paper, gift bags, boxes, ribbons and bows plus special Christmas balloons, pop in and see them in their Causeyside Street store.

FINISHING TOUCHES

7 Johnston Street

Finishing Touches is a favourite in Paisley for all your lingerie needs, for yourself or as a gift.

Trading in the town for 37 years, owner Liz will be on hand for bra fitting or to help you pick out the perfect present. Two top picks for the festive season are Fantasies Illusion available in D to GG fitting with matching brief.

Or how about the Freya Infinity, available in D to G fitting with matching brief or shorts.

PRINT CENTRE

31 Gauze Street

“Because with us it’s personal!” The Print Centre is another of the town’s great, local family businesses, where the team will help make your gifts special and unique this Christmas. They have a full range of ideas to choose from including canvas prints, Christmas cards, printed garments and t-shirts along with bottle labels and book marks. Or how about this personalised cushion cover for £25 for you to insert your own gifts? Cushion pad not included.

SUE QUINN BEARS

25 Lawn Street

Identifiable by their SQ badge, Sue Quinn Bears and woodland animals are sought after by admirers the world over. Visit her website at www. bearsbysuequinn.co.uk or pop into her beautiful shop in the town’s Lawn Street to get that perfect Christmas gift for someone special.

HOUSTON KILTMAKERS

67 High Street

Best known for their kilts, Houston Kiltmakers also offer a fantastic range of tartan gifts and homeware accessories for Christmas.

Our favourites are these bespoke and personalised tartan stockings which can be made in any clan tartan and can also be embroidered with prices starting from £40. Quote

Love Paisley and also get a £5 discount on any kilt hire for Christmas!

IVAD GIFTS

29 Gauze Street

IVAD Gifts is a

Home and Gift store stocking a gorgeous range of cards, gifts, home & lifestyle for all occasions.

Brands include Joma Jewellery, Katie Loxton and Yankee Candle. Make gifts beautiful with their fabulous gift wrapping service and look out for their special Christmas Shopping Events.

WHETHER YOU ARE AFTER A GIFT FOR HIM, A GIFT FOR HER, THE HOME OR THE KIDS, PAISLEY HAS CHRISTMAS ALL WRAPPED UP!

WHEN IT COMES TO CHRISTMAS SHOPPING, WE HAVE A LOT OF FANTASTIC INDEPENDENT BUSINESSES AS WELL AS NATIONAL CHAINS THROUGHOUT PAISLEY TOWN CENTRE.

WHEN IT COMES TO CHRISTMAS SHOPPING, WE HAVE A LOT OF FANTASTIC INDEPENDENT BUSINESSES AS WELL AS NATIONAL CHAINS THROUGHOUT PAISLEY TOWN CENTRE.

WHETHER YOU ARE AFTER A GIFT FOR HIM, A GIFT FOR HER, THE HOME OR THE KIDS, PAISLEY HAS CHRISTMAS ALL WRAPPED UP!

PRETTY KITTY DESIGNS AT MOONGEMZ BABY

32b High Street

BUDDIES GIN

Click and Collect available from White Cart Co, 30b High Street

Our top pick for Gin Lovers, why not gift someone a 500ml bottle of Buddies Scottish Craft Gin this Christmas, it’s the nation’s new favourite tipple!

MOONGEMZ BABY

32b High Street

With a full range of Christmas Gift Sets, many available with personalisation, head to Moongemz Baby for the little one in your life.

Choose from personalised pyjamas, babygro and bib sets plus Christmas stockings and sacks or why not pick up a personalised doll or toy pram set. Full range available in store now.

Located with Moongemz Baby, Pretty Kitty Designs offers a wide range of bespoke and personalised gifts for children.

Choose something pretty for a child’s bedroom or go all out for Christmas! Order in store now to avoid disappointment.

PAISLEY CRAFT BEER CO

16 Silk Street

One for the beer lover in your life! Head to Silk Street now and check out the fantastic range of craft beers available from Paisley Craft Beer Co.

Stocking craft beer from all over Scotland, the UK and beyond as well as closer to home. For Christmas, Jamie will have a number of gift packs available, as well as Beer Advent Calendars which will be available to pre-order in October and November.

SINCLAIR’S OF PAISLEY

30a High Street

Lots of Sparkling gifts available this year at SINCLAIR’S of PAISLEY on the High Street. Diamond Jewellery is always a favourite at Christmas time and the team at Sinclair’s also have a beautiful range of silver jewellery stocking fillers for family & friends this Christmas.

PAISLEY PICTURE FRAMERS

56 Causeyside Street

Stepping into Paisley Picture Framers on Causeyside Street and you are instantly met with a real treasure trove of artworks. With thousands of pieces in stock, from limited editions to originals, you are sure to find the perfect gift for the art lover in your life. Or why not have a treasured keepsake framed? Conservation framing of a much loved football shirt costs between £140.00 - £160.00 depending on the size and choice of finished frame chosen.

SUMMITS OUTDOORS

36 Moss Street

Wrap up warm and prepare for a cold winter here at Summits.

With cosey Rab clothing, super-insulated Yeti flasks and mugs and everything else to keep you and your loved one’s toasty when the colder weather arrives.

Check out the full range in store now.

TASTE BUDS

PAISLEY 22b Lawn Street

Looking for a traditional Christmas Cake but don’t have time to make your own?

How about some Clootie Dumpling or Christmas Cupcakes? Taste Buds Paisley has a full range available to order, also including Chocolate Bark, Marshmallow Snowmen, Christmas Empire Biscuits, Chocolate Brownie Christmas Trees and Hot Chocolate Cones. They also provide buffet catering for Christmas parties and social gatherings too.

NIK MAKE UP ARTIST

4 Orr Square

Check out the new makeup brush line from multi-awardwinning Nik Makeup Artist, a perfect gift for the lady in your life. Or why not buy gift vouchers for a makeup session or make up lessons at the studio in Orr Square. Find out more at www. nikmakeupartist.com

DIGITALPICT PHOTOGRAPHY

19 Glasgow Road

This family business offers contemporary photography for portraiture and weddings as well as commercial and events.

Digitalpict Photography’s pet friendly studio can accommodate larger family groups and special set ups for newborns, children and pets. Providing professional photography products and solutions for customers with a personal touch, they offer gift vouchers, a perfect Christmas gift. Their spacious portrait studio is just a hop and a skip away from both Paisley Abbey and St Mirin's Cathedral as well the Paisley Marriage Suite at Renfrewshire House.

GENNARO GIFTWARE

2 Abercorn Street

Christmas is ALMOST here, so let us help you find the perfect present for your loved ones or choose a gift voucher, available from just £10 to go towards that special treat they have always wanted.

From bespoke mirrors, pictures & prints to all your glass, glazing & composite door needs, call Gennaro on 0141 889 3367 or pop in, our normal opening times are between 9am - 5pm Monday to Friday and with a customer car park for you to use during your visit, we look forward to welcoming you soon.

WHAT IF

25 Moss Street

What If has lots to choose from this Christmas. How about some Paisley Pounds gift vouchers?

Give the Gift of Possibility this year; these can be spent on workshop classes, gifts and homeware by their talented makers. Or choose a special gift from a mix of their makers' goodness with a great range of unique gifts available.

RESTORATION & CREATION

6 Browns Lane

If you are looking for a unique gift, then head along to Restoration & Creation in Browns Lane.

They have several individual handmade products that are not seen on the High Street as well as their own bespoke range of furniture. Or why not pick up a gift card for their fun evening classes that can be enjoyed at a later time.

THE BUTTERFLY ROOM

Inside What If, 25 Moss Street

Choose from an array of gift sets at The Butterfly Room or buy a gift voucher for a session of your choice from their list of services.

Browse their selection of spiritually inspired gifts and a selection of organic wellbeing products, located within What If.

WARREN JAMES

Piazza Shopping Centre

Offering incredible value for money, Warren James stocks a wide range of beautiful jewellery in their store inside the Piazza Shopping Centre.

How about one of these earring and necklace gift sets? Retail price for the Hearts set is £194 but you can buy it here for £118 while the Baguette cut Swirl normally retails for £258, Warren James Price is £159. All items can also be purchased separately.

MUSCLEBOUND

PAISLEY

14 New Street

Crowned best Scottish independent sports retailer in 2018, Musclebound in New Street houses all the leading brands in the fields of health and sports supplements as well as fight gear for adults and children alike. Pop in and see the full stock in store now.

H W MCLEAN

5 George Place

As well as stocking a beautiful range of crystal, glassware and pewterware, H W McLean can also offer personalisation as one of the finest hand-engravers around. Perfect for that personalised gift.

CHARITY CHRISTMAS CARDS

Wanting to support a charity when you send your Christmas Cards to friends and family this year?

A great range of charity Christmas cards and gift sets are available from Paisley town centre’s charity shops. Choose from ACCORD Hospice, Barnardo’s, British Heart Foundation, Cancer Research, Debra, the Salvation Army, Save the Children, Shelter and the St. Vincent Hospice store.

HEALTH, HAIR AND BEAUTY VOUCHERS

WH SMITH

WH Smith on the High Street stocks a wide range of Christmas cards and gift-wrap, as well as books, board games and puzzles along with a great variety of stocking fillers.

Don’t forget those allimportant Christmas chocolates too!

THE WORKS

The Works store is based inside the Piazza Shopping Centre and offers a great range of make your own Christmas cards, crafts and more.

They also stock a fantastic selection of books, board games, puzzles and stocking fillers for all ages.

CARD FACTORY

Card Factory in the Piazza Shopping Centre offers great value cards, gift-wrap, and gift bags to help you get Christmas all wrapped up!

THE PAISLEY CENTRE

The Paisley Centre has you covered for beauty and perfume gift sets in Boots and Savers.

And for the sports lover in your life, a trip to JD Sports is a must. You can also make the most of the Paisley Centre’s multi-storey car park.

PIAZZA SHOPPING CENTRE

The Piazza Shopping Centre takes care of all your beauty and perfume needs this Christmas with a great range of Christmas deals and offers available in Superdrug, Boots, Semi-Chem and Bodycare.

Head to Vodafone for the tech lover in your life and stock up on those stocking fillers from Poundland You can also take advantage of the Piazza’s multi-storey car park.

Paisley town centre has an abundance of awardwinning health, hair and beauty salons to make sure you look and feel great during the festive season.

Why not buy a loved one a gift voucher so they have a treat to look forward to, helping to banish those January blues!

HOME FROM HOME

UWS Storie Street Residences opened ten years ago in 2012 to complement traditional tenement accommodation on George Street and Lady Lane in Paisley.

Since then, a growing number of international students have chosen to make here their home from home.

Carly Dawson, ResLife Manager, explains: “Around 20% of our student population in Residences are international students and they come from all over the world.

“Our Residence Life Team look after student experience, ensuring a programme of social events is in place at each Residence and offering support and signposting to students as required.

“They are focused on creating a home-from-home and ensuring that a community is created within the Residences, so that from start to finish the student journey through Residences is a positive one.

“They also work closely with local businesses, to create a widespread community across Paisley.”

There are 336 bedroom within Storie Street Residences; all of which are en-suite.

Bedrooms are in cluster flats of 4, 5 or 6 bedrooms, with a shared kitchen/lounge and Storie Street has a common room and laundry room too.

“Students love the local community in Paisley and the local business offering – including the lively night life,” added Carly.

“Our students tell us Paisley is one of the friendliest places they’ve ever been and the proximity to campus, 24-hour security and all utilities being included in the weekly rent price means they have everything they need to ensure an amazing student experience.

“We also operate short summer stays during the summer period, including a number of international summer schools.

“UWS students are also welcome to stay with us over the summer period and many do, so they can work and socialise during their time off.”

UWS also offers short-term self-catered accommodation to visitors to Paisley during the summer period.

Prospective guests can contact the team to check availability and rates at accommodation@uws.ac.uk

Owner Alan McEwan has been operating in Paisley since 2014 as part of Brick Lane Studios but moved his media business to Shuttle Street in 2019.

“We wanted to be part of the growing cultural scene in Paisley and thought there was a great opportunity to grow our new business here in the town,” explains Alan.

“My background is in business management but I also am a musician that's why I originally started Brick Lane Studios. I felt there weren't enough services locally for musicians and as the business grew we identified a demand for video services with other artists and local businesses too.

“The media business started to grown quickly and started taking up more of my time so I decided to sell the music side of the business to concentrate more on growing the media services.”

“We offer social media marketing for businesses, promotional films, event films and photography as well as wedding packages.

“We are a young local company working with the best young creative talents from Renfrewshire. We are also a very affordable option in what can be a very expensive market.

“We tailor our prices to suit the needs of the client and you probably won't get it cheaper anywhere else.”

With a full calendar of events every year within Paisley town centre, Alan and his team are no strangers on the

streets of Paisley with cameras and sound equipment.

“Sma’ Shot Day is always a great day, while the burning of the Cork is always something a little bit different to film! added Alan.

“We would like to be known as the go to business for both business media growth services and a great value wedding and event film and photography business.

“So please get in touch to find out more if this is something you think would benefit your business or you have an event coming up which you would like to capture on film forever.”

Shuttle Street, Paisley

SCOTLAND’S LARGEST TOWN IS HOME TO RESIDENTS AND LOCAL BUSINESSES, A HISTORIC ABBEY AND A CATHEDRAL AND OF COURSE, A WORLD CLASS UNIVERSITY. AND IT’S THANKS TO THE UNIVERSITY OF THE WEST OF SCOTLAND, THAT THE TOWN IS ALSO A SECOND HOME FOR HUNDREDS OF STUDENTS WHO CHOOSE TO STUDY AND LIVE IN PAISLEY TOWN CENTRE.

If you are looking to capture a special life event or family celebration on film, then look no further than Bricklane Media.

Bricklane

Digitalpict Photography

Photography is a real lifelong passion for these brothers who have been capturing treasured memories in Paisley for more than fifteen years.

“We first entered the friendly fray of opening a portrait photography studio in the Paisley Centre in 2007 and by the end of 2009 we had moved to our current premises on Glasgow Road,” explains Tommy.

“Along with my brother Johnny, we had the good fortune to spend a significant portion of our younger years in an area of the Highlands called Assynt.

“We quickly realised that the rather expensive twee postcards on offer were doing no justice in sharing just how ruggedly beautiful the area was with my friends back home in Scotland's central belt.

“So along with my brother, we quickly progressed into capturing the scenery with cheap cameras, then cameras rapidly upgraded and before you knew it, we had become hooked and we were budding landscape photographers chasing sunrises and sunsets all over Scotland.

“A quick pivot and we had taken on the challenge of capturing people through Portrait Photography and what once had been a family hobby became a family business.”

As Digitalpict Photography, the brothers specialise in portraits, newborns and weddings as well as events and commercial photography and the rising interest in pet photography.

“We have always been pet friendly and we have seen a

rise of fellow pet lovers approach us,” added Tommy.

“We also have our very own paw mascot in the wonder westie that is Murdo who often gets the camera pointed at him. We can accommodate either at the studio or arrange a location to capture your pawed ones.

“We have been lucky in being asked to do some exciting shoots, from taking photos on the runway of Glasgow Airport for Emirates to the middle of the Firth of Clyde taking photos for a chartered boat business.

“The strangest though was a bottle of very rare whisky that was worth a very considerable sum, we had to wear gloves to even touch the bottle.

“Our packages change on a regular basis so you're best checking out our social media or send us an email and we will get back to you with info on what deals we are currently running.

“We offer contemporary timeless family memories that will last the test of time, all from our family run photography studio.

“We would like to be known as a friendly professional business that goes the extra mile to get your photos right, offering stress free photography, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.”

Digitalpict Photography Studio 19 Glasgow Rd, Paisley, Renfrewshire 07717 080094 www.digitalpict.com

Founded in 1984, The Wynd Centre was initially an outreach centre when St John’s Church joined with the now Oakshaw Trinity Church but has since grown to become a real community hub offering vital support networks.

“Initially the centre only offered a small counselling service and a coffee shop,” explained Thomas Blane, Manager of the Wynd Counselling & Conference Centre.

“But after a £2.7 million pound refurbishment twenty years ago, we were afforded the opportunity to modernise and offer space to the type of groups that we couldn't before.

“Many visitors when they come into the Wynd Centre for the first time and receive a tour explain it as ‘The Tardis' due to us having a lot more space than people think!

“Our main room is the Auditorium which has a maximum capacity of 240 and has had all types of events from concerts to conferences and weddings to film festivals.

“Our other larger hall is the Oakshaw Hall which can be divided into two halls

with a partition. The capacity of this hall is 150 and over the years has been used for a multitude of events including ceilidhs, dinner events and dance shows.

“Our smaller rooms such as the Adams Suite and Tannahill Studio are mostly used by our weekly groups who have been here for a longer period of time. These include fitness classes, art classes, sports groups and choirs to name a few.”

With a rise in hybrid working as a result of the pandemic, the Wynd also offers several small office sized rooms for groups of under eight which can be used as a meeting space. They can also accommodate conferences from groups linking to others working from home or from other work spaces using projectors and screens as well as a lunch option for those attending conferences.

“The Wynd has had hundreds of groups and organisations use the facilities over the last 38 years and this has accumulated in a widerange of individuals from all corners of the community walking through our front door,” added Thomas.

“There are many community groups including several 'anonymous' groups,

sign language group, cancer support group and emergency services support group to name a few. It is vital that these types of groups have a safe space where they can come to and be supported during these difficult times for us all.

“Our counselling service has also grown significantly over the years and has had thousands of clients attend since it was created.

“We see that as a crucial part of what we do at the centre and believe that it is now more important than ever for the community considering the last couple of years that we've all went through. We also have a fantastic team of counsellors in our service who put so much effort into providing the best service possible for the people of Paisley and beyond.

“We are already gearing up for our 40th anniversary in 2024 and we are in the process of organising events to take place throughout the whole year which will include performances, charity events and a celebratory dinner to top it all off.

“This will be a time for us to celebrate the past, present and the future of what has been achieved by the centre already and aspire to greater things over the coming years.”

The community hub offering a support lifeline in the heart of Paisley

MONEY MATT£RS

Scotland Loves

Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau

Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau is a local, independent charity which provides free, impartial and confidential advice and information to give you the tools you need to sort out any issues or problems.

Based on Glasgow Road in Paisley town centre, you can contact Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau for support and advice on a number of money-related and other topics. Whether you need advice about your money situation, managing your debts or you need help with benefits, their trained advisers have vast experience in offering advice and guidance when you need it most.

Let Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau point you in the right direction.

Call 0141 889 2121 or visit www.renfrewshirecab.org.uk/contact-us for more details.

Right Way Credit Union

More than 400,000 people in Scotland are already members of a credit union with Right Way Credit Union’s main office based on Paisley High Street.

If you live within the West of Scotland, you can take advantage of products and services including Savings Accounts, Christmas Saver Account, Loans, Payroll Savings, Free Savings and Loan Protection Insurance. They also offer Junior Savings Accounts to help the youngest members of the family become keen savers.

You can join online by visiting www.rwcu.co.uk or pop into the office at 41 High Street in Paisley.

Did you know that borrowing money from your local Credit Union can be cheaper than extending your overdraft or taking out a new credit card?

We are all too aware of the challenging times people are experiencing as a result of rising energy bills and high inflation and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But you don’t have to face this alone, help is at hand here in Paisley town centre.

AND PUBLIC

Heading to Paisley for some shopping, a catch up with friends or one of our events?

BY CAR

Paisley is accessible from all major road routes in the West Coast of Scotland, see our website www.paisleyfirst. com/getting-here/ to get directions from your location

PARKING

Check out details of our Free for Three pilot car parks on the opposite page – until at least the end of March, you can get free parking at these locations for three hours after 10am Monday to Saturday, but don’t forget to print out your ticket at the meter!

Electric charging points will go live in the near future at both Bridge Street and Hunter Street council car parks.

On street parking is payable Monday to Friday but is free at weekends with all council car parks free on Sundays too.

Both our shopping centres also have multi-storey car parks just off Central Road and on Storie Street.

BY TRAIN

You can get a train from a range of Renfrewshire train stations or Glasgow Central to Paisley Gilmour Street train station which will bring you straight to County Square, in the heart of the town centre! With regular services from Inverclyde and Ayrshire too!

BY BUS McGill’s Buses, who last year unveiled a new fleet of electric vehicles, have various services in and around Paisley, with more than 70 buses per hour serving the town centre.

Buses from Glasgow city centre to Paisley are services 17, 26 and 38 with plenty of other routes from within Renfrewshire, Ayrshire and Inverclyde.

First Glasgow service No 9 has also gone electric and will bring you to the heart of Paisley from Glasgow city centre via Ibrox, Cardonald and Ralston.