As the cost-of-living crisis continues to squeeze household budgets, consumers are becoming more selective about how they spend — especially when it comes to celebrations and milestone moments. Affordable personalisation is emerging as a major trend, with shoppers searching for gifts that feel meaningful without carrying a luxury price tag.
One business embracing this shift is November Fourth, a UK-based startup creating custom engraved gifts from a home workshop. From keepsakes for weddings and anniversaries to thoughtful décor for the home, each item is made individually and designed to be cherished.
“The goal isn’t just to make a product — it’s to create something that feels special to the person receiving it,” a November Fourth representative explained. “Everyone loves a personal touch, but high prices often put personalised presents out of reach. We want to change that.”
Shoppers have increasingly turned away from mass-produced novelty items in favour of goods that tell a story. Searching for unique personalised presents has quickly become part of modern gift-buying behaviour, driven by the desire to make occasions memorable even as spending tightens.
Entrepreneurship experts are also seeing a continued rise in home-grown creative ventures across the country. Turning passion projects into small online businesses has become a practical way for many households to boost income and regain financial control.
November Fourth hopes its approach — affordability paired with craftsmanship — will resonate with buyers who want to support independent UK makers while staying sensible with money.
“We know that people still want to celebrate life’s important moments,” the spokesperson added. “Our mission is to give them the chance to do that in a heartfelt way — without overspending.”
