We started Handpicked to give people a trusted source of unusual and inspiring gift ideas. There’s nothing more satisfying than seeing a present well received and it’s our mission to make that simple. Our Expert Panel make sure we stay on track but we hope, with our blog, we’ll hear more from you too. Comment away!

Our buying team have trying to track down all the loveliest souvenirs with which to celebrate Queen Elizabeth’s Diamond Jubilee. Our favourite so far is this gorgeous jug by Jan Constantine. See all our ideas here.

Shaka Zulu

The vuvuzelas of World Cup fame were definitely in the Marmite sandwich category. Continuing with the African theme in a way we’re sure everyone will love, is the new restaurant-come-nightclub Shaka Zulu. Its opening this week has been highly anticipated so if you’d like to go, we’d highly recommend booking in advance.

The venue is based over Stables Market in Camden and expands over two floors. It cost £5.5m to build and nearly as many years. The walls are covered with handmade mosaics, tribal masks and decorations celebrating King Shaka of Zulu. Each piece of furniture is bespoke and inhabit rooms with 60 foot high walls.

There is an oyster and champagne bar and the food in the main restaurants serves delicacies like ostrich and Springbok as well as beef and lamb.

We’re super excited to test out the menu and check out the venue.