Not only is the weekend now nothing but a distant memory, but today is the greyest of grey days. Windy, rainy and dull-as-dishwater, a Monday like today is the worst kind of start to the week. Couple that fact with the impending Valentine's Day and there's certainly not much to be cheerful about.

Luckily for the gang at The Amazing Blog a silver lining arrived today in the form of G Desserts, just in time to dispel our grey cloud of gloom. Founded by Gillian, the conception of G Desserts came about when she discovered that her three children were having adverse effects from the additives and preservatives used in mass-produced cakes. And thus, as creators of the creme de la creme of handmade desserts, G Desserts use only the finest of ingredients and are free from both additives and preservatives. Most of the ingredients are sourced from local and regional producers in the UK, and as the cupcakes are beautifully presented in jars, the packaging is both reusable and recyclable.

While the jars were intially used as a form of portion-control, they also provide numerous other benefits; perfect for packed lunches or eating on the go, they also make wonderful wedding favours and as the jars seal in moisture they prevent the cupcakes from drying out.

Available in seven mouth-watering flavours: Strawbubbly, Simply Vanilla, Victoria Sponge, Carrot Passion, Chocolate Nutter, Lemon Passion and Red Velvet, we were lucky enough to sample the Chocolate Nutter and Red Velvet, both of which taste every bit as good as they look.

So whether you need an afternoon pick-me-up, or simply fancy a decadent delicacy give G Desserts a try - certainly the tastiest treat we've ever found in a jar!

Much has been made, in recent years, of the benefits of shopping local. Not only are you supporting home grown trade, but generally you’ll find products are higher in quality and as they’re not mass produced, purchases are far more unique, and thus perfect for treating either yourself or a loved one to something extra-special.

If however, you don’t have the time (or indeed the inclination) to spend your Saturday mornings trawling round craft fairs, or seeking out a nearby independent boutique, then Made By Hands Of Britain is the perfect solution. Founded by Gillian Montegrande just over a year ago, this beautiful website has on offer some of the finest items of British craftsmanship available exclusively online. Inspired by a love and appreciation of local skill and artistry, Gillian spotted a niche in the market that was yet to be filled. And so saw the birth of Made By Hands Of Britain which showcases over 190 of Britain’s finest craftsmen, all under one virtual roof. With an array of unique and inspiring items from confectionary to handwoven scarves and 18ct gold jewellery, there’s something to suit everyone, whatever your style or budget.

And while buying handmade gifts from this fabulous website supports local artisan communities, it also means you will be investing in pieces that will endure the test of time, unlike much of what is available on our high streets. One’s carbon footprint is drastically reduced and the seller’s eco-credentials are increasingly higher than large chains, due largely to the way in which they craft their items – by hand rather than by machine.

I particularly liked the Gift part of the website, which had a huge spectrum of offerings available. With sellers including Alexandra Abraham: Artist and Jewellery Designer, who sources her materials from the Thames Foreshore and forgotten rubbish tips, Lucy Alexandra Batt – whose handmade glass pieces are intricately carved and embellished with intimate floral or abstract patterns and Geoffrey Fisher – a Buckinghamshire-based designer who works exclusively in wood, there are some truly fabulous ideas for anyone who needs help with present buying.

So if, like us at The Amazing Blog, you're sick of Britain's copycat high streets, and want to support local trade, check out Made By Hands Of Britain and indulge in the very best of British craftmanship.