Absolutely ShabbyLass

09/10/2026

08/10/2026

📚 Hibiscus Nights: Book Swap

Fancy a night out without needing to bring a whole group with you?

Our Hibiscus Nights Book Swap is a relaxed evening for anyone who loves books, enjoys meeting new people, or simply fancies getting out for a couple of hours.

Come along on your own or bring a friend. There’s no pressure to be chatty or know anyone when you arrive — just bring a book (or a few!) that you’ve enjoyed and would happily pass on to someone else.

How it works:
📖 Bring up to 3 books to swap
🌿 Browse the books brought along by others
☕ Enjoy a drink in the relaxed surroundings of Hibiscus Lounge
💬 Chat, connect and maybe discover your next favourite read

You can swap, browse, have a drink and enjoy the evening at your own pace.

Whether you’re a lifelong bookworm or just looking for a reason to put your phone down and do something a little different, come and join us.

Come solo. Leave with a new book — and maybe a few new connections too.

📍 Hibiscus Lounge @ Absolutely Shabbylass, 108A Castle Road, Bedford
🎟️ Booking required

Just £6 per entry which includes your drink ☕️
(Limited Spaces)

Go to
www.absolutelyshabbylass.co.uk/workshops

30/09/2026

Excited to share with you, Hibiscus Nights ‘Solo Events’🌙🌺

Evening socials for our local community to come together, switch off and enjoy some time in good company.

Hibiscus Nights are about meeting people, making connections and having a bit of fun in a relaxed and welcoming space. Each event will bring something different — sometimes a little playful, sometimes creative, sometimes simply an excuse to get together.

These events are especially curated but not limited to solo guests. So feel free to come along with friends or a neighbour if you wish but plus ones are optional. Take part, have a chat, meet someone new and see what’s in store.

A little different. A little unexpected. Always welcoming 🌺

Kicking our first event off in just a few weeks time. Open to all adults of all abilities.

Tickets are just £6 🤩

https://absolutelyshabbylass.co.uk/workshops/hibiscus-nights-sip-n-stitch/

19/09/2026

Please welcome our newest maker — The Soap Academy

We’re delighted to welcome The Soap Academy to Absolutely Shabbylass💚

Founded by Dilek, The Soap Academy is all about the slow, beautiful art of handcrafted botanical soap — made in small batches using carefully selected ingredients, natural botanicals and pure essential oils.

What we particularly love about this maker is the philosophy behind the brand. Dilek discovered soap making after leaving a demanding corporate career, finding something wonderfully grounding in the slow process of creating soap by hand. She now grows botanicals including lavender, calendula and yarrow on her own allotment, bringing that connection with nature right into her craft. 🌿

Her soaps are made using the traditional cold-process method, rather than shortcuts such as melt-and-pour, and her approach is centred around natural ingredients, thoughtful making and taking the time to do things properly.

And you can see that care in the beautiful bars now sitting on our shelves — from Lavender and Camomile & Calendula to Mint & Rosemary, Cypress & Cedarwood and Sweet Orange.

But The Soap Academy is about more than beautiful soap. Dilek also teaches others the craft through small, hands-on workshops and online learning, helping complete beginners discover the joy of making something genuinely useful with their own hands.

Check out:
BOTANICAL SOAP MAKING WORKSHOP

Saturday 26th September 12.00-2.00pm

Here at Absolutely Shabbylass

We’re so pleased to have The Soap Academy joining our growing community of independent makers. Pop in, have a smell, pick your favourite — and support a small handmade business while you’re at it. 💚

17/09/2026

Another new chapter is beginning..

Swipe through to find out more👀

❤️

03/09/2026

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Our latest window display is dedicated to THREE fabulous local artists who deserve to be celebrated! 🎨

We’ve filled our window with a selection of their beautiful work, giving you the chance to discover the incredible talent we have right here in our local community.

Alongside their artwork, we’ve included a little introduction to each artist — their story, their inspiration and what makes their work so special. ❤️
Because we believe that LOCAL TALENT DESERVES TO BE SEEN, CELEBRATED & SUPPORTED.

So next time you’re passing, take a moment to stop and have a closer look at our “IN THE SPOTLIGHT” window. You might just discover your next favourite local artist or better still, a new addition to display in your home!

🎨 SUPPORT LOCAL
🖌️ BUY LOCAL
❤️ CELEBRATE LOCAL TALENT

19/08/2026

MEET THE ARTIST — SQUID INK DOODLE

We’re really excited to welcome Mo Rahman, aka Squid Ink Doodle, to Absolutely Shabbylass!

Mo is a Bedford-based illustrator and artist whose work is anything but ordinary. His distinctive style combines vivid colour, strong silhouettes and figurative imagery with influences from 80s cyberpunk, manga and Afrofuturism, creating pieces with a wonderfully retro-futuristic edge.

Originally working predominantly in digital illustration, Mo has also been exploring traditional mediums including acrylic, experimenting with different techniques and styles along the way.

We love discovering talented local artists and makers, and we’re delighted that you can now find a selection of Squid Ink Doodle’s artwork here at Shabbylass.

So if you’re looking for something a little different for your walls — something with colour, character and a story — do come and take a look. 🖤

Welcome to Shabbylass, Mo!

11/08/2026

Send the perfect gift 🎁💐

From beautiful handmade treasures to thoughtful personalised gifts, there’s something for everyone.

The beauty of shopping local is having talented, artistic makers right on your doorstep — creating unique gifts you simply won’t find on the high street.

Have a special request? 💚
Pop in and ask — we can usually oblige!

Whether you’re looking for something personalised, a particular colour or style, or have an idea in mind, we’ll always do our best to make it happen. 🎁