Mums launch range of Christmas decorations of colour to make the festive season more inclusive

In a bid to make the festive season more inclusive, two mums have launched a range of Christmas decorations of colour including Angels and Father Christmas ornaments.

Alison Burton and Natalie Duvall, both working mums from London, say they had their lightbulb moment after realising their daughters couldn’t see themselves represented in the decorations on their Christmas trees.

They set about looking for Christmas ornaments of colour that represented their families but drew a blank in the UK and ended up using a black Barbie as a tree topper.

“We searched everywhere but couldn't find anything available online or on the high street in the UK, except one which had been hand painted black by a local shop owner!” Natalie tells Yahoo UK, via email.

So the pair teamed up to do something about it.

“We feel that inclusion is important for all, especially at Christmas,” Natalie continues.

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Despite there being over three million people of colour and mixed race heritage living in England and Wales, Natalie and Alison point out that BAME consumers in the UK often feel a lack of representation with regards to the products available.

And this can have a knock-on effect.

“There have been quite a few studies on the effects of representation in children over the last few years and it has been proven time and time again the importance of seeing yourself represented in a positive light,” the pair explain.

“Christmas is no exception. If you have angels or fairies to hang on your tree, why can't at least one look like you?

“These Christmas products are long overdue in the UK,” they add.

And when the duo saw their daughters’ faces light up after seeing their designs for the first time, they knew they were onto something.

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Having launched their company, March Muses, named because both women are born in March, Natalie and Alison decided to name each of their figurines after an inspirational person of colour or family member who is also born in March - their muses.

The figurines currently come in two shades to demonstrate the diversity of complexions within the black community, but there are plans to increase the product range.

Since offering the products the full-time working mothers, who also run Creative Spotlight, say they’ve been amazed with the response they’ve received.

“People are beginning to appreciate that representation and inclusivity really does matter – particularly with children and especially within the home,” Alison explains.

“We have been delighted by the response, and we are dreaming of an 'inclusive' Christmas this year!” Natalie adds.