ngrxUiJVl2
With a week to go until the big day, we’re sure that you’re a picture of festive zen: house beautifully clean and decorated, home-baked mince pies resting on the kitchen counter for unexpected guests, and of course, all presents already wrapped and delivered to their recipients.
However, if for some reason you haven’t quite made it there yet (us neither), and still have presents to buy, why not pick up something Irish-made for your loved ones? More original than running into your nearest department store and grabbing something, and you’ll also be supporting an independent business – win-win. (You’re on your own with the mince pies, though.)
Now an annual project, Irish Design shop’s calendar is printed in Dublin in small quantities, and each month features a unique design. What’s more, its perforated pages mean that your recipient will have twelve A3 ready to frame prints throughout the year.
The 2019 calendar was designed by Dublin design studio WorkGroup, and each month was inspired by birthstones, as well as a cross-section of locations across Dublin, such as The War Memorial Gardens, The Cathedral, and Shauna’s Pet Shop. Each calendar also comes with a complimentary tote bag designed by WorkGroup. €28, Irish Design Shop.
Let’s face it, most people love chocolate but upgrade your gift from a sad selection box to some Irish-made offerings from Bean and Goose. With everything from single bars, 1.5kg slabs, curated gift sets and even chocolate subscriptions you’re covered from a Kris Kindle gift to something really special. A Winters Bark 500g slab, €34.90, Bean and Goose.
Made by two Northern Irish sisters, Isle Jewellery has a pared-back aesthetic that is influenced by the time they spent in Japan, yet they take inspiration from the Irish landscape around them. These gold hoops have light-catching angles, an idea that grew from the Giant’s Causeway, and they’re simple enough to wear every day, so would make an ideal present. €395, Industry & Co.
A cosy blanket is an ideal gift for this time of year when all we want to do is curl up in front of the fire. Using ‘wild’ spun merino wool from Donegal which produces a highly textured, dappled appearance, each of these woven throws is completely unique. €216.53, Mourne Textiles.
Candles are a lovely gift, especially for someone who has everything. Rather than an overpoweringly floral one, go for these natural soy candles with scents inspired by the Irish countryside. Made on a farm in Co Cork, you can choose from the smells of earth, rain, gorse, grass, elderflower, and rhubarb. €16, Meadows & Byrne.
It’s lovely to have a special Christmas breakfast, so make it even better with this set from Arran Street East. It features two egg cups, two big mugs and a large milk pourer, all hand-thrown in Dublin and available in a range of colour combinations. Each set is packed in a hamper box. €130, Arran St East.
Featured image: Mourne Textiles