Buying from local businesses is something that I have been passionate about for quite a while. The majority of my posts are about small businesses in Ireland and I believe that we have an abundance of amazing and creative companies here. I have put the following list together of companies that I recommend. This post is updated from last year.
Candles and Wax Melts
Soap and Bubbles
Soap and Bubbles is a Galway based company selling wax melts, bath bombs (which don’t stain your bath and don’t cost a fortune) and a selection of melt burners and mugs. The wax melts which are made by Soap and Bubbles are both beautifully scented and presented; they are my current obsession and I can’t get enough of them. The adorable pumpkin melts come in any scent of your choosing. There is a range of Christmas delights this year. There are also soap and bath bomb parcels with a range of delightful treats.
Pumpkin10 will get you 10% off online.
www.soapandbubbles.eu
Wickcraft and Wickery
Dani produces beautiful wax melts which are cruelty-free and vegan as well as stunning foil prints. I have purchased two prints and melts and I adore them. There are plenty of wonderful items to choose from.
@wickcraftandwickery on Instagram
Cailleach Candles
Nola makes the most amazing vegan candles inspired by myth and magic and adorned with ethical crystals. A Yule Sabbat box would make a lovely gift and the Yule candle is one of my favourite seasonal scents.
www.cailleachcandles.com
Cauldron Candles
Lucy’s wax melts and candles are gorgeous and her skulls, pumpkins and cats will appeal to those who believe in Halloween all year long (like me!).
www.cauldroncandlesireland.com
Skincare
Sweet Lavender and Chili Flakes
Operating from Dublin, Stef from Sweet Lavender and Chili Flakes encourages a move away from disposable items with a range of period products, cleansing wipes, scrunchies and sustainable underwear. There are themed subscription boxes full of beautifully hand-crafted re-usables.
www.sweetlavenderchiliflakes.com
An Bean Feasa
I now have a love affair with seaweed thanks to the wonder that is An Bean Feasa. Hilli’s seaweed products are magical. There is a range of bath products, skincare, soaps and oils. I am converted to the healing powers of seaweed and will never look back. Any gift from An Bean Feasa will have mystical, healing mermaid-like properties.
@anbeanfeasa on Instagram
The Burren Perfumery
Based in Clare, The Burren Perfumery offers natural and organic skincare, candles, teas and perfumes inspired by nature and the surroundings of The Burren. Their products are simply gorgeous and I’m a big fan of Winter Woods and Wild Rose perfumes.
www.burrenperfumery.com
Palm Free Irish Soaps
One of the most bought items in my home is soap from Palm Free Irish Soap. I can’t get enough. The family run business produces a range of package free bars of soap, shampoo, laundry and deodorant as well as pet shampoo.
www.palmfreeirishsoap.ie
Sósoap
Gillian creates handcrafted soaps and shampoo bars from Duleek, Co. Meath that are nourishing, luxurious and soothing. A personal favourite of mine is the pumpkin soap dish.
@sosoap21 on Instagram
Essence D’ Immortelle
Lady Lavinia Ravenswood, the epitome of 1930s glamour, produces vegan and bespoke perfumes in vintage bottles. All perfumes are made from an 18th century perfume desk and every utensil in the process is antique.
www.essencedimortelle.com
The Handmade Soap Company
Have you ever used soap and lotion in a nice hotel and felt very fancy afterwards? That’s what The Handmade Soap Company’s Lemongrass and Cedar range invokes for me. Set up in Slane to be a kind skincare company, all of the products are beautifully made from natural ingredients and sustainably packaged.
www.thehandmadesoapcompany.ie
Moments Bath and Beauty
Made in Meath, Moments Bath and Beauty produces luxury products including soaps, bath soaks and salts, sleep mists and balms and shampoo bars with natural essential oils.
www.momentsbathandbeauty.com
Ruth’s Palm Free
Ruth’s Palm Free lip balms are regularly featured on my Instagram. The lip balms are made from natural products and come in eco packaging. They are incredibly reasonably priced and definitely worth purchasing. Ruth also creates a range of soaps.
www.ruthspalmfree.com
Holos Skincare
This year I have fallen in love with Wexford based Holos Skincare. I am a big fan of This is More serum and Love your Skin facial oil; I use them every day.
www.holos.ie
Bibi Maskin
Fiona creates lovely eye masks aimed to bring about relaxation. I have previously purchased face masks from Fiona and I love them.
@bibi_maskin on Instagram
Handmade Crafts and Art
Pumpkin Lodge Crafts
Shameless plug for myself here. Using repurposed, recycled and biodegradable materials, I craft home decor, crocheted items and chopping boards. I have a selection of seasonal products with something to suit everyone from cup cosies, to wooden signs and blankets to chopping boards. This year I have released the Nollaig Box (recipe cards, cup cosy, handmade decorations and 4 prints) and Yule Box (crocheted scarf, handmade decoration, cup cosy, recipe cards and 4 prints). I can also make custom and personalised items. All income goes towards Pumpkin Lodge Animal Sanctuary and My Lovely Horse Rescue.
crafts.pumpkinlodge.ie
Fluff Beag
Creating gorgeous handmade goods from Galway, queen of knitting, Aideen makes delightful gifts and treats. I purchased two puimcíní a few years ago and they still look amazing.
www.fluffbeag.ie
Sharon Leavy
Sharon Leavy is a joy to follow on Instagram and not only is she a beacon for using her platform to highlight important issues, she’s also an incredibly talented artist. Her shop is full of cross-stitch goodness.
@sharonleavy1 on Instagram
Ciara Purdy Pictures
Ciara Purdy is a Dublin based artist creating gorgeous cross stitch pieces. Ciara’s pieces feature pop culture and profanity references and I highly recommend a visit to Ciara’s Instagram. I adore my F**k the Patriarchy piece.
@ ciarapurdypictures on Instagram
She Designs He Prints
I bought gorgeous cards and prints from She Designs He Prints over the last two years and I’ve always been delighted with them. My absolute favourite is my You’re Clucking Fantastic chicken print which hangs in my kitchen alongside the Botanic Gardens print. Alison creates beautiful art.
www.shedesignsheprints.com
Artemis Rising
Artemis Rising crafts the most stunning sustainable and eco-friendly decor. I adore the Sheela Na Gig and little ghost that I bought.
@artemisrisingshop on Instagram
Olann Nua
Dublin based Karen owns Olann Nua and knits the most gorgeous blankets and crafts beautiful gifts. There are lots of knitted goods and seasonal mugs to choose from.
www.olannnua.ie
Rotten Rouge
Eibhin from Rotten Rouge is a Dublin based artist creating gorgeous prints and tote bags. Autumn in St. Stephen’s Green and 2 ghost prints are currently hanging on my kitchen wall and I framed the Dublin ghosts card on my desk as I love it so much.
www.rottenrouge.com
Ciaraíoch
Talented artist Ciara creates fabulous prints based on Irish foklore and history. I can’t decide on my favourite but I really like Púca, Imbolc and Blackberry Picking.
www.ciaraioch.com
Hayley Mulch
Based in Cork, artist Hayley Mulch creates illustrations which are perfect for comic book fans. Prints are available online.
www.hayleymulch.com
Sassy Jac
For prints, mugs and homewares with a little edge, Sassy Jac is the small business to go to.
@sassyjac.ie on Instagram
Ogham Tree
Sustainable art and card business Ogham Tree creates beautiful pieces inspired by Ireland.
www.oghamtree.com
Homewares
Citrus and Sage
Small business Citrus and Sage is packed full of delights for your home for every season. I adore the charming and rustic products available.
www.citrussageinteriors.com
By Mimi and Martha
Based in Limerick, Mimi and Martha offer a range of beautiful lifestyle and interior products. The small business curates a collection of hand crafted items and places a focus on sustainability.
www.mimiandmartha.com
Padison & Yule
For unique collectables, gifts and treasures, Padison & Yule is the place to visit. The shop is located on College Green, Dublin.
@padisonandyule on Instagram
Mugalicious Wicklow
Caoimhe designs hand speckled mugs and has a gorgeous collection of festive delights available. There’s something for everyone.
@mugaliciouswicklow on Instagram
Onyx and Briar
Operating from Kildare, Mani creates wild, natural, seasonal and sustainable blooms and floral art.
@onyxandbriar on Instagram
DDQ Wreaths
Based in Westmeath, Debbie creates beautiful bespoke floral wreaths and designs. The wonderful Christmas collection is now available.
@ddqwreaths on Instagram
Feast of the Flowers
Created from Swords, Feast of the Flowers makes the most gorgeous handmade wreaths. There is something for everyone. @feast_of_the_flowers_ on Instagram
Lilac and posh Butterflies
Breda uses old china to create wonderful treasures. I bought the you’ve been poisoned cup and saucer and I absolutely love it. It is a great display piece for my quirky cabinet.
@lilac_and_posh_butterflies on Instagram
Huggable Home
Bringing plenty of colour to your home from Waterford, Denise creates gorgeous handmade products such as blankets and hats and also sells craft materials for your own creations.
We Make Good
We Make Good is a social enterprise to help marginalised communities. Products are designed by some of Ireland’s best designers and made by people facing social challenges who have been supported to develop valuable skills and gain employment in their craft.
www.wemakegood.ie
Irish Vintage Co-op
Every Saturday morning on Instagram, a range of vintage sellers showcase their lovely pieces. There is an abundance of pre-loved items that deserve a new home.
@irishvintagecoop on Instagram
Irish Vintage Seller
Sharon has a collection of lovely vintage items. I bought the most beautiful bathroom set a few months ago and a gorgeous gift for someone last week.
@irishvintageseller
Donegal Vintage
Another wonderful vintage business to purchase from is Donegal Vintage. During the summer I bought a stunning vintage hen holder and 3 small churns which I painted.
@donegalvintage
Faerly
Eco gift business Faerly is a treasure trove of sustainable Irish brands. There are a number of gift boxes in a range of prices which contain treats, native Irish seeds, beauty products, candles and other homewares. I received a Faerly box from a friend and it was a truly lovely gift.
www.faerly.ie
Pretty Little Homewares
Based in Wicklow, Pretty Little Homewares has some gorgeous seasonal pieces with plenty of cute and charming pieces.
www.prettylittlehomewares.com
Ediana Dolan Interiors
Colour expert and interior designer Ediana Dolan hosts workshops in Galway showing people how to transform their space with colour. Her colour psychology insights are fascinating. The next workshop is on the 25th of November in Clarinbridge and would make a great early Christmas present.
www.edianadolaninteriors.com
Well-being and Self Care
The Spooky Witch
This is the first shameless plug for my own business in this section. A few months ago I wrote and released The Spooky Witch collection which consists of the Spooky Witch Journal, the Spooky Witch Recipe Cards and the Spooky Witch Wisdom Cards. Are all are created with love, care and sustainability in mind. A tree is planted for every journal sold. My Spooky Christmas Box is now available with the full collection and 4 prints.
www.laineynimhordha.com
Constellations Therapy
Next plug, in my day job I’m a fully qualified Psychotherapist, Counsellor, Reiki Master and Coach. I have just launched a Chakra Balancing Programme which is online and offers lifetime access. It makes a great gift and at the moment it is part of an introductory offer of just €25.
www.constellationstherapy.ie
Lámh Clinic
Galway based Fiona operates Lámh Clinic which offers a range of wonderful holistic treatments. A sound bath meditation recording makes a lovely gift. Fiona also makes a range of balms and oils and will soon have a Brigid diary available which I’m very excited about.
www.lamhclinic.ie
Mariana Saad Astrology
Astrologist Mariana Saad specialises in hellenistic astrology. If someone in your life is interested in astrology, then a session with Mariana is a must.
www.marianasaadastrology.com
Atlantic Aromatics
I use different oils for different purposes around my home and Atlantic Aromatics are my absolute favourite. Operating from Wicklow, all of the oils are sustainably harvested.
www.atlanticaromatics.com
Rosemount Mill
Based in Nenagh, Rosemount Mill is the home of pretty creations, producing greeting cards, planners, affirmation cards and inspirational messages. I adore the affirmations As Gaeilge cards and have them on display in my room.
@rosemountmill on Instagram
Soul Purpose
Kevina creates mindfulness and heartfelt prints and gifts. Created in Cork, these pieces are designed to promote positive self talk.
@soulpurpose.ie on Instagram
This Irish Witch
From tarot readings to courses, there is a range of beautiful gifts available from This Irish Witch. I was lucky enough to join Stacey for an online Tarot course which was not just informative but an absolute delight.
@this_irish_witch on Instagram.
Soul Saol Holistics
To add some relaxation to your Instagram feed, I recommend Soul Saol Holistics. Operating from Kerry, Ella offers a blend of yoga, aromatherapy and self-care stocking fillers.
www.soulsaolholistics.com
Books
Kenny’s Bookshop
There is no need or reason to purchase from a certain online giant this Christmas (or ever). Kenny’s Bookshop is a prime example of the amazing book shops we have in Ireland. I started purchasing from Kenny’s during the summer of 2020 and have placed numerous orders since. There is a great range of books and free postage on everything.
www.kennys.ie
Buy the Book
Offering a wide range of books to suit all tastes from independent authors, Buy the Book has something for everyone.
www.buythebook.ie
Leah Egan, Finicky Heart
Children’s author Leah Egan has created Smokie the Dragon / An Dragan Lasán for 3-8 year olds. The book is available in Irish and English and explores themes of friendship, bravery, fantasy and kindness. Smokie the dragon lives a lonely life. Alone in her cave, she wishes for a friend. Then one day an unexpected visitor comes her way. Will Smokie be brave enough to embark on a fun and magical adventure through the skies?
@finicky_heart on Instagram
Beauty
Blank Canvas Cosmetics
I have long been a fan and supporter of Blank Canvas Cosmetics from their brushes to palettes. Run by the kind, talented and generally lovely Una, Blank Canvas is a pillar of the Irish beauty industry. There are brushes galore to choose from as well as a whole range of vegan products.
www.blankcanvascosmetics.com
Zinc
I am very fortunate to have a hairdresser that understands my odd ways and my need for very big and very long hair. Lisa from Zinc is the embodiment of talent and makes a visit to her salon in Kilmainham an absolute joy as do all of her staff. Buy a voucher for Zinc to make someone very happy this Christmas.
www.zinchairandbeauty.com
Caroline’s Beauty Room
Speaking of talent, it would be impossible not to mention the artist that is Caroline Carrick. I’m constantly blown away by how one person can be so creative and produce such detail on a nail.
www.carolinesbeautyroom.com
Our Salon
Our Salon is based in Ratoath, Meath and is owned by the gorgeous Fearghal and Derek. On your arrival to the salon you will meet the wonderful and welcoming Ferghal before being introduced to your stylist.
www.oursalon.ie
Food
Folláin
If you likes jams and relishes then the only place to purchase from is Folláin. This family run business produces delicious vegan treats including cranberry sauce. There is an option on the website to build a box of products which makes a lovely gift. A favourite in my home is the tomato relish.
www.follain.ie
Wild Irish Seaweeds
Not only have I added seaweed to my skincare routine, I’ve also added it to my diet and I love it. There are lovely seaweed sets from Irish Wild Seaweeds and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed adding seaweed to almost everything I eat.
www.wildirishseaweeds.com
Isle of Crackers
Made in Wexford, these gorgeous heart-shaped artisan crackers are created with seeds and organic ingredients. They are beautifully packed and would make a lovely addition to any Christmas food hamper or indeed a hamper of lots of Irish goodies.
@isleofcrackers on Instagram
East Coast Bakehouse
Drogheda biscuit bakers East Coast Bakehouse have a range of delicious biscuits and cookies available including three vegan options. Again, these are a great idea or adding to a Christmas food hamper.
www.eastcoastbakehouse.com
Chocolatey Clare
Clare produces luxurious vegan and gluten free chocolate treats, offering a range of flavours including lemon crunch, salted peanut, strawberry and mint creme (my personal favourite).
www.chocolateyclare.com
Clothing and Accessories
Ruby Robin Boutique
Cork based designer Khrystyna is the talent behind Ruby Robin Boutique, a botanical jewellery brand. Ruby Robin Boutique creates the most beautiful pieces including my favourite silver pumpkin necklace. I have also purchased a silver blackberry necklace and oak hoop earrings which I adore.
www.rubyrobinboutique.com
Vintage Irish Dresser
Working with vintage coins, Aine creates gorgeous pieces of jewellery ranging from necklaces to cufflinks. I purchased a 50p necklace from Vintage Irish Dresser last year and I’m delighted with it. Aine’s pieces are very special and would make a gorgeous Christmas gift.
@vintageirishdresser on Instagram
Janice Byrne Goldsmith
Dublin based jewellery designer Janice makes the most wonderful pieces using various metals and gemstones. I recently purchased a full moon necklace which is beautiful.
www.janicebyrnegoldsmith.com
Aoife O’Broin
Aoife O’Broin is a designer producing handmade clothing from Mornington. Each piece created by Aoife is made to order and follows her ethos of slow fashion to fit everyone. From simple linens to colourful geometric prints, Aoife creates one of a kind masterpieces.
www.aoifeobroin.com
Thomp2 Socks
The wonderful Thomas with the help of his father Finbar, operates a trendy sock business which not only raises awareness for Autism and Down Syndrome, it also donates a percentage of its profits to St. John of God hospital. Purchasing from Thomp2 socks is helping Thomas live his dream of having a job.
www.thomp2.com
Paula Loves Vintage
Based in Galway, Paula stocks and sells gorgeous vintage pieces. I have purchased a purple cape from Paula that is from the late 1960s / early 1970s and it is truly amazing as well as a late 1980s dress which makes me feel like part of The Golden Girls.
@paulalovesvintage on Instagram
Vertigo Vintage
Operating from Dublin, Maeve offers a treasure trove of vintage delights. I bought a 90 year old purple kimono last year which is fabulous.
www.vertigovintage.com
Framing Harley Creations
If spooky decor is your thing (it is definitely mine!), then you’ll find plenty of goodies from Framing Harley Creations, from signs to coasters and bags to jewellery, there is plenty to choose from.
www.framingharleycreations.com
Hobbies
The Organic Centre
Based in Leitrim, The Organic Centre is a charity which promotes education in sustainable living and growing. They host community workshops, a cafe and a zero waste shop. Their seeds are fantastic as they come in recycled packaging and are reasonably priced. I have purchased a number of seed packs over the last year which has allowed me to grow a vegetable patch.
www.theorganiccentre.ie
The Rediscovery Centre
In a previous job, I was fortunate enough to visit The Rediscovery Centre on a regular basis. Located in Ballymun in a repurposed boiler house, The Rediscovery Centre offers a host of treasures and services. In terms of Christmas purchases, there is a range of upcycled bicycles that are in perfect condition that are reasonably priced. There is also a home and living section showcasing the best of eco-friendly and Irish made goods. There are also craft items, paints and hobby items available.
www.rediscoverycentre.ie
Polamad
Mr. Pumpkin is a keen photographer and has purchased pre-loved Polaroid cameras from Polamad. All of the cameras are in perfect working order and are a more sustainable option than buying brand new cameras.
Pets
K9 Kim
K9 Kim offers a boarding service for rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters and pygmy hedgehogs. Your little one will be showered with lots of love and attention and be treated like part of the family. Kim also offers dog walking and minding services.
www.k9kim.ie
Animal Healing Lisa Tully
Lisa has been working with animals for over 10 years, helping them heal with her holistic treatments. Lisa offers a membership group where each month she offers an online talk on various aspects of animal care. A membership to Lisa’s group would be an ideal present for animal lovers.
www.animalhealing.ie
Acid Witch Designs
Sarah from Acid Witch makes lovely hand sewn items including pet accessories. There is a range of seasonal collars available so your fur baby can be included in the festivities.
@acidwitchdesigns on Instagram
Rachel Gleasure Art
Talented artist Rachel Gleasure draws the most wonderful pet portraits. I was lucky enough to get a picture of some of my babies a few years ago that I treasure.
@rachelgleasureartist on Instagram
Dogs in Distress
Dogs in Distress is an organisation which is very close to my heart. There are usually various fudraisers over Christmas so please keep an eye out. Last year gorgeous dog beds made from recycled materials were available.
www.dogsindistress.org
Little Woofers Dog Training
There are great training sessions available for your furry friend and the lovely people in Little Woofers often run online sessions in aid of Dogs in Distress. I was delighted with the sessions I attended during the year on separation anxiety and recall.
www.littlewoofersdogtraining.ie
Cloud Canine
Based in Clogherhead, Cloud Canine offers dog grooming for all breeds. The small business also makes dog bandanas.
@cloudcaninex on Instagram
The Donkey Sanctuary
In September 2020, two gorgeous boys, Gustav and Ludwig came to live with us from The Donkey Sanctuary. We are in love with them and they are such sweet and gentle souls. The Donkey Sanctuary has an adoption pack for €25 which consists of care in the sanctuary for a donkey for one year and a certificate and drawn picture for the recipient.
www.adoptadonkey.ie
My Lovely Horse Rescue
Last year, kittens Salem and Binx came to us from My Lovely Horse. The work done by My Lovely Horse Rescue is amazing and they will be hosting various markets over Christmas. Don’t forget 10% of profits on all sales from Pumpkin Lodge Crafts is donated to My Lovely Horse.
www.mylovelyhorserescue.com
Hedgehog Rescue Dublin
Hedgehog Rescue Dublin is another organisation very close to my heart. Our gorgeous pygmy hedgehogs Perseus, Peanut and Pickles came from them. Yvonne cares for wild hedgehogs and surrendered pygmy hedgehogs and goes above and beyond for them. The aim is to rehabilitate hedgehogs to return them to the wild. There are sponsorship packs available each Christmas which include gorgeous handmade hedgehog items.
www.hedgehogrescuedublin.com
Kids / Parents
Bump and Cradle
Nicky is an incredibly knowledgeable and experienced antenatal teacher and doula. She is the go-to person for all things baby. A gift of one of Nicky’s courses for an expectant parent in your life would be invaluable. Nicky also runs a maternity concierge service and a present of her service would be welcomed by any new parent.
www.bumpandcradle.ie
Jiminy
Based in Limerick, eco-friendly toy shop Jiminy offers hundreds of sustainable gifts. It is the perfect place to toy shop this year.
www.jiminy.ie
Experiences
Simplified Social Media
Karen McCarthy is the most knowledgeable person on the planet when it comes to all things social media and business. I recently completed OBA 2.0 with Karen which has been the most invaluable experience for starting my small business. If you or a friend wants to start off with learning more about Instagram for a personal project, craft page, small business etc., then Karen’s Instagram Bootcamp is the perfect gift.
www.thesimplifiedsocialmedia.com
Irish with Mollie
If you want to improve on your Irish or you’re a complete beginner, Irish with Mollie is for you. Múinteoir Mollie offers online classes which can be completed at your own pace. I purchased a place on this course during the summer.
www.irishwithmollie.com
I’d like to suggest buying an extra gift and donating it to Direct Provision, a homeless charity, SVP, someone in need etc. There are loads of charities selling Christmas cards and handmade gifts to raise money. The last few years have been particularly hard for charities so please consider supporting some of Ireland’s fantastic organisations.
I’m sure I’ve left out loads of businesses so I will keep updating the list. I firmly believe that we should all be purchasing from local businesses this year, particularly small ones. Please let me know of any great local small, eco-friendly, vegan, sustainable businesses to feature and indeed support.
