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 upated from last year.
Candles
Cailleach Candles
Nola makes the most amazing vegan candles inspired by myth and magic. As evident from my Instagram, I’m a huge fan of Nola’s work. Her sabbat boxes are gorgeous and something I look forward to. Green Witch is my absolute favourite scent but everything that Nola creates is gorgeous and both Yule and Winter Solstice would make perfect Christmas gifts. www.cailleachcandles.com
Emma’s So Naturals
Emma creates a range of candles, wax melts and oils which are simply gorgeous. Her handmade and vegan products have long been a favourite in my home. As well as candles, Emma also runs a zero waste market on her site with lots of lovely eco-friendly gift ideas. Pomander is a go to Christmas scent. www.emmas.ie
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!). She creates hampers and has a gorgeous Christmas collection available right now. www.cauldroncandlesireland.com
The Goddess Essence
Sorcha of The Goddess Essence creates beautiful vegan candles and potions made with magickal intentions and infused soy wax. There is also a range of mystical jewellery, oracle and tarot cards and divination tools available both online and in her witchery emporium in Trim, Co. Meath. www.thegoddessessence.eu
Triple Moon Rituals
Creator Lauren makes gorgeously adorned vegan candles inspired by folklore. All products and crytals are conciously sourced. @tripplemoonrituals.x on Instagram
Wickcraft & Wickery
Dani produces beautiful wax melts which are cruelty-free and vegan as well as stunning foil prints. I recently purchased a Practical Magic print and I adore it. There are Christmas specific foils and melts which would make a gorgeous gift. @wickcraftandwickery on Instagram
Bath and Skincare
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 as well as her beautiful Rose perfume. 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
Witch Crafts Ireland
Pumpkin Spice scrub from Witch Crafts Ireland is one of my favourite shower products. It smells and feels lovely. There is a host of lip balms, bath bombs and gorgeous bath trays available from Irish Witch Crafts. www.witchcrafts.ie
The Burren Perfumery
Based in Claire, 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. www.burrenperfumery.com
Soap and Bubbles
Soap and Bubbles is a Galway based company selling bath bombs and bath products which don’t stain your bath and don’t cost a fortune. I stocked up on purple witch hat bath bombs over Halloween and I loved them. www.soapandbubbles.eu
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 noursihing, 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 her 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
Crafts, Art and Home
Not Just Hats
Operating from Dublin, Not Just Hats provides tea cosies that are of great quality and great entertainment value. I have bought a number of tea cosies from Not Just Hats including my beloved pumpkin one which is housed in my kitchen, permanently on display. @not_just_hats on Instagram
MooMoo Knits
I found MooMoo Knits through Drogheda’s Cottage Market virtual event. Audrey creates an abundance of lovely knitwear including Michael Tea Higgins tea cosies. I purchased on last year for my parents and they were delighted; Michael Tea has a permanent place in thier kitchen. @moomooknits on Instagram
Fluff Beag
Creating gorgeous handmade goods from Galway, Aideen makes delightful gifts and treats. I purchased two pumpkins last October and I was very happy with them. 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
Pumpkin Lodge Crafts
Slight shameless plug for myself here (the first of three!). I make headpieces, jewellery, face masks, crocheted crafts and chopping boards. Most of my items are made from recycled products. All profits go towards Pumpkin Lodge Animal Sanctuary. crafts.pumpkinlodge.ie
She Designs He Prints
I bought gorgeous cards and prints from She Designs He Prints over the last year or so and I’ve always been delighted with them. My abolute favourite is my You’re Clucking Fantastic chicken print which hangs in my kitchen. Alison creates beautiful art. www.shedesignsheprints.com
Jando
Julie and Owen create prints from their studio in Dublin. I recently purchased a City Hall print from them and I love it. www.jandodesign.com
Artemis Rising
Artemis Rising crafts the most stunning sustainable and eco-frinedly decor. A personal favourite of mine is the Tarot card resin trays. @artemisrisingshop on Instagram
Away with the Fairies
If you’re in the market for very cute gifts, then Away with the Fairies is for you. I bought a solar pumpkin fairy house in early Autumn and it is adorable. Fairy maker Rachel is based in Galway. www.awaywiththefairies.ie
Twisted Kacey
Based in Dublin, Karen creates luxurious knitwear. Twisted Kacey is currently offering the most adorable handmade small Christmas trees which would make a lovely gift. @twistedkacey on Instagram
Lilly’s Eco Clean
The products from Lilly’s Eco Clean are amazing and a firm favourite in our home. All of the products are designed for health, home and the planet. Hampers are available. www.lillysecoclean.com
Air Plants Ireland
There is no easier plant to care for than an air plant. They make a gorgeous addition to any space and I’m thrilled with my two jelly fish plant babies which I purchased earlier in the year. They really would make a lovely gift. www.airplantsireland.ie
A Berry Charmed Life
There are no words to describe the talent of the cutest couple – The Gorman Berrys. Their Instagram page is an absolute delight and their home decor signs are a thing of beauty. @aberrycharmedlife on Instagram
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
Bibi Maskin
Fiona creates lovely and comfortble face masks. From sequins to the Golden Girls, there is a design and print for everyone. I have 6 masks from Fiona and I love them. @bibi_maskin on Instagram
Sew Olly
Based in Galway, Olly creates gorgeous handmade gifts including face maks, scrunchies and tote bags. Also there is plenty of dancing on the Sew Olly Instagam page and that’s always fun. @sew_olly on Instagram
Sweet Lavender Chili Flakes
Operating from Dublin, Sweet Lavender Chilli Flakes encourages a move away from disposbale items with a range of period products, cleansing wipes and sustainable underwear. www.sweetlavenderchilliflakes.com
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.
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 and picked up a few beautiful pieces for both Halloween and Christmas. www.citrussageinteriors.com
Jodi May Vintage
I love a vintage piece and there are gorgeous household items available from Jodi May Vintage. I recently purchased a ceramic hen for my kitchen that I love. @jodimayvintage on Instagram
Saturday Morning Vintage
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. @sat.morn.vintage 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
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
Well-being
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, afffirmation cards and inspiratonal messages. I adore the affirmations As Gaeilge cards and have them on display in my room. @rosemountmill on Instagram
Lunasa Yoga
I’ve said it before but Lunasa Yoga kept me going last year. I do not have a flexible or coordinated bone in my body but somehow the wonderul Niamh and Clara Talbot had me practicing on my yoga mat most days. Lunasa Yoga is an online yoga service operating from Dublin. I have enjoyed every minute of my time with the yogi sisters. Purchasing a one month subscription to Lunasa Yoga would make a gorgeous gift. @lunasayoga on Instagram
This Irish Witch
From tarot readings and courses to anxiety reducing herbal blends, there is a range of beautiful and mindful gifts available from This Irish Witch. I was lucky enought to join Stacey for an online Tarot course which was not just informtive but an absolute delight. @this_irish_witch on Instagram.
Soul Nudges
Nobody possesses journaling skills quite like Nathalie. Fans of the Soul Nudges instagram account will delight in Nathalie’s regular journaling prompts. The beautiful Roots guided journal is now available to purchase. www.soul_nudges.com
Constellations Coaching and Wellness
In my day job I’m a fully qualified counsellor, pyshotherpist, spiritual coach, chakra healer and reiki master. I offer a range of healing sessions and tools which can be delivered online. Treating someone to a reiki or coaching session would make a wonderful and lasting gift. www.constellationscoachingndwellness.com
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
Booktastion
Offering a wide range of book to suit all tastes, Bookstation has something for everyone. There is a bargain shop on their site where I have picked up some great books. Delivery is free over €10. www.bookstation.ie
Irish Authors
There are a few great Irish books which I have read over the last few months and highly recommend, An Irish Nature Year by Jane Power, Beautiful World Where are You, Sally Rooney and Precious Catastophe by Deirdre O’Sullivan.
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
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 and a soap and lip balm from Ruth will most certainly bring a smile to anyone this Christmas. www.ruthspalmfree.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. Unfortunately I haven’t been able to attend for two years now thanks to Covid so Lisa can expect Cousin Itt when I can finally return. 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. I missed Caroline this year as I usually visit her for some Halloween nails. Make sure to purchase a voucher for her beauty room in Rush or purchase from her online shop. 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
Literary Lip Balms
Combining a love of literature and quality eco friendly products, Literary Lip Balms create beautiful balms. I received a gitft of Sugar Plum Fairy last year and I loved it. www.literarylipbalms.com
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
Food
Nourish
Nourish is a family run business selling natural and organic products. Last year as part of their Christmas range they sold a vegan selection box with six full size vegan and gluten free goodies. I purchased some for gifts but I ended up eating most of them. I hope they are available again this year. www.nourish.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
Treat Yo Self Vegan Sweets
Set up by two chidlren Harry and Jack, Treat You Self offers vegan sweets that are kind to animals and the planet from their home in Meath. They also offer gluten free vegan sweets which is great for people like me. There is currently a Get2Give intiative where you can buy two large bags of 800g sweets and a third bag is donated to Temple Street and Crumlin. www.treatyoself.ie
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
Vegan Grocery Co
For an online vegan supermarket, look no further than the Vegan Grocery Co. There are so many delicious goodies to choose from. I have just purchased a chocolate bomb hot chocolate set as well as a few other treats that I will pretend are for presents but really I’ll eat them all myself. www.vegangrocery.co
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. I adore mint chocolate so I have ordered some bars to try as well as salted peanut. www.chocolateyclare.com
Clothing and Accessories
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
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 tresure trove of vintage delights. I bought a 90 year old purple kimono during the 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
Wandering Soul Jewellery
Ethical crystal seller Wandering Soul Jewellery creates goegeous pieces and accessories made with love and magic. I have bought serveral crystal bracelets and I’m delighted with them. www.wanderingsouljewellery.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 Ballmyun 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
Pumpkin Pet Lodge
This is my last shameless plug but the Pumpkin Pet Lodge is our new venture. We recently sold up our life in Blanchardstown and moved to the countryside to set up an animal sanctuary. The Pumpkin Lodge Animal Sanctuary is home to over 40 animals including dogs, cats, hedgehogs, guinea pigs, a horse, donkeys, rabbits, pigs, sheep, hens and ducks. To help with our costs and to offer an enjoyable holiday to little furries, we have set up our pet boarding service for small animals. The Pumpkin Pet Lodge will offer luxury accommodation to your animals where they will be provided with lots of love and attention and be treated like part of our family. We will have a number of Christmas packages available. www.thepumpkinpetlodge.com
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 serperation anxiety and recall. www.littlewoofersdogtraining.ie
Cloud Canine
Based in Clogherhead, Cloud Canine offers dog grooming for all breeds. The small business also makes face masks and dog bandanas so why not purchase a matching set for walks? @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
This year, kittens Salem and Binx came to our Pumpkin Lodge Animal Sanctuary from My Lovely Horse. The work done by My Lovely Horse Rescue is amazing and they will be hosting various markets over Christmas. www.mylovelyhorserescue.com
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. Before I run the risk of being fully immersed in capitalism, 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 two years have been particularly hard for charities so please consider supporting some of Ireland’s fantastic organisations.
Please let me know of any great local small, eco-friendly, vegan, sustainable businesses to feature and indeed support.
