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 handmade wax melts, candles, bath bombs (which don’t stain your bath and don’t cost a fortune) and a selction of oil and melt burners as well as seasonal mugs. Every wax melt which is made by Soap and Bubbles is both beautifully scented and presented; they are my current obsession and I can’t get enough of them. There are a range of Christmas delights this year including the Christmas selection box of melts. 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 purchased a Practical Magic print last year as well as a Twilight bundle containing a print and three melts and I adore them. There are plenty of gorgeous handmade items to choose from.
@wickcraftandwickery on Instagram
Cailleach Candles
Nola makes the most amazing vegan candles inspired by myth and magic. 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!). She creates hampers and has a gorgeous Christmas collection available right now.
www.cauldroncandlesireland.com
Triple Moon Rituals
Creator Lauren makes gorgeously adorned vegan candles inspired by folklore. All products and crystals are ethically sourced.
@tripplemoonrituals.x 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 the 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
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
Handmade Crafts, Art and Homewares
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. Aideen’s adorable snowman decorations are now on sale.
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. Using repurposed, recycled and biodegradable materials, I craft home decor, crocheted items and chopping boards. I have a range of luxury products with something to suit everyone from cup cosies, to wooden signs and blankets to chopping boards. I can also make custom and personalised items.
The money we raise from our small sustainable business goes towards our animal care with 10% of profits also going to My Lovely Horse Rescue meaning you buy a gift for yourself or someone else knowing it is going towards a good cause.
crafts.pumpkinlodge.ie
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.
@ 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
Sweet Lavender and Chili Flakes
Operating from Dublin, 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 reusables.
www.sweetlavenderchiliflakes.com
Artemis Rising
Artemis Rising crafts the most stunning sustainable and eco-friendly decor. A personal favourite of mine is the Tarot card resin trays.
@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
Bibi Maskin
Fiona creates lovely and comfortable 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
Rotten Rouge
Eibhin from Rotten Rouge is a Dublin based artist creating gorgeous prints and tote bags. The autumn in St. Stephen’s Green print is 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
Mugalicious Wicklow
Caoimhe designs hand speckled mugs and has a gorgeous collection of seasonal delights available.
@mugaliciouswicklow 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
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.
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
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
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
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 last year. They really would make a lovely gift.
www.airplantsireland.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
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 this year and it was a truly lovely gift.
www.faerly.ie
Well-being and Self Care
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
Sisterhood Journals
These gorgeous journals are created by Laura and provide an outlet for mental health journeys. The journals and brand aim to encourage and support open conversations around well-being and mental health.
www.sisterhoodjournals.com
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
Lunasa Yoga
I do not have a flexible or coordinated bone in my body but somehow the wonderful 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 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
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
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. Make sure to purchase a voucher for Caroline’s beauty room in Rush or purchase from the 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
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
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.
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
Ruby Robin Boutique
Cork based designer Khrystyna is the talent behind Ruby Robin Boutique, a botanical jewellery brand. Each stunning piece celebrates the natural world. Plants are sourced locally in small batches and displayed in eco-resin to create unique pieces of jewellery. The most recent collection of small autumnal pieces is my favourite and I was lucky enough to receive a sterling silver pumpkin necklace as a gift which I absolutely adore. I currently have my eye on the blackberry necklace and sycamore necklace. Each piece is placed in plastic free, eco-friendly packaging.
www.rubyrobinboutique.com
Cosmic Lily Pad
Creator of clay prdoucts, Cosmic Lily Pad makes the most gorgeous pumpkin (and non pumpkin) earrings. I bought 3 pairs last year and I adore them, my favourites are a purple and orange pumpkin pair.
@cosmiclilypad 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 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 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 a boarding service for rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters and pygmy hedgehogs. The Pumpkin Pet Lodge provides luxury accommodation to your animals where they will be showered with lots of love and attention and be treated like part of our family. We will be providing boarding to animals throughout the Christmas sseason.
www.thepumpkinpetlodge.com
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
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 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 and Peanut 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
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.
