Whether you're a Christmas eve shopper racing up Grafton Street to get a last minute deal, or a smug planner who has their gifts under the tree in time for the opening number of The Late Late Toy Show, buying for loved ones can be exceptionally tricky.
Every year on RTÉ LifeStyle, we lend a helping hand by sharing an all-Irish gift guide to shine a light on just some of the incredible artists, jewellers, designers, authors, and entrepreneurs that this country has to offer.
With the countdown to Christmas well and truly on, we want to ensure that you reduce your carbon footprint and support local entrepreneurs while you search for that special something.
CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES
A family-run business, The Sweater Shop has outlets around Ireland and uses 100% Irish wool in their designs. The most popular sellers are their traditional Aran jumpers which come in a range of different designs, colours and sizes. The Pure Wool Unisex Aran Sweater Oatmeal Fleck is €49.99 (was €99.90).
Nestled in the heart of Dublin's city centre, Fresh Cuts was launched in 2015, offering original designs made from organic materials. An independent family business, the brand is driven by Lorna and Steven, a husband and wife duo who claim an unwavering commitment to sustainability and style. The 'Burst of Flower' cardigan is €89.95.
Founded by commercial pilot and mum of three Susan Furniss Radley, Dust + Rock came about following an epic back packing trip around South America. Noticing a gap in the market for practical and functional accessories, the Waterford woman created wearable purses and foldable totes. The Pocket Tote Bag is €11.99.
Fiadh is a textile designer and handweaver with a passion for traditional methods and contemporary design. Based in Dingle, the NCAD graduate draws inspiration from her scenic surroundings to create clothing inspired by nature. With sustainability in mind, the designer's ethos is all about creating something beautiful that is made to last. Her scarves range from €39 - €155.
Athlone woman Sarah Quain came up with the idea of Craic Galore Prints from the confines of her bedroom during the lockdown of December 2020. She began by creating quirky prints and greeting cards with an Irish spin, but has since expanded into the world of mugs, tote bags, calendars, and cosy jumpers. The 'A Bag Full Of Notions' tote costs €10.
Arklow artist Stephen Considine is a founding member of clothing brand BiPolar Bear Wear. Collaborating with artists from across the country, he delivers "fresh clothing" while raising money for mental health services and fighting the stigma surrounding mental health. This year, BPB has collaborated with graphic designer Claire Prouvost, with profits going to the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre. The limited Breather t-shirt is €30.
Galway artist Barbara Bennett (who you may recognise from RTÉ's New Money) creates bespoke hand-painted shoe designs. Bennett's colourful pieces gained traction last year, and were eventually picked up by Brown Thomas' CREATE - an annual exhibition of up-and-coming Irish designers. You can order a pair or pick up a Sneakart DIY kit for €30.
Launched in 2018 at Dublin's Chocolate Factory, Native Denim came about due to the demand for quality and sustainable garments. 'Master Maker' Susan Owens brings her 35 years of industry knowledge to Native Denims, using vintage machines to produce exceptional jeans. These jeans have a five year guarantee, after which time they can be altered or repaired if required. Gift vouchers available online.
The brainchild of Cork women Vicki O'Callaghan and Michelle O'Riordan, BabyBoo was founded in 2014 when the two mums struggled to find quality clothing for kids suffering with eczema and reflux. They now have a large range of children's clothing, bibs and blankets. Their personalised Christmas bib is made of organic cotton and costs €10.
Havin' the craic from head to toe, this novelty company might just have the perfect gift for himself. Galway women Alex and Joanna have launched the most Irish socks on the market. From 'Bye Bye Bye' and 'the best mammy' to custom designs, these socks will guarantee a pair of happy feet. They even have some particularly stylish pairs thanks to a collaboration with mural artist Shane O'Malley. The Cliffs of Moher socks cost €9.
JEWELLERY
Created in 2021 by Dublin designer Shauna Burke, Croía jewellery has a wide range of contemporary pieces made to elevate your style. From cute claw clips to pendant necklaces, you're sure to find the perfect thing for under the tree. The gold 'Hug Me' ring is €29.95
Born and raised in Chile but living in Ireland since 2011, Ale started her journey into fashion design when she moved to the Philippines in 2006. Inspired by her travels, her pieces celebrate colour, texture and creativity. Based in Dublin, her sacred heart earrings are patiently hand beaded with MIYUKI beads and Czech crystals. This red pair costs €65.
Handcrafted with love in Kilkenny by jeweler Gemma O'Leary, Inner Island offers up quality pieces made by skilled silversmiths using a combination of ancient metalworking and modern technologies. The building block necklace comes in gold vermeil, sterling silver and 9ct yellow gold and costs €60.
Originally from South Africa, artist Rieleen has now settled in Ireland with her husband in Clondrohid, Co. Cork, where she handmakes her polymer clay and mixed media jewellery. Her statement pieces are unique, environmentally conscious, and affordable. These dainty dangling daisy earrings are €18.
Inspired by mindfulness, Northern Irish designer Sinéad Hegarty has created a range of subtle and stylish spinner rings that will help you find your centre and stay grounded in your daily life. The 'Patience' ring is €55.
Inspired by the spiritual practices of Reiki and Seichim, Irish designer Lyndsey Cavanagh felt compelled to create pieces that give something precious to the wearer. Worn by famous faces, including comedian Joanne McNally, the brand has become known for their range of chunky gold necklaces. The mini cuban necklace costs €45.
Based in Ennis, Co. Clare, Blackbird is a boutique-style jewellery store owned by Katie Rogers. Home to contemporary pieces from Irish and European designers alike, you're bound to find something fabulous for your special someone. The Girl Power bracelet costs €25.
These affordable and unique pieces of "charmingly rude jewellery" are made with attitude. Each piece is hand stamped in Ireland and made with sass by Jade, a self-confessed grumpy Irish 30-something who enjoys "a good whiskey and swearing like a sailor". The 'Sure Look Be Grand' necklace is €26.
Since earning her degree in sculpture almost 20 years ago, Sarah Carroll Kelly has worked as an artist, designer and musician, all while living in Dublin 8 with her husband, two sons and two cats. Under her brand Shock of Grey, the artist is creating handcrafted statement jewellery on an individual basis from unpredictable materials, such as wood, brass, plastic, silicone and clay. The Tube necklace is €39.
Created by Ali, a designer and maker from Dublin, A Littte Idea is home to laser cut acrylic statement jewellery. Inspired by decades past, each pair of dangly earrings are named after fashion icons like Grace Jones and Debbie Harry. Using green-cast acrylic and other recycled materials, Ali keeps her brand as sustainable as possible. A pair of 'Ru Paul' earrings cost €42.
COSMETICS
This hair hero may well be the perfect stocking stuffer. The Smooth Company came about when founder Aine Kennedy noticed a gap in the market and came up with a cruelty-free formula to control flyaways and baby hairs. Enriched with biotin, vitamin E, and aloe vera, the smooth stick costs €16.99.
SOSU Cosmetics has announced a highly anticipated collaboration with Bonnie Ryan just in time for the Christmas season. Whether you're looking for the perfect stocking filler or Secret Santa gift, the collection has plenty on offer. The SOSU x Bonnie Ryan Liquid Blush costs €16.95.
In September 2021, Waterford woman Lynn Shead enrolled in an apprenticeship in community herbalism with The Plant Medicine school. Inspired by her own battles with sensitive skin, she created a range of products made with natural ingredients. The One For All Balm can be used on everything from cuts and burns to stings and dry skin. It costs between €17- €26.
Based in Maynooth, Co. Kildare, Janni Bars are handmade using natural ingredients such as coconut oil, sweet almond oil, Irish rapeseed oil, cocoa butter, mango butter and more. They have soap, shampoo and conditioner bars as well as lip and body balms. The Honey Balm is €9.99.
With its name coming from the Irish 'cluain caoin', meaning 'splendid meadow', this perfumer is uniquely Irish. Having met while working on a film set in the West of Ireland, founders Margaret Mangan and Julian Checkley say that the inspiration for their brand comes from Galway, Connemara, and the West of Ireland at large. The 100ml Róisín Dub scent is €130.
Founded by Aimee Connolly at just 23 years of age, Sculpted By Aimee has grown exponentially during its initial years. As a make-up artist herself, the Dublin woman has worked hard to create a line of high-quality cosmetics, brushes, and skincare. The famed Beauty Base costs €25.
As well as being a TV presenter, stylist, fashion journalist and former Dancing with the Stars contestant, Darren Kennedy has a beautiful skincare range that includes moisturising gels, beard oils and peat scrubs. The gift set (Matte Hair Clay, Daily Moisturiser with SPF 20, Purifying Peat Face Scrub) costs €23.88.
Based in Co. Meath, Whipped2Glow cosmetics started out as a mission to find a solution to irritable, dry skin and unpredictable flare ups. Founded by sisters Masindi and Denga Phiriga, this holistic, hand–made butter is whipped up from natural ingredients. The Original Lemon Essential costs between €15 – €55.
Founder Amy Cahill's background in health and wellness led her on a journey to create her skincare brand, Oxmantown. Based in Dublin's Stoneybatter, all of her products are handmade in small batches using high quality, organic, and active botanical ingredients. The Hydrating Facial Cream with Rosehip & Vitamin E costs €29.99
Founded in 2019 by Monaghan make-up artist and TikTok star Keilidh Cashell, Kash Beauty has grown from strength to strength since conception. The brand offers up everything from fake lashes and brushes to blushers and bronzers. The Watermelon Kiss Lip Oil is a great stocking stuffer or Secret Santa gift at €14.95.
HOMEWARE
Established in 2010 by husband and wife team, Ed and Tara Hammond, this family-run luxury homeware brand is based in Dublin. Using artisan techniques and methods, each piece of slate is handcrafted using a family heirloom - a 150 year-old knife that has been passed down through generations. They have cheeseboards, candle holders, and tableware on offer. The Heart Cheese Board costs €58.
Founded by twin sisters Ciara and Rachel Howard, Howrad Studios is a Dublin-based lifestyle brand that offers up a range of dreamy gift ideas, ranging from eye-catching artwork to disco cowgirl mirrors. The Retro Cowboy Hat Mirror from Printed Weird costs €33.
As an eco-conscious vegan, designer Karla Finnegan packs her made-to-order pieces in plastic-free packaging from her base in Offaly. Running since 2019, Finnegan handles every order with care and can often add a personal touch to make your gift extra special. This Irish Nostalgia Mug costs €14.
A small shop with an unusual name, My Shop...granny likes it is based on Upper Abbeygate Street in Galway. Home to the best of contemporary art, craft and design, the space is dedicated to celebrating and supporting homegrown talent. They have a gorgeous set of Christmas decorations from Irish artists including this porcelain hoop ornament from Dublin studio Karo. €16.25.
American woman Jamie Monagan has been living in Co. Cork with her husband and three children since early 2000. Inspired by favourite cotton throw, as well as the surroundings of her new home, the Connecticut native decided to create Loominations in 2015. Her pieces are made by skilled craftspeople on a state-of-the-art, computer-driven jacquard loom. The Wild Swimming throw costs €159.
Inspired by her scenic surroundings in West Cork, florist-turned-artist Fiona Scott handmakes each of her unique pieces. In 2021, she was recognised for her sustainable functional art by Theo Paphitis of BBC's Dragon Den by being one of his winners of his Small Business Sunday award. She has resin clocks, jewellery, artwork, cheeseboards and more on offer. This Golden Metal Serving Tray costs €60.
Aoife Slattery is a ceramics artist who graduated from the Limerick School of Art and Design in 2013. Her studio is based in Ballymorris, where she works primarily with white earthenware clay, using an unusual printing process to create her stylish designs. This handcrafted Planter is €36.
Created by Nicola McGuinness, Rowan Beg Design Studios is a family-run business based on the edge of Connemara. Having studied Graphic Design in college, McGuinness creates beautiful candles, homewares and furniture. From humble beginnings in the kitchen in 2016 this little business has come a long way. A small warm gingerbread candle costs €25.
The Donegal Shop is home to a wide selection of Irish treasures, including a selection soap and loofahs, all made by hand by the Donegal Soap Company, and all Palm Oil free. The Cocoa Butter Body Moisturiser Bars comes in three scents and costs €12.
Drawing inspiration from the textures, colours, and shapes of the seaside, each of Ola Wartak-Tolak's creation are handcrafted in her Kitchen Studio, which is nestled within the historic Ardgillan Castle in Dublin. The Shell Tattoo Hex Tray costs €25.
PRINTS & CARDS
Sarah Patterson is a stay-at-home mum who launched a design business in between school runs. Based in Ballinteer, Co. Dublin, the 43-year-old NCAD graduate established her print company, Dotterson, in March last year. Her colourful prints, cups, and tea towels are bright, colourful and distinctly Irish. The 'You Are My Home' print is €20.
Inspired by some simple designs that he came across while on holidays in 2013, Aaron Dowling came up with the idea for a series of pop-up cards. Soon after, with the assistance of his partner Katie, Paperbear.ie was born. Keeping the environment in mind, the duo have teamed up non-profit organisation One Tree Planted to combat deforestation. The Christmas in Kerry card costs €4.99.
Founded by James and Eoin in Co. Kildare, while surrounded chickens and their pet cat, Faerly is home to a considered collection of everyday items from small Irish makers and eco-conscious brands. They have ethical every day items as well as gorgeous gift boxes jam packed with Irish goods. The Pickled Pom Pom cards are dreamed, designed, printed and packed in Ireland by Laura Dempsey. The 'Jingle Mix' pack costs €14.
Louise Ní Chuilinn is a self-taught artist from Dublin. Inspired by everything from big characters on reality TV to the everyday people around her, she has a range of incredible designs at a variety of prices. You can also commission her for a portrait or a custom family Christmas card. The 'Grá Mo Chroí' prints start at €22.
Wish-Penny Creations, a small Irish owned business created by Kilkenny woman Shauna Barcoe. From personalised wedding invites to pop-culture prints, the artist has plenty of products on offer. The 'taste of home' print bundle costs €15.30 (was €18).
BOOKS & GAMES FOR KIDS
Izzy's Magical Christmas Adventure
Kerry-based author Emma Larkin has recently written a series of books following the adventures of Izzy, an eight-year-old girl who lives in Ireland and loves all sport, especially camogie and Gaelic football. The character of Izzy was inspired by Larkin's grandmother, Maureen, who played on the Cork camogie team. Izzy's Magical Christmas Adventure costs €13.
Fifi Flurry and the Sleepy Snowflake
Wonderfully Weathery Books is an Irish owned business set up up to publish a series of children's picture books about a land called Weatherville - where the weather lives. The books are written by Elayne Heaney in her home of Skerries, Co. Dublin. In Fifi Flurry and the Sleepy Snowflake, readers will meet Fifi Flurry, a snow-flurry who brings the 'freeze" to the winter skies. Suitable for ages 3-6, this children's paperback picture book costs €10.
The Gollogans of Carrickgollogan
Written by Wicklow woman Helen O'Sullivan, and illustrated by David Hallangen, The Gollogans of Carrickgollogan follows the story of young gollogan Dil as she tries to overcome her scaredy-tail ways and leave the woodland. €10.
In Between Worlds: The Journey of the Famine Girls
In 1849, the Thomas Arbuthnot set sail for Australia. Onboard were 194 Irish girls. Written by Tallaght woman Nicola Pierce, this piece of historical fiction shares the story of the young Irish girls given the chance of a new life on the other side of the world. How will they find the courage and strength to build new lives in a strange land? Suitable for kids 10+. Paperback €9.99.
Written by Leon Diop and Briana Fitzsimons, the first ever book about Black Irish identity is a groundbreaking celebration of Black Irish life. This book takes a look at the inspirational careers, dreams and achievements of legends, trailblazers and everyday heroes, including Ruth Negga, Gavin Bazunu, Dami Hope, Emma Dabiri, Rhasidat Adeleke and Phil Lynott. €12.79 (was €16.80)
This Irish designed and locally manufactured board game was created by primary school teachers with the aim of offering young GAA followers a board game which contains all the classical elements of gameplay but with a Gaelic Games theme. Suitable for 2-4 players aged 7+, this board game costs €26.99.
Founded by Dublin mum Sharon Keilthy, Jiminy is Ireland's biggest and best eco-specialist toy distributor. They have a totally Irish section with books and toys imagined, designed, and physically made here in Ireland (for the lowest possible toy-miles). All items plastic-free and made of highly-sustainable materials. The colour your own Christmas Stocking from We Make Good costs €29.99 - €39.99.
Manufactured in Co. Wicklow, and founded by Cavan architect Damien Murtagh, Arckit is a fun way to open up the world of architecture to kids and parents alike. Forget 'cut and glue' models, this game allows you to create and explore designs with a 'click and connect' model. The Arckit GO Eco Model House Kit is €99.95 (was €120.00).
Perfect for ages 3+, this handcrafted Irish farm animal wooden jigsaw from Alphabet Jigsaws is a wonderful way to introduce little ones to the Irish Language. €27.95.
Released in 2021, this Irish-made board game challenges players on their Irish trivia. To win, you must answer questions correctly and avoid hazzards in order to pass your six summer tests. There are 2,700 questions across six categories, all based on school subjects. Playtime: 45 mins - 60 mins. Suitable for age six - adult. €29.95.
BOOKS FOR GROWN UPS
PJ Kirby and Kevin Twomey are two mammy's boys from Cork who are always up for a skit. The I’m Grand Mamual is Kevin and PJ’s hilarious and heart-warming ode to their mammies, Phil and Nuala. With great humour and middling advice, The I'm Grand Mamual is a big-sisterly companion that proudly celebrates embracing yourself and the uniquely Irish mother-child relationship. €14.99.
Laura de Barra, queen of the home hack, is here to help you shop for, care for and repair your clothes. New or vintage, online or high street - Laura has the tips that will ensure you buy right to begin with and maintain well for longevity. €17.99 (was €18.99).
Imagine if the everyday food you made at home, went from ordinary to extraordinary? This is Mark Moriarty's speciality. By bringing restaurant know-how home, Mark’s home cooking packs ordinary dishes so full of flavour, you just want to try them for yourself. And now you can with this exciting first cookbook. €19.99 (was €24.99).
On Silver Winds: Duet of Snow and Silver
On Silver Winds is a romantic fantasy with fairytale themes and a dash of spice written by Dublin author Ava Smiddy. A frosty story about a reluctant heir, a vengeful King, and an alliance that could ruin them both, this book is available on Kindle and paperback. Perfect for a cosy winter's evening. €13.08.
Ready to take on Ireland's most beautiful hikes in 2024? Radio broadcaster and Instagram influencer Roz Purcell has been hiking the length and breadth of Ireland for years with her enthusiastic community, The Hike Life. With this book, the Tipperary woman brings to life the beauty of hiking in Ireland along with practical advice, easy-to-follow route descriptions, and top tips.
GIFTBOXES & SUBSCRIPTIONS
The Crate's concept started in 2017, with flowers, friendship and a love of design by founders Claire Ryan and Steph Hutch. It is an online flower delivery business that offers one style of thoughtfully designed seasonal flowers, that changes every week; with free same-day delivery throughout Dublin and free next-day delivery throughout Ireland and Northern Ireland. Subscriptions vary in cost.
Avid reader and self-confessed chocoholic Aisling Finn came up with the idea of a sweet subscription service from her home in Co. Waterford. Whether you're looking for a one-off gift, or a monthly subscription, the Book Resort will deliver a brilliant new book, a large bar of chocolate and a small artisan product from a small Irish business. The Christmas Gift Box costs €38.
Each of Boxable's Christmas gift boxes are stuffed with handcrafted Irish treasures. The Christmas Cracker Box comes with an illustrated Christmas Card, a Merry Christmas Milk Chocolate Bar, a Nougat Nut Selection Christmas Cracker and an 'Irish Christmas' Candle. €32.
Inspired by the social distance during the pandemic, sisters Mags and Aisling created the concept of Hug in a Box. With a background in ecommerce and a passion for wellbeing, they started their own business in the hopes of sharing the love through the post. The Put Your Feet Up Christmas Hug in a Box costs €22.95.
Founded by Aoibhín Garrihy and Sharon Connellan, beo started as a series of wellness events that inspire, motivate and encourage self-care. Working with Ireland's leading health and wellness advocates, and partnering with brands that share their ethos, Garrihy and Connellan work to answer the needs of the modern woman. The beo artisan chocolate bar gift set costs €14.99.
THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX
As well as buying physical items, it's always nice to think outside the box when it comes to gift giving.
Plan ahead by investing in a voucher for your favourite restaurant or book a weekend away at an Irish hotel. You could also treat yourself in the present-buying process by booking you and your loved one in for a night of laughs in a comedy club, an escape room adventure, or a matinee at an independent cinema.
If you're on a tight budget, there are plenty of hidden gems to be found in charity, thrift and antique shops such as Saint Vincent de Paul, Oxfam, Enable Ireland, Nine Crows and Needful Things.
Alternatively, you could suggest that your family play Kris Kindle this year, or you could host a games night for friends where guests bring a festive dish in lieu of presents.
Whatever you do, be sure to have a very merry Christmas.
