We’ve rounded up some of the best destinations for your festive shopping
It may be hard to believe, but it is in fact that time of year – the festive season is upon us. There’s nothing worse than a last-minute scramble for gifts, so we say: get organised now. Get ahead of the crowds and plan your presents ahead of December, so that silly season will be just that little bit less stressful. Stuck for inspiration? Look no further than these incredible Irish shops, which offer unique, thoughtful presents for all budgets.
April & The Bear; aprilandthebear.com
This Dublin interiors and lifestyle store, found in Rathmines, stocks eclectic art prints, gifts and beautiful homewares; each product is carefully selected with the customer’s joy in mind. Stand-out gifts include decorative plates by Irish creator Paula Moen, artwork by lettering artist Rachel Joy Price and this brilliant Gay Byrne-inspired tea towel, above, by Irish maker Dotterson (€18).
Designist; designist.ie
Also located in Dublin is this gem of a shop that sells everything from interesting books, gorgeous glassware, inspiring kids’ gifts and one-of-a-kind homeware pieces – like this Smart Moon Lamp, (€185). The staff are keen to help you pick the perfect present for your loved one, and passion oozes from them about the gifts they stock.
The Old Mill Stores, theoldmillstores.ie
This gorgeous independent shop in West Cork is brimming with kitsch and colour, with a mixture of Irish and international design that you won’t find elsewhere. Among the thoughtful gifts they’re currently selling is this wonderful flower press (€29) for any budding botanists, as well as socks by Donegal brand Moss + Cable and Christmas crackers by eco friendly brand By Nature.
The Wilds; thewilds.ie
A wonderful café/lifestyle shop in Enniscorthy, Co Wexford, expect to find stand-out pieces like this necklace by Irish maker Shock of Grey (€60), sheepskin slippers made from Irish wool, sustainably-made furniture and natural, eco-friendly skincare. Venture a little further in the town and find the new Dusty Boy Designs store, the award-winning Irish brand that offers beautiful prints and wall art.
My Shop…Granny Likes It; myshopgranny.com
This adorable shop in Galway focuses on Irish-made jewellery, artwork and crafts, run by the passionate Rona O’Reilly who says her mission is to highlight the amazing work being designed and created here in Ireland. You’ll find the likes of this Donegal-made Bogman beanie (€50), fun totes bags, special gifts for kids…and even some Galway-themed playing cards.
Finders Keepers; finderskeepersthestore.ie
Visit this store in Waterford to experience this vibrant gift wonderland, which stocks over sixty small designers and makers. There are candles like this one by Sónas (€29), sustainable coffee cups, quirky art pieces and gifts for the little ones that you may not have thought of before.
Kilkenny Shop; kilkennyshop.com
With 15 stores across the country, Kilkenny Shop has been promoting Irish craft and design for over 50 years. From fashion, knitwear and accessories, to handmade jewellery, crystal, art, hand-thrown pottery, you’re guaranteed to find a gift for someone you love. We adore this Orla Kiely teapot (€40), which would be a welcome addition to any Irish kitchen.
