On 4 October, Killashee Hotel was filled with the best creators, designers and craftmakers in Ireland – these were the big winners on the night
At the 8th annual Irish Made Awards, the top names in Irish business gathered in one place to celebrate the incredible work by small, independent and local brands and those that support them.
Sponsored by Mini, the event was hosted by Irish Country Magazine at the beautiful Killashee Hotel, Co Kildare and the room hummed with excitement and camaraderie as people mingled, networked and took time away from their day jobs to appreciate how far they’d come.
Each and every finalist earned their place with their commitment to local produce, sustainable practices or supporting craftmakers in their area but there could only be one winner in each category.
Here are the winners from the Irish Made Awards 2024:
Overall Winner – Sponsored by MINI Ireland – and Wellness Winner – Sponsored by Jo Browne
Born in Sligo and created by the Walton family, VOYA has harnessed the restorative and healing powers of seaweed, blending it with the finest organic ingredients and essential oils. Their luxurious range of skincare and wellness products has made its mark worldwide, available in over 42 countries, and featured in luxury spas, hotels, retail outlets, and even Emirates flights. VOYA is truly a shining example of Irish innovation on the national and even global stage.
VOYA has been redefining the wellness industry with its innovative use of seaweed since launching its very first product. Today, the brand’s collection has grown to over 50 luxurious offerings, ranging from rejuvenating face and body creams to delightful home fragrances and organic teas.
Wellness
Influenced by the therapeutic benefits of the sea and organic herbs from her garden, Soak was founded by Kaz Kearney in 2021 to support people on their wellness journeys. Each scent range was developed to help with sleep, anxiety, mood and energy levels, as well as treating the skin.
Jewellery – Sponsored by JUVI
Winner: A Little Idea Jewellery
A Little Idea, brought to life by designer Ali Lowndes, is a burst of joy for those craving a splash of colour. Her laser-cut acrylic statement jewellery pieces are playful and bold, perfect for anyone who loves to express themselves with vibrant pieces like hers.
Created by Louise O’Hara, Culu Design (‘culu’ is the Irish word for ‘retreat’), started as a dream 20 years ago when she began making earrings as a creative outlet. Today, it is a design studio that creates modern, colourful and eclectic handmade jewellery in Co Wicklow.
Accessories – Sponsored by Blarney Woollen Mills
August Night, crafted by designer Caoimhe Grant, is a mesmerizing collection of exquisite bags and accessories. Known for their unique details and timeless style, each piece reflects an ever-evolving artistry that effortlessly stands out.
Highly Commended: Michelle Kearns Designs
Michelle Kearns started her millinery business in 2015 and one year later moved to her studio in Tuam, Co Galway where she has a hire collection, pieces for sale and creates unique custom designs for special occasions. Everything is hand made by herself from the initial sketch to the final stitch!
Drink – Sponsored by The Powerscourt Distillery
Founded by Mary O’Sullivan and Lorretto O’Driscoll, Beara Bitters puts a unique twist on traditional bitters. Inspired by their shared love for Ireland, they craft distinctive flavours that capture the spirit of Ireland’s rugged beauty.
Kells Gin originated in Kells, Co Meath, famously known as the Monastic Capital of Medieval Ireland. With 12 botanicals reflecting the floral patterns of Kells Lace, it offers a distinct citrus taste and is known for its rich heritage, superior craftsmanship, and innovative spirit.
Fashion – Sponsored by Magee 1866
Irish designer Caroline Duffy is celebrated for her breathtaking floral creations, where every piece is infused with the elegance and vibrancy of her hand-painted art. Her designs bloom with life, capturing the essence of nature’s beauty.
Highly Commended: Miss She’s Got Knits
At the end of 2020, Karen Birney set up @MissShesGotKnits on Instagram to document her hobby and before long was inundated with requests by followers to design pieces for them. Her colourful designs brim with joie de vivre and are the perfect injection of colour into any wardrobe.
Sustainability – Sponsored by Seabody
Rooted in the deep heritage of Irish beekeeping, Hanna’s Bees, led by Hanna Bäckmo, is a hive-to-home business built on sustainability and respect for nature. Each product is carefully handcrafted in Cork, embodying a true commitment to preserving the environment.
Highly Commended: Ceadogán Rugmakers
In the 30 years since Denis Kenny and Fiona Gilboy have been at the helm Ceadogán Rugmakers, the company has gone from a small hearth rug business to a leading maker of fine bespoke rugs and wall hangings. With a strong commitment to sustainability, no detail has been left unconsidered and even the buttons in Ceadogán’s new range of cushion covers are hand made on site from local wind fallen hornbeam.
Beauty – Sponsored by Supplements Made Simple
Dr. Joanne Reilly, the brains behind Kinvara Skincare, started her journey by handcrafting skincare products. Today, Kinvara is a thriving company dedicated to creating the finest natural, vegan, and cruelty-free skincare products that celebrate the power of nature and science.
Based in Wexford, this company wants to redefine the way you look after your hair. Remi’s products are meticulously formulated to address a variety of scalp concerns, from dryness and flakiness to excess oiliness, providing users with effective solutions tailored to their individual needs. At the heart of their ethos lies transparency, empathy, and an easy-going approach.
Kids – Sponsored by Kidspace
Sisters Kate and Jyll Power have brought the vivid colours and imagination of their childhood in the Irish countryside to life with Nettle and Ivy’s vibrant prints. Each design is available in both English and Irish, making these playful creations even more special.
Highly Commended: Wonderfully Weathery Books
Created in Dublin, this Irish owned business set up to create a series of children’s picture books about a land called Weatherville – where the weather lives! The aim is to teach children about the weather by introducing them to different weather characters and showing how they interact together to create different types of weather.
Gift – Sponsored by Guaranteed Irish
From humble beginnings with a natural solid perfume, Jo Browne has blossomed into a creator of luxurious natural products that bring a sense of indulgence and wellness to you and your home.
Highly Commended: Stories by Ola
Beyond the technical expertise, Stories by Ola is a brand built on the belief that everyday moments can be imbued with a touch of magic. Whether it’s a handcrafted mug cradling a warm beverage or a beautiful table setting for a family get-together, Ola strives to add a layer of appreciation for the beauty that surrounds us. Each one is a celebration of Irish beauty and a testament to sustainable craftsmanship.
Food – Sponsored by O’Donnell’s Crisps
Under the guidance of Siobhán Ní Gháirbhith since 1999, St Tola Farmhouse Cheese has evolved into an internationally acclaimed brand, known for its distinctive range of artisanal cheeses.
Highly Commended: Burren Smokehouse
Beginning as a team of three people, today the Burren Smokehouse has almost 20 staff dedicated to producing the finest smoked fish. Such is the quality of the product that it has attracted the attention of the finest retail establishments across the globe and graced the plates of royalty.
Home – Sponsored by Kukoon Rugs
This family-run business infuses every creation with love and passion. Their ‘Made With Love in Ireland’ range is a blend of sumptuous textures and vibrant prints, designed to elevate any space.
Highly Commended: Ciara O’Neill
Ciara is a contemporary artist from Galway in the West of Ireland who specialises in original paintings and fine art prints. Her designs are inspired by her love for Aboriginal art and Andy Warhol and will add a vibrant pop of colour to any room. She has now expanded her range to include homeware and fashion.
Pets – Sponsored by Petmania
What started as a passion project—painting dog portraits for friends and family—has grown into a thriving business for founder Antoinette Fennel. With a commission book filled a year in advance, Tails and Tales explores the fascinating bond between people and their beloved pets.
Highly Commended: Harley & Marley
This company’s mission is to bring joy, health and long life to all furry family friends with delicious food and treats from the Irish seas. It creates fish-based nutritional food that’s tasty and satisfying, 100% natural and bursting with natural goodness.
Local Retailer – Sponsored by DCCI
Founded a decade ago by Lisa Tonge, The Green Dot is more than just a shop—it’s a treasure trove of handmade wonders. Stocking the work of over 70 Irish designers and makers, it’s dedicated to promoting well-crafted, unique creations from across the island of Ireland.
Founded by Aoibhín Garrihy and Sharon Connellan in 2017, Beo is a nationally renowned lifestyle brand which blends live events promoting self-care with their product line. This year, they have opened a brand new flagship wellness hub in Ennis incorporating retail, coffee, healthy snacks and a community studio space to accommodate its growing portfolio.
Textiles – Sponsored by Foxford
Founded by Triona Lillis and Aoibheann MacNamara, The Tweed Project is redefining Irish design by blending exquisite materials with modern tailoring. Each handmade piece is a celebration of authenticity, where tradition meets contemporary style.
Highly Commended: Celtic Tweed
Drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of Irish heritage and history, Celtic Tweed are renowned artisan tailors in Dublin, Ireland. They design, produce, and sell exquisitely crafted contemporary and classic men’s and women’s tailored jackets, blazers, waistcoats, coats, gilets, and bodywarmers that are made to be worn for a lifetime.
Lifetime Achievement Award – Sponsored by Weir & Sons
Founded in 1976 by Tarlach de Blácam and Áine Ní Chonghaile on Inis Meáin island, the company has become a beacon of tradition and community. Determined to provide jobs and preserve their island’s heritage, they equipped a small factory with knitting machines, giving locals a reason to stay rather than emigrate for work. Nearly 50 years on, Inis Meáin Knitting Company continues to honour rich knitting traditions through every piece it creates on the island.
