A textile designer whose scarves are inspired by Limerick city streets and a Newcastle West family who create ‘happy’ candles will be showcased at the Gifted Contemporary Craft and Design Fair in Dublin’s RDS from December 5 to 10.
More than 45,000 visitors are expected to generate more than €1million per day in sales at this year’s largest-ever six-day fair.
Inspirational quotes and calm inducing fragrances have brought the sweet smell of success to Mary Ryan Enright’s family run business the Happy Candle.
From her studio in Grange Lower, Newcastle West, Mary produces handmade and beautifully scented soya and rapeseed wax candles.
“We want to encourage happiness in people’s everyday lives, the quote on our Good Life, lemongrass and ginger scented candle asks people to breathe deeply, love generously and live simply” said Mary.
The colours and textures of Limerick’s cityscape will be on display at the show thanks to Kate Ramsey Artisan Accessories.
The vibrant city streets and the boat life on the Shannon have provided the inspiration for designer Katarzyna Ramsey’s latest collection of felt and silk scarves ‘Kate Ramsey City.’
Also attending are Limerick-based knitwear designers Linda Wilson and Caroline Mitchell.
Bespoke wedding dresses in soft knit and crochet are among Caroline’s specialities while Linda concentrates on stylish, contemporary separates.
“Gifted is a brilliant show, all the best craftspeople in the country attend and it provides great opportunities with lots of important buyers there on the look-out for something different,” said Linda.
The growth in Ireland’s vibrant design sector means that Gifted has been expanded by an extra day to become a six-day unique Christmas shopping experience.
“Giving a Gifted gift to your loved ones this Christmas means that they will be receiving a special item straight from the maker,” said organiser Patrick O’Sullivan.
Gifted Contemporary Craft and Design Fair takes place at the RDS Main Hall from December 5-10 from 10am each day. Full details at www.giftedfair.ie
