With Christmas fast approaching, you might be starting to think about gifts for loved ones (or even treating yourself!) All these businesses are local and come with personal experience of great customer service and really lovely products.
Copeland Distillery
The Copeland Distillery in Donaghadee is a craft producer of a range of Irish Gin, Rum, Single Malt and Pot Still Whiskey. Their mission is simple – to create great tasting spirits which surprise and delight and reflect the history and traditions of the local area.
Copeland are offering some fantastic gift sets for Christmas as well as other merchandise such as glasses, notebooks and even beanies! Check out their website where you can also book tours of the distillery itself and learn all about the history of the local area. Make sure to follow them on Facebook and Instagram to avail of occasional special offers.
JN Wine
For the wine drinker in your life look no further than JN Wines in Crossgar. With over 40 years in the business, James Nicholson knows a thing or two about wines with each bottle being selected by hand. What’s more, being an independent trader, JN Wines collects wines you just won't see anywhere else - a really unique touch!
Hop on their website to see the full range of what’s on offer as well as purchase vouchers and gift sets. Also give them a follow on Facebook and Instagram.
S’more’a’licious
If you’re looking for a sugar fix over Christmas, check out S’more’a’licious, Northern Ireland’s premier luxury s’mores kit company. Their website has details of
all the yummy treats they have on offer, you’ll even find a toaster to toast them on! We love the ‘Return of the
Elf’ S’mores Toasting Kit – perfect for Christmas Eve. They’re also giving 10% off your first order. Be sure to follow their socials (Facebook and Instagram) for some serious chocolate envy.
Our Secret Boutique
Emma at Our Secret Boutique is a self-confessed shopaholic who sets out to find items that aren't your everyday find. Her online boutique is crammed full of women's clothing and accessorises to suit every occasion. She also does gift cards if you're not sure what item or size to choose. Her website can be found here and also follow her socials, Facebook and Instagram to ensure you can snap up any new arrivals before anyone else!
Silver and Sass
Silver and Sass are a customer focused jewellery retailer specialising in sterling silver jewellery. Many of their jewellery designs are totally exclusive to them and they also offer scarves and sock sets – surely a must for every Christmas stocking! For the full range of what’s on offer visit their website and give them a follow on Facebook and Instagram.
True Harvest Seeds
This is an interesting one! True Harvest Seeds are a plant conservation charity. They collect seeds from native origin plants growing in the wild and preserve them to safeguard native species for future generations. Their website sells native Irish origin wildflower seeds and seed mixes as well as organic vegetable, herb and non-native flower seeds, all of which are registered organic. They also have some great tips on how to best grow and care for your purchases. This gift is perfect for someone who likes to potter about in the garden with the added bonus of knowing they’re doing their small bit for the conservation of our native wild flora and the wildlife that they support. Also follow True Harvest Seeds on Facebook and Instagram to keep up to date with their latest news.
Mothú Jewellery
Mothú is an exciting brand of contemporary jewellery and home décor products created by multimedia artist, designer and teacher Maggie McAtamney.
Using laser cutting /engraving and hand finished techniques, Mothú produces a wide range of statement earrings, necklaces, brooches, pins and wall art. What’s more, all the pieces are inspired by the magical history and culture of Maggie’s own Irish heritage in County Antrim. See the full range here and follow on Instagram.
Give the gift of Art
A piece of art can be a really thoughtful gift to give at Christmas and these artists have some special pieces available to purchase.
Craig Jefferson
Craig is a Scottish artist, living and working in Northern Ireland. He exhibits his work regularly in galleries across the UK and has received multiple awards. Craig makes paintings and drawings that explore still life, figure and landscape subjects seeking to investigate the profound qualities that exist in our surroundings. To see the full range of what’s available visit his website and follow him on Facebook and Instagram.
Deborah Cumming
Deborah Cumming is an artist based slightly further away in Edinburgh. Her work is much sought after and held in private collections in the UK, Germany, USA and Canada. While working in oils is her first choice, she is always challenging herself to improve technique and develop subject matter, while embracing contemporary and traditional themes - each piece has its own unique journey. Deborah also takes a small number of commissions. Visit her website to find out more and take a look at her Facebook and Instagram.
Tool Monster
At Tool Monster their aim is simple – to make shopping for tools easy, either online or locally in store. They offer the best products at competitive prices with fast delivery guaranteed. So, if you have someone who is a dab hand at DIY or looking to finally do those jobs around the house yourself, visit their website, Facebook and Instagram to see the wide variety of products they have on offer – you’re bound to find what you’re looking for.
Order in the House
Imagine this scenario - someone who will help declutter and organise every part of your home. Well, thanks to Claire and Lisa at Order in the House, your dream of having a tidy, stylish, organised space can be a reality! What’s more, they’re offering gift vouchers so you can begin that spring clean early and give your living spaces a fresh start for the New Year.
Check out their website for more info and follow them on Facebook and Instagram for some serious organisation goals!
Ebb and Flow NI
Kimberley at Ebb and Flow NI makes ceramics inspired by the beautiful coastline of North Down. Her items are all handmade and make the perfect gift but be quick – they sell out quickly! Visit her Etsy shop to see the full range and also be sure to follow Ebb and Flow NI on Facebook and Instagram to see some behind the scenes pics of how the items are made.
True North Life
True North Life produce accessories for those who enjoy the outdoors. Make sure to check out their infinity bands – a snood that will protect you from the outdoor elements in one simple, soft and seamless loop. All inspired by Northern Ireland's stunning scenery and made with recycled plastic bottles, one size fits most and make the perfect gift for outdoor lovers. Each purchase also supports the work of the RNLI. Visit their website and follow True North Life on Facebook and Instagram for beautiful pictures of the local area to inspire us all to get outdoors more and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Palm Free Irish Soap
Palm Free Irish Soap is an award-winning small family business with a strong commitment to sustainability. They produce zero waste plastic free alternatives to everyday soap, shampoo, deodorant and laundry bars with each bar being made, cut and stamped by hand. All their items have only natural ingredients and are packed with essential oils making them 100% vegan. These make the perfect gift for those looking to make more environmentally friendly choices. Visit their website to see all the products and purchase gift vouchers if you just can’t decide! Also check out their Facebook and Instagram.
Nicola Cardwell
If you or a loved one has recently moved into a new home, you may be looking for some decorating inspiration. Nicola Cardwell is an experienced interior designer with a raft of domestic and corporate jobs under her belt. With a passion for design and a broad product knowledge, Nicola will work with you to make your living spaces a sanctuary from the busyness of life and a place to make memories with loved ones. Visit her website to see some of the projects she has worked on and make sure to follow her on Facebook and Instagram.
I hope this has been useful. I’m off to do some shopping!