Now that the festive season is most definitely among us, it’s time to start thinking about what we can give to our nearest and dearest. It’s not often enough that we take a moment to really honour those that make the other 364 days of the year not only bearable, but enjoyable. Your friends who you know you can text at 4am, your mother for always putting your needs before hers and your colleagues for their comradery when dealing with a workplace ‘mare. I know that I’ve got some amazing people in my life that I don’t thank enough. Their endless love, support and cups of tea have made me the happy human I am today.

Another reason for this sense of contentment is the constant stream of inspiration that I get everyday from fellow Irish creatives. Not only am I usually enamoured by their wares, but the passion and skill that has gone into their creations is amazing to me. Self-employment and creative work isn’t easy, and take it from me that the only reason any sane person would do it is because they truly love what they do and want to share it with the rest of us.

I’m so happy to report that halfway through compiling this gift guide, I realised that the majority of my suggestions were from small Irish businesses. This wasn’t by design, but simply because I really love their stuff! I’ve also gotten to know some of these makers and proprietors over the past few years and know for a fact that it genuinely fills their heart when they know that this appreciation exists. So, when you’re doing your shopping this Christmas, and for the rest of the year, bear that in mind. Support the movers, makers and hustlers