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Published on May 29, 2023

Meet the MarketStreet.ie Maker Ann, Button Pics, Co. Dublin. Introducing Ann of Button Pics, from Donebate in North County Dublin. Button Pics are handmade pictures crafted using buttons, embellishments and other specially chosen materials. Beautifully finished in a white solid wood box frame that can stand or be hung on a wall. While Ann sources her frames and paper from Irish suppliers, she sources buttons and embellishments from all over the world and has even been known to buy clothes just to take the buttons off for use in her pictures! All Button Pics are guaranteed Irish, lovingly handmade by Ann. Each Button Pic is unique. How did you start out making your product? The very first Button Pic I made was of the quote ‘Blossom Where You’re Planted’ and it was in memory of my Mam Eileen. This was one of her favourite sayings and the picture reminds me that I should try to make the best of every situation I’m in. I then started making pics as gifts for family and friends and soon people were asking me to make pics for them and it just grew steadily from there. How long have you been making your product for? Over 10 years now. I started in a small corner of my sitting room and gradually took over more and more space in the house until my husband created my own craft room for me and my thousands of buttons! What did you do before making your product? I work in the corporate sector in financial services. My role is demanding and people orientated so its nice to have a quiet space doing something so creative just for me. What helps you work better? I find that actually making the pictures is incredibly relaxing and mindful. It doesn’t feel like work as I can literally get lost in making the pictures and forget about any worries I may have. What's your favourite thing to do on the weekends? If it's not too cold I enjoy going for a walk with my husband and dog on one of the beaches near my home. The fresh air and sense of space is a great tonic. What’s your favourite holiday to celebrate? I’m a big fan of birthdays and enjoy celebrating with my family. I particularly love balloons and will always find an excuse to get some! What is the most interesting fact about you that many people don’t know? I like to buy second hand clothes with interesting buttons so I can then use the buttons in my pictures. What is the weirdest fact you know? I recently discovered that dogs are in fact able to see colour (like most people I used to think they are colour blind but they’re not!) What is the weirdest skill you have learnt? I’ve always been curious about how to create and make things. Over the years I’ve tried my hand at many different crafts and DIY projects. The weirdest one was giant paper marbling – I’m only saying it was weird because I made an incredible mess and the results were strange (& not in a good way!)

Published on May 26, 2023

Meet the MarketStreet.ie Maker Andria, Wild Watermelon, Co. Dublin. Introducing Andria of Wild Watermelon, a creative business that produces greeting cards and A4 prints on high quality, recycled stock. Printed and designed in Ireland for those who care about family, friends and the planet. How did you start out making your product? I’ve always loved stationery, who remembers their fancy paper collection?! Over the years I’d always designed my own cards for St. Patrick’s Day and Christmas for family and friends to keep in touch. How long have you been making your product for? I’ve been illustrating my cards for many moons, but officially started up my business just before the pandemic. What did you do before making your product? I went to DIT and studied Display Design which was an amazing course that covered so many aspects of design such as illustrating, pattern making and many more practices that add to my skillset. But oddly after college, I found myself in customer service roles in a variety of industries, including Financial Reporting! For someone who was terrible at Maths, it was a good fit as I loved working with clients and colleagues to achieve the best outcome. However, the call of illustrating was always there... the rest is history! What helps you work better? A daily walk! Clears the head and gets you focused on the day-to-day to-do list! I’m a member of a great creative group that helps with best business practices. Plus other card makers and designers really motivates me! Despite being a highly competitive marketplace, everyone in the greeting card industry is supportive and encouraging - it’s so unique in that way. What's your favourite thing to do on the weekends? With two little boys, we spend our time out and about which is great... especially as I don’t have to confront the house work or stand on Lego pieces! What’s your favourite holiday to celebrate? Being a greeting card designer, I love all holidays as there’s always a reason to send a card! But if I had to pick one, it would be Halloween... especially with the kids! Living in Ireland, it makes it an extra special time due to its heritage and connection to one of our ancient celebrations. What is the most interesting fact about you that many people don’t know? I love winter, I’m a winter kinda gal... not to say that I dislike summer, but much prefer wintertime. Especially those crisp, bright blue days! What is the weirdest fact you know? You can only fold a standard piece of paper in half 7 times, try it, I dare ya! What is the weirdest skill you have learnt? Apart from making evening dinners that the kids don’t eat? I’ve learnt how to emboss paper manually... and still trying to perfect it!

Published on May 15, 2023

Meet the MarketStreet.ie Maker Louise, Culu Design, Co. Wicklow Introducing Louise O'Hara of Culu Design, an Irish design studio that creates modern, colourful and eclectic handmade jewellery. Inspired by her love of colour, an out of control earring obsession and a desperate need to create! How did you start out making your product? I started out with polymer clay about 25 years ago as a teenager, looking for a creative outlet. I started making beads originally. This led to me doing a jewellery making course about 20 years ago which sparked the idea of setting up my own business. As is often the story, life then took over and I fell into a corporate job and set my dreams aside for another day, but I always made earrings for myself and as gifts over the years. How long have you been making your product for? I’ve been making earrings all my adult life, so for about 25 years on and off. I’ve always been obsessed with earrings and being a creative person generally it just made sense to me to make my own. What did you do before making your product? I’ve worked in an office full time since finishing my education. The dream of a creative career was always just that, a dream, I let fear hold me back from making the jump for too long. It’s not easy when you have bills and responsibilities! I was made redundant due to the pandemic and with that came an opportunity for a pivot, and here we are! What helps you work better? Oh there are many things.  I think being organised (annoyingly so at times!) has stood to me. My studio is teeny tiny, so I keep it in good order. I love spreadsheets, scrum boards and post it notes!  When I started my business everything was chaos, I think it needs to be like that at the beginning when you’re figuring everything out, but I am currently implementing processes to keep things flowing better, as I get busier and busier!  What's your favourite thing to do on the weekends? My very favourite thing to do at the weekend is eat with family and friends! There’s nothing better than a nice restaurant with my two favourite humans, my partner and my little apprentice, our five year old daughter. Also rambling about in nature, a walk in the woods with those two, and if we can involve a picnic too I’m in heaven! What’s your favourite holiday to celebrate? Christmas definitely! I’m not too concerned with Christmas itself exactly, but it’s the one time of year that all of my family get together and there’s lots of yummy food. What more can you ask for!  What is the most interesting fact about you that many people don’t know? Oh wow, I’m not that interesting at all! I think the most interesting things about me are my creations, and they’re free for the world to see. What is the weirdest fact you know? You can’t lick your elbow. Did you just try?! What is the weirdest skill you have learnt? I’m a boring old fart, I don’t have any weird skills. Unless you’d describe being able to fall asleep ANYWHERE a skill, my other half would! I’m always go go go, so if I sit (or stand) still for too long, there’s always a risk I might soon be snoring! VIEW CULU DESIGN

Published on May 03, 2023

Dublin will be celebrating their 40th Pride this year on the 24th June celebrating everything LGBTQ+. If one day isn’t enough for you then no worries, as June is Pride month. That’s right a whole month to celebrate Love and identity in every form it comes. So What is LGBTQ+? I know, it's confusing. It keeps changing every time you look but that's because the community is growing and identifying more groups to love and involve. So here is a quick definition for you so you can fully support the community confidently! L - Lesbian (Females who are sexually and/or romantically attracted to females) G - Gay (Males who are sexually and/or romantically attracted to males) B - Bisexual (A male or female who are sexually and/or romantically attracted to both males and females) T - Trans (A blanket term for those whose birthed gender, aka male or female, does not match how they identify. For example a male at birth who identifies as female would identify themselves within the Trans community. They can identify as male, female, both, or neither otherwise known as non-binary) Q - Queer or Questioning (Queer is a blanket term for not being straight or being trans. Questioning is those who are not sure about their sexuality or gender and are exploring)  + - Everything else that is not covered above (Some of those are Intersex, non-Binary and Asexual)    Quick Tip: If you are not sure of someone's pronouns, most people are willing to tell you how they prefer to be addressed if you ask nicely.  The Day It Self Wondering what is happening? Well they have plenty to do to keep you entertained and to suit your tastes and needs.  There will be a parade walking from O’Connell Street to Merrion Square with a variety of walkers from individuals to corporations and community groups all showing their support. Their festival will also have plenty to do with live music, food, and other vender and entertainment there will be something for everyone.    And don't worry if you have extra needs as the festival caters for everyone. They have an accessible viewing area for the parade, ISL interpreters, run key events in accessible venues and more. All you need to do is fill out an accessibility form on their website.  https://dublinpride.ie Pride Up Your Life! Make your life a bit more colourful with some of the amazing options we have in our Pride section of MarketStreet.ie with options for you and your favourite 4 legged friend. Fused-Glass Rainbow / Chakra Heart Suncatcher PRIDE – Rainbows and Rainbows Reversible Dog Bandana SHOP PRIDE GIFTS & ACCESSORIES

Published on April 13, 2023

Meet the MarketStreet.ie Maker Jennifer, Millbee Studio, Co. Offaly How did you start out making your product? My background is in design and I’ve always loved to do creative things. I studied Interior and furniture design and worked in various design fields. I made my first product for a blog I had called ‘Rustic Notes’. It was a blog about country living, cooking, foraging and craft. My neighbour who was a beekeeper introduced my to beeswax and the benefits of using beeswax candles in comparison to paraffin candles. I had to make them to see for myself and was hooked! How long have you been making your product for? Almost 5 years now. What did you do before making your product? I worked in a web and marketing company and also had my own company creating designs and project management for retail Interior fit outs. What helps you work better? Music or listening to Podcasts. If I need to really focus I use the CALM app sounds and music. I also love a strong cup of coffee in the morning. What's your favourite thing to do on the weekends? I love to go on walks or hikes. I recently joined Slieve Bloom walking group and we go for scenic hikes around Laois and Offaly. What’s your favourite holiday to celebrate? Christmas is my favourite holiday. I usually cook dinner for the family (around 10 of us) and we completely relax at home for a few days. What is the most interesting fact about you that many people don’t know? I’m dyslexic but I think a lot of creative people are. I love to challenge myself and learn new skills. To get over my fear of public speaking I joined our local Toastmasters club and was the president at one stage. What is the weirdest skill you have learnt? I don’t think I’ve learnt a weird skill but I love to try new things regularly. Some of the things I did recently include drumming, basket making, making dairy products, crochet, sound bathing and my new goal is to learn to speak Irish! VIEW MILBEE STUDIO PRODUCTS

Published on December 04, 2022

Easter arts and crafts for kids Have a little fun with some Easter themed activities while they're off school! As we approach Easter we'd like to share some family fun Easter arts and crafts ideas that will keep the whole family entertained. Crafts are a great way to spice up your Easter traditions, and more importantly it keeps the kids quiet for a little while! No need to break the bank on craft supplies - if you have some of these and you'll be able to create something colourful and fun for the occasion.. Colours (crayons/paints/markers) Paper (white or coloured) Pritt stick Scissors Toilet rolls Pom poms Pipe cleaners Plain white paper plates Plain paper cups Cotton wool String/twine Lollipop sticks Note: You don't need all of these, they are suggested supplies and it will depend on what you want to make! 5 Easter arts and crafts ideas: 1. Make your own Easter garland. Garlands are such a staple to any house decoration. Making them yourself just seems all the more fun, especially when it's a joint family effort. Everyone can design and decorate their own piece of the garland. Whether it's eggs, chicks or bunny rabbits we're sure this garland will look perfect for your Easter celebrations. Easter garland arts and crafts 2. Get creative for your Easter baskets. We all know that kids get so excited to see the Easter Bunny. Making these little baskets don’t even require much. These can be great gifts and also good decorations for the house! These bunny treat baskets can be made in two ways.  The first is by using up the used toilet rolls! Decorate and colour them to your own liking and with a bit of glue and paper, you can glue a bottom to this to make it the perfect basket for their special Easter goodies! An alternative is to use plain paper cups and decorate these as they already have a bottom on them perfect for holding plenty of sweet treats! If you can't find plain ones, then glue bits of paper or cotton wool etc on it to make it as you like! If you have pipe cleaners you can make a little hole on each side and feed each end through the holes making a handle for the kiddies to carry them around for their Easter egg hunt! Easter arts and crafts toilet rolls / paper cups 3. Paper plate Easter chicks. Paper plates are a great supply to have for kiddies arts and crafts. They can be used to make something perfect for every occasion. For Easter they will have fun making cute Easter chicks to hang on the wall or gift to granny and grandad! For the chick wings another fun idea is for the kids to trace out the outline of their hands, cut them out, colour/paint them, and then stick them on as the chick's wings. Easter arts and crafts paper plates 4. Decorate eggs. A tradition I remember doing when I was a kid, just plain and simple decorating real eggs!. Make sure to hard boil them first or it could be a mess to clean up! Decorate with lovely Easter colours and patterns to display around the house, or make it a little more fun and decorate them with funny faces which I'm sure the kids will have great fu doing! Easter arts and crafts paint your own egg 5. Make Easter masks. Bring the Easter theme to Sunday dinner with some home made masks for all the family. Create your own using whatever arts and crafts supplies you have, making one for everyone at the dinner table. The kids will be delighted. You will need elastic for these to stay on heads! Easter masks arts and crafts We hope this gives you some Easter arts and crafts inspiration to enjoy some fun, creative time with the kiddies over the Easter holidays. If you prefer some easier crafts that are already made and just require some decorating, the kids will enjoy these wooden DIY Easter colouring eggs that can be decorated and then displayed. Happy creating! Shop Easter Goodies Follow us on Instagram for daily unique gift ideas.

Published on November 05, 2022

Let's get Summer ready! Top tips to make the most of Summer days to come As the evenings stay brighter for longer, we want to help you make the most of the summer days and nights to come! After all, this year will be the first Summer in 3 years with no covid restrictions, so let's make it a great one. Whether the weather is good or not, let's get prepping for a Summer of fun with friends, family, little ones and yourself. I'm getting excited just thinking about it, and writing this has got me planning and organising my calendar for the weekends to come! Summer At Home First things first, let's get the garden summer ready! Most of us spent time and money on our gardens and outdoor space during covid. Having your outdoor space prepared for nice days is essential. Have you stocked up on some garden bunting to add some colour and fun to the space, some nice fairy lights or other lights fore a magical vibe, and of course something comfy to sit on and enjoy the summer evenings?! These for me are top of the list for the summer garden essentials and will definitely create that Summer vibe at home to share with family and friends. Stock up on summer essentials Have the suncream at the ready - and the after sun! Especially here in Ireland, let's be honest, we do get excited when we see blue skies and the sun, but like your mammy always says, get your factor 50 on! We totally underestimate how strong the sun can be in Ireland! Fill the house with some Summery scented candles to bring that Summer freshness indoors! Hopefully you'll be having some get togethers at home, so having some food covers is ideal for keeping food fresh! Summer Days Out summer days out This is what Summer is all about! Getting out as much as you can, catching up with friends and family and soaking in that Summer feeling. Picnics and markets in the park Find time to just chill and have a picnic in the park. Pack your picnic goodies or pick up some yummy treats in a food market. Markets are back across the country so you'll definitely find one somewhere near you to have a wander and enjoy some yummy artisan food! Fill your tote bag with all your daily essentials as well as adding to your Summer look. Get BBQ ready Almost time for the expected race to get burger buns for your BBQ! Get some garden BBQs booked in with the family and friends. These always end up being the best get togethers. I don't know about you, but in our house we have BBQ for dinner every day the sun is out! There's just something about eating in the garden that just feels more relaxing and like you're on holidays. If you're BBQing often might be worth picking up a BBQ apron to keep your clothes clean! Go somewhere new for a day trip Add a bit of fun and adventure to your Summer by heading somewhere you've never been before, for the day. Maybe there's a nice beach not too far away that would be good fun with the kids, a hike you've wanted to do for a while now, or you've been recommended something new to do in Ireland. Don't put it on the long finger - as Nike say, just do it! Beach days OK so I know this is Ireland, but when we get a good sunny day, the beach is the place to be! There are so many fabulous beaches on this little island that make you feel like you could be in the Caribbean! Have your beach set up ready to go (in a cool beach bag!) and hit the road early for a full day of beach fun. The kids will definitely remember their beach days when the Summer is over! Summer festivals Nothing quite like a sunny day at a festival. Soaking in the atmosphere and just feeling so happy and summery, if you can get a festival of some kind booked in,  then do! Garden party Much like a BBQ but without the cooking, a cocktail party in the garden for friends is another nice idea for a get together and will bring some Summer laughs to your calendar! - Summer Breaks Summer breaks Make sure to organise a trip away, after all this is what most of us think of when we think of Summer. Whether it's a staycation or a trip abroad, it's nice to break up the Summer as well as enjoy a break away from the everyday routine at home. Visit some friends or family, book a weekend break, or jet off to the sun for a week. You deserve it! Or maybe you'd like to surprise someone with a surprise break away because you want to or maybe they just really need it! Present them with a personalised holiday scratch card to reveal the surprise trip! So get in the car, hop the train, book a flight or a ferry and head off for some time to rest the mind and come back feeling refreshed and ready for the rest of the Summer. Summer Fashion Accessories Summer fashion accessories As mentioned already, this is our first Summer with no covid restrictions so we have lots of missed time and occasions to catch up on. Get your wardrobe Summer ready, and make sure you've got some fun and colourful Summer accessories to style up your outfits for every occasion. Have you got your statement earrings, your sandals, and your sunglasses at ready? You want to look as great as you feel this Summer. What about the perfect bag for summer nights out? Or for Summer days out even? If you're like me and kind of clueless when it comes to makeup, you may even find a one to one makeup lesson useful to help you find the perfect look for all these social get togethers you have in the diary! So get your wardrobe and Summer accessories sorted - it's going to be a great Summer! SHOP FOR SUMMER Follow us on Instagram for daily unique gift ideas.

Published on November 04, 2022

Here are five Easter decor trends that will be sure to impress guests! These locally, handmade decorations will transform every area of your home! Finding the perfect Easter decorations for your home may be a daunting task, but you can't go wrong with these trends. All of these trends can be done at home or bought handmade from a local small business. Many of these have been popular Easter decor for years and aren't going out any time soon, so they can be used year after year! Top 5 Easter decor trends for 2023: 1. Crochet  From throw blankets to baskets, crochet is definitely the way to go! These colourful crochet baskets are the perfect addition to any side or coffee table, they bring the perfect splash of colour to any space! Sturdy Crochet Baskets with Wooden Base and Lid 2. Floral décor An Easter classic, florals in every form are going to be everywhere this Easter! This customisable, reusable paper flower bouquet is beautiful and you will not only have them for Easter, but all year round! Create Your Own Crepe Paper Flower Bouquet 3. Wreaths  From floral to crochet, you will see Easter wreaths in every form this year! A simple, cute way to spice up your front door year after year! Handmade Crochet Easter Wreath 4. Geometric, minimalist décor  Minimal, modern decorations are a great go-to in any space! The simple, geometric pattern pairs well with any decor items you may already have and elevates your space. Turquoise Egg Cup 5. Vintage China The timeless, elegant look that vintage china adds to your kitchen will catch the eye of guests of all ages. Vintage china will never go out of style and is a popular decor statement piece any time of the year! Vintage Bone China Mini Tea/Cake Stand All of these Easter decor items and so many more like them can be found at the link below! Shop Easter Decor and Gifts Follow us on Instagram for daily unique gift ideas.

Published on October 30, 2022

Struggling to find a gift for someone who has everything? We feel your pain and will save you that headache! If you're like me, you have that one person in your life that you never know what to get them. Either they buy everything they want before you have a chance, or they just never mention what they like. With this list of gift ideas you can't go wrong. 1. Unique Wall Art Are their walls looking a bit bare or needing a revamp? These art pieces are sure to be the new talking point in any home. Hermits Unite Art Print Whatcha reading? A4 Print 2. Weekend Fun Do they like to have a good party? Why not make it even better with these coaster that will keep you laughing all night or be the reason why they are laughing all night with this drinks set. Words of Beer Drinkers Wisdom Coasters (Set of 6) The Ultimate Spirit Adventure Box with Hip Flask 3. Plants Do they need a bit more nature in their lives but can't keep a plant alive? Or do you want your bouquet of flowers to last longer than a week? Not a problem for our creators giving us options that no-one can kill. Potted Crepe Paper Plant Crepe paper flower bouquet 4. Personalised Gifts Why not recreate the feeling of finding your name on a cup as a kid and buy them something personalised. Some would say a bottle opener is the most important item in the kitchen. Or a personalised wall art piece to make them smile every time they see it. Personalised Engraved Bottle Opener for Him Personalised Cassette Mix Tape Print 5. Experience Gifts Why not give them an experience gift, as memories last longer than any item you could give. You could give them photography lessons or even a unique scratch card to reveal that surprise holiday you have planned. Beginners Photography Workshop on the Dingle Peninsula Personalised Boarding Pass Scratch Card That's a little taster of gifts we know they'll love and most likely won't have, now you just need to choose! FIND SOMETHING UNIQUE

Published on October 29, 2022

Add an extra bit of magic to their Christmas this year! Our top Christmas Decorations that the kids will love.. Christmas is a time for family but also a lot about the kids, especially the lead up to the big day. As a parent, I know we are always trying to come up with fun and festive ideas to make the whole festive season more magical for the kids. For this reason I've put together a list of our best kid friendly Christmas cheer decorations and gifts, that will add a bit more excitement to their Christmas this year. 9 fun and magical Christmas decorations for kids: Christmas Countdown Plaque, Christmas Fairy Door, Chocolate Reindeer Decoration 1. Christmas Countdown Board  Kids love this board to countdown to Christmas and will add a bit of excitement to their mornings! With a piece of chalk they can keep track of how many days til the big man's arrival. 2. Christmas Fairy Door This really is a must for little fans of fairy magic. Yes the elf on the shelf arrives to many houses on 1st of December with lots of mischief, but a Christmas fairy door will be sure to add a sprinkle of magic to the Christmas season. My kids are fairy mad so when the Halloween fairy door appeared a few weeks ago, the excitement was unreal. This Christmas fairy door will be 'appearing' soon and I can't wait to see their little faces! 3. Personalised Reindeer Chocolate Decoration Because what little one doesn't love chocolate and reindeers at Christmas! This reindeer decoration can be used year after year and is a cute little token gift for kids this Christmas. Nativity Scene, Personalised Santa and Rudolph Plates, Reindeer Food 4. Nativity Scene This hand crocheted nativity set is a fun and unique way for the kids to enjoy and talk about the story of Jesus' birth. It includes Joseph, Mary, baby Jesus in a manger and a lamb. 5. Personalised Christmas Eve Plate Sets Make sure Santa and Rudolph know who has left out their midnight snacks with these hand painted personalised Christmas Eve Plate sets. The set includes two plates (1 for Santa and one for Rudolph) and a cup for Santa's drink. 6. Reindeer Food For a little bit of added magic and Christmas excitement, sprinkle this reindeer food on the grass on Christmas Eve to feed the reindeer. Personalised Reindeer, Late Late Toy Show Goodie Bag, Santa Nice-o-meter 7. Personalised Reindeer Cute freestanding personalised Reindeer that the kids will love having displayed over the festive season. Whether it's the whole family or just one, they are a perfect decoration that the kids will love. 8. Late Late Toy Show Goodie Bag This Late Late Toy Show Goodie Bag is a Canvas bag personalised with name…ready to be filled with their favourite snacks for a festive evening of toy show fun. 9. Customisable Santa’s Nice-O-Meter Santa knows whether you were naughty or nice this year, and now you can too – and move the needle with your holiday cheer with the fun and spirited tabletop Santa Meter with real working gears! We're sure that any of these Irish made Christmas decorations or gifts will add 100% more festive magic to the kids' Christmas. Happy Christmas! Visit our Christmas Shop Follow us on Instagram for daily unique gift ideas.

Published on October 28, 2022

12 Fun Halloween Party Games For Kids Spooky season fun for all the family! Halloween is all about celebrating the spooky season and having fun with friends and family. Apart from all the usual Halloween festivities of dressing up, watching scary movies and pumpkin carving, you may want to host a little Halloween get together for the kids (or the adults!) this year. No party is complete without some party games, so we've put together a list of 12 Halloween party games that the kids will enjoy. You may not want to play all of them so pick and choose depending on what age the kids are or what DIY materials you have. Before everyone comes over make sure your house is in Halloween mode too with some unique Halloween decor and accessories to make the place feel even more spooktastic! To end the night after all your fun and games, you can give out some sparklers and check out any fireworks going off in the area, from your back garden or windows! Pumpkin Drop Race This is a version of the well known egg and spoon race. Replace the spoon with empty toilet rolls, and the egg with a small orange balloon. Let the competitors draw their pumpkin faces on their balloon to get their competitor face on. Let the race commence. Don't forget if they drop their pumpkin they go back to the start, and no using hands or body parts to help hold it in place while racing! Witch Hat Ring Toss Easy to set-up ring toss game. Have a witch hats for cones. You can make these yourself using empty cereal boxes and decorating, or pick up a few cheap hats in the shop. Make your own rings using paper plates - cute the centre out and then let the kids decorate them. So really this doubles up as some crafty colouring fun and then a game at the end of it! Halloween games - witch hat ring toss Mummy Sack Race Spook up the traditional sports day sack race for this game!  All you need is some white crepe paper and you are set. Wrap up everyone’s legs with white crepe paper and the one to the finish line with no rips in the paper wins. Spider Races The little ones will love this nice and easy, creepy-crawly game. All you need is a few small plastic spiders and some straws. Set up a a little track for the spiders to race and let the race begin. If you have a tray this is handy to keep the spiders contained to the race track! Halloween Games - Spider Races Pin the Spider on the Web So many variations of this game, but a nice easy and fun game to keep them entertained for few minutes. Make it yourself or pick one up in the shop, it's easy to set up and one that won't need explaining. Pumpkin Patch Stomp Stock up on some orange balloons and small sweets and treats. Before blowing up the balloons put some of the treats into each balloon. Once all blown up let the kids go wile stomping around the 'pumpkin patch' to burst the balloons and get their treats! Donuts on a string All you need is sting and some yummy Halloween themed donuts! Kids can't use their hands and must try to take bites of their donut using only their mouth. Tie the donuts down low to make it more challenging and funny for them to reach! Halloween Games - Donuts Worm Dig This is a fun one! Prepare a big bowl of cooked spaghetti, blindfold the kids and tell them they have to put their hands into the bowl of slimy worms and dig down to find the treats hidden amongst the 'worms'. It's funny to see their reactions and how terrified some of them are at the thoughts of touching the 'worms'! Ghost and Pumpkin Bowling A few ways to play this so choose whatever is easier for you. Sacrifice a few toilet paper rolls to draw ghost faces on and use as your bowling pins. Get an orange as a substitute pumpkin and you have yourself a perfect game of spooky bowling. Another way to play is use white paper cups, stack them all up in a pyramid shape and use a small mandarin as your ball. See how many you can knock down in one throw! Halloween Games - Ghost and Pumpkin Bowling Eyeball Hunt A bit of outdoor fun if the weather permits! Stock up on eyeball sweets or fake eyeballs and hide them all around the garden. Unleash the kids to let them find as many eyeballs as they can! Pumpkin Carving / Decorating We've got to include this as it wouldn't be Halloween without some pumpkin carving! Understandably this might not be easy to do with a load of littles ones asking you to do all the carving, so a nice little easy alternative is to give them all a mandarin (or two!) and some markers, and let them design their own mini pumpkin that they can take home with them. Halloween Games - Pumpkin Carving Halloween Pinata Always a crowd pleaser. If you can pick up a Halloween pinata to fill full of treats then you have the perfect game to finish off your party. Let them race for the sweets once it bursts and send them home with a bag full of sugar - their parents will be delighted!! Happy Halloween, have a fab-BOO-lous party! SHOP HALLOWEEN DECOR & ACCESSORIES

Published on October 27, 2022

Craft Village at the National Steam Rally, Stradbally, 2022 NEW Irish Craft Village this August Bank Holiday Weekend The Stradbally Steam Rally 2022 is a fun, family orientated weekend, which caters for everyone, young and old. It takes place on Sunday and Monday of the August bank holiday weekend, as it has done for the past 56 years. Here's all you need to know about this perfect family day out this August bank holiday... When is it? Sunday 31st July – 10am – 6.00pm Monday 1st August – 10am – 6.00pm Where is it? Stradbally Hall, Stradbally, Co. Laois (the home of Electric Picnic) What's happening at it? After a two year break, this year it's full steam ahead for a great weekend! With a huge lineup of activities and entertainment, it is guaranteed to be a great day out for all the family! The two days will feature: Pet farm Dog show Amusements Children's activities Irish Craft Village Steam engine display Vintage car display Tractor display Food tent Bar with live entertainment On Sunday Declan Nerney will be performing live! Irish Craft Village This is the first year that a craft village will be hosted at the Stradbally Steam Rally, and MarketStreet.ie are thrilled to have been part of the organisation of it. The craft village will host a wonderful selection of Irish made crafts and artwork for you to discover, with crafters coming from all across the country to showcase their their unique handcrafted products. Some of our amazing MarketStreet.ie makers attending too so make sure to check them out if you're there! VIEW MORE DETAILS

Published on October 26, 2022

Your best friend just got engaged..Now what? Our top tips to celebrate their exciting news! It's such an exciting time when your bestie gets engaged. She's been dreaming about this day for a long time, and now it's here she can't wait to tell everyone. To help her celebrate we've put together some suggestions to make her feel really special and mark the occasion! 5 ways to celebrate your best friend's engagement: Decorate her front door before she gets home. More than likely you'll hear the news straight after the proposal, so it gives you time to scream down the phone with excitement with her, and then fly out and decorate her front door before she gets home! An engagement banner and or engagement balloon on her front door when she returns will add to the excitement of her big news. Gift her a personalised engagement gift to remember this special moment. Organise a really special engagement gift that she will absolutely love. A personalised engagement gift is uber thoughtful and one that will definitely be appreciated. Bring her out for afternoon tea or drinks with the girls to hear all about the proposal. She will be dying to see all the girls and show off that sparkler on her finger, when it's the real deal or a promise ring. And let's face it you'll all be dying to hear the proposal details and see that shiny ring too! Organise a surprise engagement party / get together for the newly engaged couple. It's always nice to have a reason for a party or get together. Doesn't have to be anything major, but a get together with all the couples friends to share a celebratory toast will be a great way to get them started on their journey to their big day. Send her a card and some bridal magazines. She has said yes to the ring so now it's time to get planning. Pop her an engagement card in the post (always exciting to get something other than a bill in the post!) with a special message, and maybe even send some bridal magazines to get the inspiration juices flowing. Shop Unique Engagement Gifts Follow us on Instagram for daily unique gift ideas.

Published on October 25, 2022

Unique and personalised Father's Day gifts Add some more meaning to your gift for dad this year Dad is always tricky to buy for, let's be honest. So let us help you choose a gift for the dad who has all the golfing stuff he needs, definitely doesn't need any more tech bits and has enough socks and clothes to last a lifetime! How about you surprise him with something more meaningful this year. Something a little fun, but also personal to show the thought and love that went into choosing the gift for him. Whether it's his first Father's Day or he's had a load already, something memorable that he will keep and treasure is always the best choice! This year, Father’s Day is on Sunday 19th June 2022. Top Father's Day Gift Ideas For Dad: Personalised Dad Wooden Plaque An engraved wooden plaque that is made to order so you can choose the words to describe your very special dad, grandad, husband etc. We're sure he'd be delighted to read your description of him! Personalised Dad Wooden Plaque | Personalised Daddy and Us Photo Frame Personalised frame with photo for Dad A thoughtful gift including a photo of dad with the kids or whatever picture you like, will be framed alongside a short verse and the names of who it is from. A sentimental keepsake gift for a very special daddy. Irish Bog Oak Shaving Set For the clean shaven dad that takes pride in his appearance, this is the perfect gift for him. This handcrafted Irish Bog Oak shaving set made from locally sourced Donegal wood, comprises a silver tip badger hair shave brush, razor (no blades), and matching stand. Each item can be engraved with his name or something special making it even more special! We're pretty sure not every dad will have a super cool shaving set like this one! Irish Bog Oak Shaving Set | Father's Day Cards Father's Day Cards These Father's day cards have just the right humour for many dads out there and make a change from the usual. Cards are blank inside so you can tell him yourself exactly what he means and why you love him so much! Personalised Engraved Bottle Opener A handy little bottle opener personalised especially for him - what more could a dad want for the Summer that lies ahead!! Personalised Engraved Bottle Opener | Personalised Superhero Frame with Marvel Border Personalised Superhero Frame with Marvel Border Because every daddy is a superhero, we know they would LOVE one of these personalised superhero frames from their little superhero fans! So there you have it, our top gifts for dad this Father's Day 2022. If you're looking for more ideas or inspiration, click on the button below where we have even more gift ideas for you to choose from. SHOP FATHER'S DAY Follow us on Instagram for daily unique gift ideas.

Published on October 24, 2022

What is Galentine’s Day? Galentine’s Day is the day to celebrate friendships with the girls and takes place the day before Valentine’s Day, on the 13th February. No matter what your relationship status – single, married or anything in between, this day is for celebrating all the women in our lives. If your a ‘Parks and Recreation’ fan you’ll know that back in 2010, Amy Poehler, playing the character Leslie Knope, first introduced the world to Galentine’s Day stating, “It’s only the best day of the year! Every February 13th, my lady friends and I leave our husbands and our boyfriends at home, and we just come and kick it—breakfast-style. Ladies celebrating ladies.” And that’s exactly what it is! How to celebrate Galentine’s Day? Yes, it’s a great idea to celebrate with your besties, but you don’t have to go full on as Leslie Knope did, in fact, I’d probably suggest scaling it back just a bit!  So first things first, get the 13th February penned into your diaries with a sharpie marker, then get a plan in place. The traditional way to celebrate Galentine’s Day is to organise a brunch or afternoon tea date for your girl gang. Get dressed up and go enjoy some yummy brunch food with a few proseccos or cocktails. However, If you’re not into brunch and fancy doing something a little different, here’s some of our suggestions.. A hike. Getting out in nature is great for the soul, so combine it with a  hike with all your favourite gals and you've got yourself a great day of soul enhancing fun. Maybe pack a few tasty snacks and picnic blanket for a pit stop! Spa day. Because we all deserve a day or pampering, why not organise this with the girls. Book into a spa for the day or make your own spa experience at home.  Girls night out or in. Nothing beats a good ol' night out or night in with the. girls. Now that Ireland is open again, a night out could be just what the doctor ordered! Go mad, have fun! Or maybe a night in is more your thing - get a take away, get your comfies on and crack open the vino. Either way a girls night is a lovely way to catch up and have the craic. Group activity. This is a great way to bond even more and have a laugh at the same time. Go ziplining, do a cocktail making class, take a crafty lesson, organise a draw a nude class, go wine tasting, find a roller disco dome...whatever it is you'll have fun cos you'll be with your girls! Do something you haven’t done before. First thing that comes to mind is an ocean swim (or dunk even)! Think of something fun you can all try together and then maybe grab a bite to eat after. Do I Need To Give Galentine’s Day Gifts? No one expects a gift for Galentine’s Day unless maybe it’s a poem about how great a friend you are, as Leslie Knope does in Parks and Recreation! This occasion is not as well known or celebrated as Valentine’s Day, so no one is expecting to receive anything. However, isn’t it the perfect day to maybe give something small as a gesture of your friendship, even just a card, and it would be a nice little surprise for your besties! Some of our favourite Galentine’s Day gift ideas include.. You Are All Kinds of Lovely – Card Besties Pebble Art Frame You are my Favourite Bitch Embroidery Bandia (Goddess) Essential Oil Candle Stillgarden Boss Lady Gin Gift Box Personalised Friends Frame Follow us on Instagram for daily unique gift ideas. Shop Unique Cards & Gifts

Published on October 23, 2022

What to write in a Valentine's Day Card Valentine's Day poems and words of love If you struggle to put into words how you feel, or just don't know what to say in your Valentine's Day card then we have some romantic, sweet and fun ways to get your message across. The 14th February is a day for all kinds of love, so no matter the recipient, a thoughtful little poem or message inside a special card will really show your love. 11 Roses are red poems.. Who doesn't love a good ol' roses are red Valentine's Day poem eh?! They're short and sweet (or cheeky, or naughty, or whatever you want it to be!) and perfect for writing inside your Valentine's Day card. Here are some of our favourites.. Roses are red, violets are blue love never crossed my mind, til i met you. Roses are red, violets are blue kisses and hugs, i love you. Roses are red, violets are blue how did i get so lucky with you. Roses are red, violets are blue your farts stink,  but i love you. Roses are red, violets are blue i really love my dogs, but you’re ok too. Roses are red, violets are blue all my naughty thoughts involve me and you. Roses are red, violets are blue forever and ever ill always love you. Roses are red, violets are blue i smile all day because of you. Roses are red, violets are blue with all my heart i am missing you. Roses are red, violets are blue even though you have select hearing, i still love you. Roses are red, violets are blue cashews are nuts and so are you. Heart Parts Card You’re My Favourite Pain.. 7 Valentine's Day card messages If you're not a fan of the roses are red verses then don't worry we have some more message suggestions for your inside your card! No matter who you are celebrating love with this Valentine's Day, we've got you covered! For the romantic.. Loved you once, love you still, always have, always will. For your other half.. I don’t want to be your favourite or your best. I want to be your only and forget the rest. For your single pals.. Roses are red. Lovebirds are annoying. Where is the chocolate? Let’s start enjoying. For parents.. This will definitely be a kids-in-bed-early kind of night. From your pet.. Who’s a good dog mom? Who’s a good dog mom? Is it you? Yes it is! You are the best dog mom! A little bit of humour.. All I need in this life is you and me. Oh, and WiFi. And wine. And snacks. But that’s it, I swear. Cheeky one.. Valentine’s Day to do list: You!   So, get writing - your Valentine is worth every word! You Have Good Looks, Kindness… Card Little Loves Greeting Card Hot Stuff Greetings Card Shop Valentine's Day Cards Follow us on Instagram for daily unique gift ideas.