If you are looking for a beautiful gift for a loved one, or a sure-fire way to treat yourself, look no further. We’ve found the perfect Irish-owned company who carefully create hand-made products to soothe the soul and melt your heart.
Candles have different meanings for every occasion; be it a special moment of celebration, a birthday festivity or just a calming night-in for the ultimate relaxation experience, a scented candle is the ideal reminder of healing and peace.
The talented founder of Lovato Candles created the luxury brand when he was just 20-years-old in his home county, Cork.
Jason Hamilton-Foott began the company from his home in the autumn of 2016, and the collection of gentle wax products has gone from strength to strength ever since.
The handmade candles are curated using only 100 percent natural wax and the finest blend of fragrance oils, ensuring that the end products are unique to each buyer.
Jason’s candles are an outlier in the market. Immediately a standout favourite, the high quality ingredients, contemporary design and careful crafting from beginning to end have attracted attention of consumers worldwide.
The founder’s love of travelling is a major influence on his brand and combined with his appreciation of Irish life, has resulted in a huge variety of scents and diffusers resembling the fragrance of our natural lands blended with those of further afield.
Lovato Candles have received a mountain of praise for their fragrance products which never fail to soothe, satisfy and exceed customer expectations.
Jason’s collection is comprised of a range of ten fragrances of scented candles and diffusers, each Lovato candle is instantly beloved both at home and abroad.
The choice within the Lovato Candle range is extensive; you can choose between votive candles, candles with a luxury box, clear candles, luxury candles with a silver lid and three-wick candles, as well as diffusers and wax melts.
Some of the beautiful aromatic fragrances include; Black Plum & Rhubarb, Seaweed and Juniper, Lemongrass and Ginger, Rock Salt and Driftwood, Thai Lime and Mango, Mandarin and Sandalwood, and Night Blooming Jasmine. Each one is truly a gift for the senses.
Lovato Candles are stocked in some of Ireland's most celebrated retailers. Jason and his company now have their own Bandon studio where their decadent collection is carefully crafted.
Why not try give your perfect match the tranquil candle they deserve? We want the full range for maximum comfort within our home, these crafted candles are the image of self-care.
If you're currently twiddling your thumbs, desperately trying to decide what presents to get your relatives or friends (or yourself…), we've found the shop for you.
It's got all the answers to your alcohol questions, and even does FREE ENGRAVING…yes, you read that right. Frengraving.
The JamesonBlack Barrel shop has opened just in time for Christmas, and is ready for your last minute personalised gifting requests.
Ireland's leading whiskey is our new Christmas BFF; their newest pop-up is located on South William Street in Dublin until December 24.
The Jameson Black Barrel shop has free engraving on all bought bottles from the pop-up for a personalised touch at the price of €48, so it won't break the bank.
It doesn't even end there, for whiskey lovers galore they've also got hip flask gift sets with a whiskey glass and small bottle of JamesonBlack Barrel for 25 quid, we are GAGGIN' for one of those.
If you haven’t heard of Dylan hotel, you are sorely missing out. The Irish-owned five-star boutique hotel is renowned already for it’s red brick Victorian building, lavish decor and high-quality food, as well as it’s amazing proximity to the Irish city centre.
Tucked into a side avenue near Baggot Street, this gem is still relatively private despite it’s location, as if the building itself is housing a treat only a special few experience.
Dylan Barhas everything going for it, but we decided it was high time for us to try out their brand new Christmas afternoon tea menu: Spice and All Things Nice. We felt we deserved some five-star treatment, especially since the cost is only €45 for great service and even better food.
The design of the hotel is immediately striking; while it may be aesthetic Victorian brick on the outside, within the building is modern, contemporary design. We were seated by the fireplace by incredibly attentive staff, and after perusing their extensive afternoon tea menu, our eyes were swiftly on the prize: Christmas cocktails.
Their limited edition cocktail menu is inspired by the magical spices of the festive season; ginger, nutmeg, clove, star anise and cinnamon. It’s pretty mouth-watering stuff, if we do say so ourselves. Seeing as we value journalistic integrity, we had to taste as many as possible. *winks*
We definitely weren’t disappointed; their Winter Wine Warmer is an extravagant version of mulled wine, except far, far classier. Made with a mix of homemade citrus, star anise and clove syrup added to classic Merlot, the twist on the aromatic Christmas drink of the gods goes down a treat.
TheFestive Pudding cocktail is a reimagined version of the classic winter dessert, made with allspice Guinness syrup, fresh orange and lime juice, old fashioned bitters, eggs whites and of course, Irish whiskey. Any connoisseurs of whiskey will adore this drink, trust us, it has a kick.
Next up on our list was the Apple & Cinnamon Crumble, made with Zubrowska vodka, goldschlanger, apple and lime juice, vanilla infused honey and topped off with a cookie crumble rim. Talk about being in heaven, the Dylan mixologists were infusing the atmosphere with subtle yet heartwarming Christmas vibes.
For those with a sweet tooth, chocolate appreciators can enjoy the Polar Express either hot or cold. Created with Hennessey V.S., Bailey’s Frangelico, and chocolate and vanilla cream, you’ll be rolled out of the place after one (or five…) of these.
Other divine drinks on offer include the Zenzero Negroni, which has the highest alcohol content so brace yourselves, and Before Santa’s Here for another whiskey.
Last but by no means least, their Summer in December is a rum and gingerbread syrup blend for a summer mood with a winter cheer, and they also include their version of an Irish coffee; the Dylan Christmas Coffee mixed with their secret spice syrup.
The designated drivers can also try a range of mocktails which are as good as the real thing. Dylan Bar also has refreshing bubbly, for any Prosecco queens out there, and a variety of tea and coffees. Heaven is a place on earth, and it’s located at Eastmoreland Place.
With all of these gorgeous drinks, we had almost forgotten about all the luscious cakes and sweet and savoury treats coming our way. Almost. They served us the carefully crafted food on a three-tiered plate, and we had a try of their spiced scotch egg, turkey and sage pie with cranberry chutney and pulled ham on granary bread and brie and cinnamon spice apple.
The savoury selection was delicious, and we couldn’t leave without trying their sweet and subtly spiced buttery homemade scones and indulgent desserts. Pistachio slices, gingerbread cupcakes topped with whiskey icing and a meringue snowman with chocolate and nutmeg mousse were just a taster of what we were offered.
Sitting by the fire, breathing in the mulled wine and eating our weight in macaroons, we realised that we honestly need this lifestyle 24/7. It’s extra, it’s lavish, it’s Christmas magic, and everyone deserves a treat like afternoon tea at Dylan Bar. Don’t miss out, it’s only offered until the New Year so snap up a reservation while you can.
Enjoy the Spice & All Things Nice menu in the Dylan Bar until January 1 2019.
Call 01 660 3000 to make a reservation or email reservations@dylan.ie to have your Christmas injected with the warmth of festive food and drink.
If you're struggling to find your mam a present this year, inspiration might be closer than you think.
A recent study by Lumen showed that bizarrely a fifth of women confessed to finding Santa attractive – and that number spikes in the over 50s…
In fact, 26 percent of the older ladies like the big man in the suit.
But what's the appeal? Supposedly it's his beard, with most of the women saying it was the facial hair that attracted them.
Turning to that all important personality aspect, 71 percent of women said Saint Nick's friendly appearance is his most appealing quality, followed by his smile and good nature.
This nugget of golden info has been used by dating app Lumen to lure in the over 50s, with a sexy Santa being recruited for their Crimbo ad – GAS.
To be fair, Santa has a full-time job working with children, his own place in the North Pole and a whole herd of reindeer – so better than 90 percent of our dating prospects.
And he won't judge you as you wolf-down your third mince pie in a row.
The dating app for the over 50s was launched in November and found that Galway was the chattiest county in the country.
And age is just a number when it comes to love as the oldest members on the app are a 73-year-old female and 97-year-old male.
I reckon we should start a petition to get them together, sure Christmas is the ideal time to look for love.
“Cheryl is trying to put on a brave face, but she’s really dreading being lonely this year. She’s really struggling at the moment, being on her own,” a source claimed.
The Love Made Me Do It singer prefers to be in a relationship and is really feeling that loneliness as Christmas approaches.
There’s no doubt Liam will be there on Christmas morning as the parents vowed to take their parenting responsibilities extremely seriously, no matter what.
The former X Factor judge and Liam Payne went their separate ways in July 2018, but they have both agreed that their son’s happiness will always be their number one priority, regardless of their relationship status.
“They’re really serious about co-parenting and have always said they’d try to be there together for all the big events like Christmas and birthdays,” the source explained.
We’re sure Bear will help wash his mum’s worries away this Christmas.
We all have that friend that seems to have her head permanently in the gutter, and if you can't pinpoint which pal it is… then it's you, hun.
Every woman deserves to feel sexy and powerful, and some of your friends understand that notion more than others.
You know the one, the gal-pal that's always giving insanely detailed in and out's (pardon the pun) of her sex life, her favourite sex positions and toys, even her tips that you never really asked to hear.
If she's the mate you've been given for the Kris Kringle, never fear.
We have the ULTIMATE red hot, X-rated spice guide for buying the best gifts.
Strap yourselves in, fam. No, that wasn't an intentional BDSM reference, honestly….
1. Girl Boner: The Good Girl's Guide to Sexual Empowerment by August McLaughlin
August McLaughlin wrote a powerful book about how she overcame her eating disorder after embracing her sexuality.
The result is an incredible collection of her thoughts on what it means to be a 'good girl', slut shaming, prude-shaming, bondage, BDMS, body image, girl boners and orgasms, among other saucy things.
We advise you to grab it ASAP for your sexually empowered pals, or anyone who needs it for that matter. We've already ordered it from Amazon…*winks*
Fuschia make-up has decided to gift us with a frisky palette full of delicious berries, bold blues and tantalising purples.
Endlessly daring looks for naughty nights can be created with this gorgeous eyeshadow extravaganza. These shimmers will ensure that you can dance the night away or get your freak on, either way you'll be looking STUH-NING.
We honestly don't know a sexier feeling than putting on lingerie that BAD GAL RIRI both designed and wore herself.
She is the badass queen of sexual empowerment, and you can be too. While Savage x Fenty is on the pricier side, it's ideal for a Christmas treat=.
The gorgeous range of body types and diversity which the brand represents is worth the money, imagine how extra you'd feel wearing this beautiful lace body.
This sex kit features 11 specially selected toys for endless fun.
Included in this spicy set is the all-time favourite rabbit vibrator, butt plug, G-spot vibe, rabbit ears, beads, rabbit rings among other products, it's pretty decent value.
Welcome to the weekend, ladies. Treat yourself, or a sexually empowered mate of yours, if they're brave enough to unwrap the gift.
Glydecondoms are vegan and made with sustainably harvested natural latex, so they're perfect for that environmentally friendly sexually empowered pal. I mean, they're even certified by PETA.
These condoms come in a variety of textures, flavours and sizes so they're just as good, if not better, than store-brand condoms like Durex, but suitable for everyone.
YES WB lubricants are some of the best in the business.
Made from organic aloe vera, it's arguably the top water-based lube on the market right now. Perfect for moisturising and nourishing skin, as well as for solo or shared pleasure experiences.
It's called YES for a reason, don't you think? *wink* (Did you really think we'd write a sex-themed article without numerous cheeky winks?)
This soft plush mask is a fun way to change up the bedroom repertoire.
Coming in gorgeous black and white gold packaging, it's a great gift idea for anyone looking to eliminate their sense of sight to boost their sense of pleasure.
The RIANNE S Classique is the essential vibrator for any woman, sexually empowered or not.
The toy is 100 percent medical grade silicon and is available in three different colours with golden details, as well as a cosmetic bag for other saucy essentials.
12. Long distance lamps…to give them a sign *winks*
Uncommon Goods are now stocking this majestic product, which is essentially the 2018 way of issuing a booty call from afar.
These hilarious and absolutely genius lamps allow you to let your lover know that you're thinking of them from afar with just one simple touch.
The lamps are connected by WiFi, so each time either you or your partner touches a magical lamp, the other will light up with a sensual glow. It's fun, it's modern, it's damn sexy.
This game is possibly the greatest creative experience of foreplay invented. Sexy Jenga? It sounds absurd, but trust us, you'll have more than a few laughs playing it.
Each block has a number that coincides with a task or position, so it's pretty darn great for trying out some new experiences with a lover.
This flirty chequebook from Love Honey ain't about finances, in case you hadn't guessed.
26 cheques to choose from and two blank ones for your own filthy minds to fill in, these are a gas gift for a sexually empowered friend who needs a little creativity.
There's only so many pair of socks you can buy your old man, isn't there?
You think that they would be easy to buy for, but oh boy, are you wrong.
Well if you're freaking out that we're well into the festive season and the best you can come up with for your dad is a dodgy aftershave, then we are here to save the day.
Have a scroll through the present ideas below and see if any would be good for your Dad.
Ah, Stephen's night – the night for seeing all those people in your local you haven't batted an eyelash towards since secondary school, and catching up with you old friends over a few shots of baby Guinness.
Yes, you may feel bloated from the over indulgence of the day before, but we have five comfy but glam outfits to keep you warm on the night – just team them all with thermal tights.
If you're in need of a small pressie or Secret Santa gift, you'll want to check out Dealz.
They've got a brand new Harry Potter range and it's every Potterhead's wet dream.
And don't worry if you're on a tight budget, they've got some magical gifts for incredible prices – so you don't have to dish out the free hugs come Crimbo morning.
They've got something for everyone, so add an air of magic to their morning cup of coffee with a Hogwarts Crest or Dumbledore mug.
If they're a badass b*tch, don't let them enjoy their warm beverages like a muggle, add a little dark lord into their day with a Voldemort cup.
And if they're into writing, jotting or drawing – there's a selection of HP notebooks that will go down a charm with any witch or wizard.
Prices start at just €3 which is an absolute steal.
The range is hitting the shelves today – so get shopping.
Rupert Grint has spoken about his net worth, and it's fair to say we're more than a bit jealous.
The former Ron Weasley was interviewed by The Radio Times, and his funds happened to come up in the conversation.
Naturally, everyone has something to say about it, seeing as his worth in 2016 was estimated to be a whopping €50 million, less than half of Daniel Radcliffe's estimated worth.
He told the publication that he tries not to pay much attention to his financial needs, but says he is "comfortable". Well for some isn't it?
Figures seem to go way over his head, based on these quotes;
"I actually don't know how much I have. I couldn't even really guess."
"It doesn't really motivate me too much. It makes you comfortable, that's the good thing about it, I think. I'm glad it's there but I'm not really that focused on it."
Mr Weasley's down-to-earth spending habits appear to parallel with Harry and Hermione's.
Daniel Radcliffe told the Belfast Telegraph back in 2016 that he pretty much leaves his $100 million fortune alone.
"I'm very grateful for it, because having money means you don't have to worry about it, which is a very lovely freedom to have. It also gives me immense freedom, career-wise," he said.
The 21-year-old told OK! online that, ''Because Adam’s family’s in Newcastle and my family are in Essex, I said to him I’m not fussed about him being with me for Christmas.''
She continued, ''Because I’m with him all the other time of the year, I think it’s important to be with our families. So I said to him, ‘if you want to spend time with your family and I’ll be with mine then we’ll just see each other on Boxing Day.’''
She added, ''I’m not fussed about him being with me on Christmas Day, it doesn't bother me.''
She went on to say that her birthday is the week before and she was happy if she spent that day with her 23-year-old boyfriend.
Zara also spoke about the upcoming Love IslandChristmas reunion and how her friend Ellie Brown was feeling about coming face to face with her ex Charlie Brake.
Zara said, ''It will be the first time her and Charlie have spoken since they split. The thing with Ellie is she’s got absolutely nothing to be worried about, nothing to be concerned about.''
She continued, ''If he was to say anything to try and be nasty to her it would just completely backfire for him because everyone loves her, everyone knows she’s an amazing girl and knows that he’s just not a very nice person clearly. I think it’s gonna get a bit ugly if I’m honest.”
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