Galway Now Nov/Dec 22

Festive Guide

ISSUE

MANAGING & EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Patricia McCrossan

patricia@goldenegg.ie

FINANCE & SALES DIRECTOR

Patrick McCrossan patrick@goldenegg.ie

EDITOR

Donna Reidy-Maguire editor@goldenegg.ie

ART DIRECTOR

Jennifer King design@goldenegg.ie

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Trish O’Sullivan digital@goldenegg.ie

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Deirdre Tarpey sales@goldenegg.ie

STAFF CONTENT CREATOR

Erin Grant erin@goldenegg.ie

ASSISTANT CONTENT CREATOR

Aisling Dowd

Dearbhla McCrossan

DESIGN ASSISTANT

Maria Bru design@goldenegg.ie

Like most people, I have dreaded the ageing process. From a very early age, most of us were indoctrinated with a fear of ageing. We are continually inundated with ads to help us look younger, feel younger, or in some way, slow down the ageing process.

As a society, we tend to celebrate youth and very old age and the bit in between, well it’s kind of invisible. In this issue, we bring you the stories of four of our favourite Galway people. All with very different and inspiring stories to tell. What they have in common is that they have embraced life with a sense of eagerness and excitement and have a confidence that is unstoppable. “It’s not what happens to you but what you do with what happens that matters”

Phyllis McNamara

I recently celebrated my 60th birthday, and I can hand on heart say it feels great being this age. Actually, I feel so much better now than ever before. What I have now is something no amount of youth can give you: a lifetime of great friends, experiences and stories that only time can supply, the confidence to say no when needed, and the freedom to say yes to the next chapter. With the Festive Season just around the corner, we have compiled our Gift Guide, so please support local and Irish when you can.

Wishing you a fun and peaceful festive season.

Sean McCormack @seanmcfoto

ON THE COVER

Designer: Gabrielle Malone, Reclaim collection @gabriellemalonedesign

Photographer: Martha Mac Nulty @marthamacnulty

Makeup artist: Amy Fay @amyfahymakeup

Model: Aicha Freeman @aichafreeman

LIFESTYLE INSPIRED

People, Places and Things from Galway and the West of Ireland

BOOKS

WINTER READS

Books to hibernate with this winter

ART

ARTIST IN RESIDENCE

Homebound with Enda Burke

FASHION FASHION FORWARD

Irish designers shaping the styles and silhouettes of the future.

MERRY AND BRIGHT

AGE

THE JOY OF GROWING OLDER

Words of wisdom from well-known Galway faces.

MUSIC LEMONZEST

The debut single from Sinéad Ann

THE FESTIVE GUIDE WHERE TO DINE, DRINK, GIFT AND STAY

Our selection of the best in the west

FOOD

FESTIVE FAVOURITES

Recipes from Galway’s Poppyseed cafe

INTERIORS

NEW YORK BY DESIGN

Irish designers making their mark

OUTDOORS THE GREEN LIFE

Ageing with grace and style GET

/ Not Another Intl @notanother.intl @galway_now

CONTRIBUTORS

Kenneth Keavey

Conor Biggins

Pauline Rohdich

Lara Jonasdottir

INSPIRED

PEOPLE, PLACES AND THINGS

From Galway and the West of Ireland

Elayor Jewellery elayor.ie | @elayorjewellery

Designed in Galway, Elayor Jewellery embodies the idea of an everyday woman; simple, elegant, bold and daring. Each piece is crafted by hand with 14k gold-filled, sterling silver, gold or rhodium plated fine materials and a lot of love by founder, designer and maker Ro.

Aoife Slattery aoifeslatteryceramics.com | @aoife_slattery_ceramics

Aoife Slattery combines striking colour pallets, unusual shapes and patterns to make contemporary homeware that evokes a sense of playfulness but still works as a functional day to day object for your home.

Sam’s Studio samsstudio.ie | @doggodrawings_

Sam is an artist based in Galway, Ireland, who works with watercolour, gouache paint and coloured pencils. The subject matter varies from people to still life, landscape and floral paintings, and his pet portrait commissions have garnered massive acclaim online.

Hazel Mountain Chocolate hazelmountainchocolate.com | @hazelmountainchocolate

Located in the Burren, a spectacular destination on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, Hazel Mountain Chocolate uses local, sustainable, natural ingredients and sources the best cacao beans for their chocolate. You can also visit their chocolate shop on Middle Street, Galway city.

Brisha Candles @brishacandles

Brisha Candles bring the nostalgic, vibrant, calming and sensory scents of the Wild Atlantic Way to your home. These handmade soy candles are made in Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare.

WINTER READS

There is nothing like tucking into a good book, and it’s especially enjoyable during the holidays. Here are our favourite page turners to curl up with on the long winter evenings, that also double up as gorgeous gifts for the festive season.

Finucane: My Life With Marian (Hardback)

Sisters: Nine Families Of Sisters Who Made A Difference

edited by Siobhán Fitzpatrick, Mary O’Dowd

Nine writers trace the public and private lives of nine sets of sisters who overcame social, political and gendered barriers.

Through Her Eyes: A New History Of Ireland In 21 Women

by Clodagh Finn

by John Clarke,

with Kathy Sheridan

The first to champion ‘women’s issues’ on the radio in Ireland, Marian was a familiar voice in homes across the country. This book is a love story expressed by her husband, telling tales of their time together.

Classical Women: They Broke Barriers In The World Of Music

by Noel Culleton

Noel Culleton tells the life stories of 26 female composers who broke the male-dominated barriers to composing great music.

This book shows Ireland as we have never seen it before through the eyes of 21 women who have often been left out of the history books.

Poems For When You Can’t Find The Words

Edited by Mary Shine Thompson

This is a selection of poems by well-known authors created by Poetry Ireland and The Irish Hospice Foundation to read during difficult times.

Feeling old is a choice

by PAULINE RODHICH

Would you do it? Your mind is your most powerful aid in influencing how you age. You can harness that power to change how you think in a way that will transform your perception of advancing in life. Wayne Dyer said, “When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.” When you apply this idea to ageing and look for all its favourable attributes, it can change your life. You can start by seeing yourself differently. Instead of saying, ‘I’m ageing, you might say I’m sageing,’ celebrating your acquired wisdom from a welllived life. What you say to yourself and what you think about yourself is what matters most. Our thoughts do create our reality and are intricately connected to our bodies. For example, thinking about tiredness, hunger or sex will cause us to generate feelings and physical reactions in the body.

If you think and act old, you may grow old prematurely. On the other hand, thinking and acting young can delay the ageing process. We must consistently find a new way of communicating with ourselves because we have been conditioned to believe that old age is unavoidable.

When you expect to suffer from ailments that your parents or siblings have, it often becomes a selffulfilling prophecy. Believing that you are predisposed to an illness just because "it runs in the family" has an enormous effect on you. Even though there are hereditary illnesses, it is important to be aware of not identifying with something you don’t want.

It could be said that the body you have today is a reflection of the thoughts you have about ageing when you were younger and the body you will have in the future will be the result of the thoughts about ageing that you are thinking now.

With that in mind, let’s focus on cultivating a mindset that’s rich in youth-inducing ideas about ageing and our future selves. Telling yourself your cells are young causes them to respond and behave accordingly. Our body is always listening, so if you say that you’re too old to go to the party or run a 10K, your mind and cells will accept this literally. In turn, you will begin

to feel and act older. Making a very simple change to your thinking will have a very different effect on your body. Instead, “I’m feeling a little tired this evening; I’ll give the party a miss this time.” This suggests a temporary feeling rather

Live

OSCAR WILDE

than a permanent one. It doesn’t mean you’ll be tired or too old tomorrow. Focus on how you want to be, never on how you don’t want to be. In other words, keep your mind on what you want and off what you don’t want.

Here are a few thoughts to help with feeling younger as you age.

- I have a phenomenal memory, and if I forget something, it has nothing to do with my age.

- I can look stylish at any age. I choose what to wear.

- My brain loves learning, and I love doing new things.

- My mind is mentally sharp and ageless.

- I retain information easily and can recall it fast.

- My body feels young. I am remaining young, healthy and vibrant.

- I am capable of achieving my goals no matter my age.

- I love mixing with people of all ages.

- I maintain a youthful appearance because I cultivate an inner beauty that radiates from me.

- I believe that it’s never too late to start something new.

Repetition is the first law of learning. When you repeatedly tell yourself such suggestions, you are developing neural pathways in your brain and sending powerful messages to your subconscious mind that will cause you to feel younger. Enjoy the process and see yourself looking and feeling younger, whatever your age.

Pauline Rodhich is the creator of Just Pause, a transformational business with a mission to remind each person that they have the power to change their life and cultivate unconditional happiness. She is an advanced RTT Clinical Hypnotherapist, Life Coach, Happiness Trainer, Yoga & Meditation Teacher, and NLP Practitioner. paulinerohdich.ie

your life and forget your age

In a world that glorifies youth and anti-ageing, society seems to struggle with us showing signs of ageing as if it were something we should feel ashamed of or fear. Many people dread getting older and often subscribe to lying about their age. They fear losing their looks, mobility and mental capacity as if it’s all downhill after a certain stage of life. But what if thinking differently about ageing helped you to look and feel younger?

ARTIST IN RESIDENCE HOMEBOUND

ENDA BURKE | WWW.ENDABURKE.COM | @ENDA35MM

Enda Burke started his creative journey with a PLC course in Film Production in Galway in 2008. After completing that course, he says that he ‘managed to scrape a portfolio together’ and was accepted into Gray’s School of Art in Scotland to study a BA in Visual Art. After that, Enda turned his focus toward street and narrative photography for most of his practice and then when the pandemic hit in 2020 he switched to set building and visual storytelling.

Enda’s work draws inspiration from old vintage interiors, with his final pieces feeling like stills from films you would have gone to see in the cinema during another decade. Each photograph is playful and invites the viewer into intimate spaces, quite often his family home, offering a colourful look at some of life's seemingly mundane and routine activities. His series, Homebound, which he created with his parents during lockdown, was devised as an anecdote to the dreariness many people felt at the time. It was also born out of necessity as his previous subjects were nowhere to be seen. ‘As a result of the pandemic, I couldn’t photograph busy streets anymore, there were none, and so I started building sets in my home. Here I portrayed my parents as the protagonists, which was a lot of fun. Although, maybe not as much fun for my Mam, who was growing impatient with me turning the house upside down. I was about one more set away from being kicked out! He reflects on this time creating Homebound and why he thinks it was so successful. ‘I think the series worked because it was a relaxed environment and my parents weren’t too stressed or camera shy. I don’t think the series would have worked as well if a stranger photographed my parents’. By injecting colour, playfulness, humour and some Catholic iconography into his work and delivering it with a kitsch feel, he could alleviate some of the tension during this period and bring joy to others, something his work regularly does. He says, ‘People have approached me on the street and told me that they got a kick out of the series, and that was the most important thing for me. Art is about having fun, and if someone gets a kick out of the series, that makes me happy’.

The origins of a sensational series like Homebound, and Enda’s other works, is born both from a combination of going with the flow, jotting down ideas as they strike,

along with a more meticulous planning approach including well matched colour palettes, hours of research, and precise attention to detail. Enda says, ‘I usually start by keeping a sketchbook full of research and ideas. If I'm out and about and I get some inspiration, I'll write it down in a note on my phone. Often, I get a lot of my ideas when I’m drifting off to sleep so I keep a pad next to my bed. When I start a new project, I won’t pick up my camera or build a set until at least a month into developing ideas and research. I pay extra careful attention to detail when working on a shoot, so one image might take up to three weeks to complete’. Growing up in Galway and Ireland has also profoundly impacted his work. This is why many of his pieces incorporate Catholic iconography and relatable concepts, items which were everywhere in his formative years. ‘Catholic iconography was ubiquitous. I remember as a kid these statues and pictures being everywhere. The images both mesmerised and confused me. Who are all these people in the pictures, and why can’t I meet them in real life?’ In this way, by setting his own scenes, Enda was able to pay homage to and expand the wonder around these figures.

Working as an artist in Ireland has granted him an unusual balance between support and struggle, something he thinks impacts all of society. ‘I would say for the majority of people in Ireland, life is quite difficult in the current climate whether you're an artist or not’. Yet, Enda says that he has received support and that the community has been a massive help to his success. ‘In Ireland, there is a lot of support for artists. I have had an artist bursary and a lot of help and exposure through various organisations. I recently participated in a photography scholarship residency in America, which I thoroughly enjoyed and learned a lot from. The Homebound series has won multiple International photography awards, which was very helpful for me. The recently opened Outset gallery + Design in Galway has been supportive of my work, and I highly recommend that anyone interested in art pay them a visit’. There is still, however, much that can be done towards valuing artists and their work, with Enda offering words on an issue which needs to be addressed. ‘One phrase I would like to ban is, “I'll pay you with exposure” as, unfortunately, artists, designers and creatives hear this phrase too often’. With this in mind, Enda offers advice to emerging artists who are developing their craft today. He urges them to persevere and continue to create even when it seems no one is noticing, ‘My advice would be to keep making work. I like the mantra “build it, and they will come”. I finished my degree way back in 2013, and only in the past 2 years have I gained some momentum’. This well deserved recognition has included some incredible successes, for which Enda is grateful and proud of. ‘The highlight of my career so far was being interviewed and featured in the Guardian newspaper. I have also just been recently shortlisted for the Zurich

Portrait award, and it will be a huge honour for me to have a portrait of my friend Deirdre hanging in the National Gallery’.

If you are eager to see Enda’s work in person, it is currently on display in the Gascoine Gallery In Maine, USA, and closer to home, in the west of Ireland, there are some pieces available to view in the Outset Gallery, Galway. From the 26th of November until April 2023, Enda will have a large piece on display at the National Gallery alongside a host of talented artists. As for the future, Enda finishes by teasing what is yet to come, having recently completed the first draft of a book on the Homebound series, which he hopes to release in early 2023.

FASHION FORWARD

This season's Irish Winter collections boast colour, texture, natural textiles, gender fluid design and a commitment to sustainability. Here are some fashion forward creatives shaping the styles and silhouettes of the future.

Image: Mise Tusa

FASHION FORWARD

MISE TUSA

Brought to life in anticipation of their London pop-up, Mise Tusa ‘Renew’ is rooted in the vision of nourishing individuality, with a practical yet decidedly contemporary sensibility. A revival of signature shapes, styles and transformational elements. The collection is a continuation of Meritta’s affinity for creating adaptable and adjustable pieces. Infused with meaning and sentiment, the collection contains vintage watch straps that belonged to Meritta’s late uncle Andy and other considered details.

Heritage Irish wools and silks, specialist luxury fabrics, and vintage trimmings are formed into a distinct and authentic reflection of Mise Tusa. Each piece is designed and handmade in their studio in Galway, Ireland by artist and designer Meritta and their small talented team of women.

Mise Tusa will be showcasing at their standalone pop-up store in London’s Marylebone from the 14th November until the 3rd December. Visit the pop-up at 67a York Street, London, W1H 1QB.

Misetusa.ie | @misetusa.ie

FASHION FORWARD

GABRIELLE MALONE

Gabriellemalonedesign.com

Reclaim is inspired by a visit to the west of Ireland in which Gabrielle took note of the many abandoned cottages, sheds and ship graveyards that reside there. Subsequently, she noted how nature has slowly taken over these abandoned spaces and 'reclaimed' them. This collection was further inspired by invasive flora, our natural world's endurance and nature's longevity. This is a theme that Gabrielle feels is especially important in the current climate with so much plastic waste,

and as a result, she uses all natural biodegradable yarns. Gabrielle says, 'I explored this concept through different stitches. Broken ribs in stark black and slate blues symbolise the crumbling bricks of abandoned structures, contrasted by organic shapes and asymmetric lines in mossy greens and soft whites to represent the flora'.

FASHION FORWARD

COBBLERS LANE

cobblerslane.com | @cobblerslane

Having lived in Canada for 12 years, viewing the Northern Lights became a familiar but welcomed occurrence for Monica Walsh. As with everything Mother Nature creates, the light show provided by the Northern Lights was always when you least expected it and always stole your full attention. Whether it was coming home from a long day's work or an evening of cocktails and

laughter, when Mother Nature performed, you stopped and soaked up the magic. The latest collection, "Northern lights," is inspired by time spent watching the Aurora Borealis dancing across the sky and the enchantment of the starry night sky transforming, filled with green, blue and violet hues.

FASHION FORWARD

CAOIMHE MURPHY

caoimhemurphy. ie | @caoimhe.murphy.design

Influenced by Victorian silhouettes, poetry and anatomical studies, the collection features two prints designed in-house, hand-beaded frothy tulle pieces, and of course, her signature fabric manipulation in silks and taffeta. Caoimhe wants you to feel like you're wearing a love letter

to yourself. With a continued commitment to sustainability, you will find GOTS organic cotton and GOTS printed organic cotton using OEKOTex certified inks make up the majority of the collection, in a palette of black, teal, fuchsia and blush. Each piece is made with care in Dublin.

FASHION FORWARD

CIARA ALLEN

ciaraallendesigns.com | @ciara_allen_designs

With each collection, Ciara takes steps to become a more sustainable brand. This collection looks at the idea of 'localisation', trying to celebrate and use some of the amazing fabrics we produce right here in Ireland. The tweeds used for Ciara Allen's Autumn Winter collection 'Fractal' were produced in Kerry by the Kerry Woollen Mills. While maintaining their usual pops of colour, Ciara used a contrasting red tweed to create interesting contour lines within the coat and

trousers, taking this traditional material and using it in a contemporary way, keeping the streetwear feel of the brand. The use of mathematics in creating shapes and exploration of fractal repeat patterns and continuous repeat prints can be seen in the work. As always, Ciara's collection is entirely unisex and allows for more versatility and play in wearability and styling. All pieces are handmade to order, ensuring that only what is needed is produced.

MERRY & BRIGHT

words by TRISH O’SULLIVAN

Whether you're preparing a festive family lunch, lucky enough to be lounging in your pj’s or just feeling a little extra, there are no rules when it comes to the perfect Christmas day outfit. Whatever your plans for December 25th, we've rounded up our favourite pieces to help you celebrate in style, from cosy cashmere to statement dresses and luxe loungewear.

EMU Wrenlette Slippers Brown Thomas, €69

Tweed Turband Emily Jean Atelier, €55

Organic Cotton Pyjamas Moon + Mellow, €190

Carat London 9ct White Gold Stud Earrings Hartmanns, €179

FEE G Naomi dress Treasure Chest, €266

Lodi Sorayas Heel Sheneil Shoes, €155

Gabor Sock Boot Greenes Shoes, €120

Cashmere RollNeck Jumper Arket, €190

Coccinelle Melody Handbag Anthony Ryan's, €270

Pleated Midi Skirt Selected, €89.99

DR. LAURA CLINIC

As a trained GP with a PG Cert in Dermatology, numerous aesthetics qualifications and a business degree under her belt, Dr. Laura Lenihan, the owner of Galway’s leading GP led skin health clinic, is only just getting started. Her skincare clinic on the Upper Clybaun Road in Galway City opened in 2020 and already counts many Galwegians amongst her devoted patients. Following much demand this year she expanded her reach to include a new clinic in Dublin.

Her medical-led advice is renowned and sought after among the local community, across the country and indeed worldwide. Dr. Laura’s work has been published in various publications such as: the RTE Guide, Tatler, Image and RSVP amongst many others. She is also a Key Opinion Leader for well respected brands including La Roche Posay and SkinCeuticals and as well as being an Ambassador for Obagi.

When training as a GP, Dr. Laura always had an interest in skincare, but found the medical world lacking in knowledge on skincare routines or ingredients to complement medical based therapies. Often treatment was just that, without any thought given to preventing recurrence of issues. She uses an integrated approach to her skincare plans mixing prescription products (when required) with medical grade skincare and treatments. This allows her to get the best results for her patients and maintain these results over time. This is what makes her approach so unique in the ever changing aesthetic world.

Each patient meets with her directly meaning they get personalised, considered, and professional oneto-one care and a tailor made skincare plan they can follow at home. When deciphering what will suit each person individually, Dr. Laura makes informed medical led decisions that are best for you and your skin. Working alongside her is a team of therapists who she has trained to the highest standards.

Due to her medical background Dr. Laura has a special interest in the treatment of acne and rosacea, offering treatment plans in line with the most up to date clinical guidance. In addition to this, she also treats general skincare concerns such as anti-ageing and pigmentation. She is deeply knowledgeable in how people respond to products, treatments, and ingredients differently. When it comes to skincare, Dr. Laura strongly advocates that there is no ‘one size fits all’ solution. Most of all, she is passionate about getting the best solutions for her patients through results driven methods and personalised medically focused skincare.

Treatments offered at the clinic include skin consultations, bespoke corrective peels, SkinPen microneedling, laser services for rosacea, pigmentation, collagen induction therapy, anti-wrinkle injections, mesotherapy and Profhilo. In addition, the clinic will be the first to bring the Secret RF to the west of Ireland. This groundbreaking device offers the latest advances in skin rejuvenation. The clinic stocks some of the world’s leading skincare brands, all carefully selected by Dr. Laura for their efficacy which includes Obagi, SkinCeuticals, SkinBetter Science, iS Clinical, Heliocare and Colorescience. This means that your skin is treated to both the best service and care using science led, results driven products.

For all the latest information about Dr. Laura and the clinic, you can follow @drlauragp and @dr.lauraclinic on Instagram. If you would like to book your consultation with Dr. Laura and begin your medical-led skincare journey you can do so by contacting the clinic on 0863425716. If you have any other enquiries or would like to chat about your options with Dr. Laura, feel free to reach out by email at hello@drlauraclinic.ie

One of a kind medical led skincare in Galway

Vist Dr. Laura and her team at their in clinic event on the 10th of December from 12-4pm. More details available on Dr Laura's social channels.

OF GROWING OLDER JOY

WORDS BY ERIN GRANT | PORTRAITS BY JULIA DUNIN | DIRECTED BY PATRICIA MCCROSSAN

As a society we seem to have lost touch with the beauty of ageing, the lessons learned, the wisdom worth sharing, the gratitude shared, and the freedom that comes with embracing and being fully present in ourselves through every year of our lives. We spoke with five well-known Galway faces about everything they have learned so far, why we shy away from getting older, how Galway has aged with them and the joy of what is yet to come.

Ernie Deacy

Bright and early on a sunny Autumn morning, as the sun pours through the windows and the last of the schoolchildren have left with their treasures for the day, Ernie reflects on how it was the pandemic that most recently highlighted his age. He notes that during this time, he was forced to think about it and how others saw him because of it. 'Before Covid, it was what you could do, it didn't matter what age you were, but then all of a sudden, the divide was apparent between young and old. It was everywhere; all you heard was take care of the old and don't let them out. It was no longer about what a person could do.' He is thankful that things are gradually improving and that he can now go about his business.

As Ernie has gotten older, Galway city has changed and grown around him. He reflects on how many people he knew would have had to follow certain professions in the past but that now the younger generation isn't afraid to carve out spaces for themselves out of necessity and innovation. 'Before, we had no choice but to work in labour intensive jobs such as carpentry. Now, trendy young entrepreneurs have started new projects around the city, and I am delighted about it. I am all for youth and young people saying they have an idea.'

Over the years, Ernie has learned much from his experiences and those who crossed his path. When asked what the greatest piece of advice he ever received is, he leans in with a whisper. 'Never spend your own money!', then continues, 'when I first heard it, I thought it was the most stupid thing anyone had ever said to me. I hadn't got any money." After a few minutes

of joking, he shares some sage advice about doing what you can with what you have, no matter how little that is. 'The best advice I can give to young people is that they should save from their wages before spending and remember that there are 52 saving days in the year'. He continues by stating the importance of learning from our mistakes, 'I always say that every day is a problem solver. If you make a mistake, you've got to solve it. Good decisions keep you moving, but it's the bad decisions you really learn from'. And on retirement and trying new things, Ernie says, 'I always believe that there is a little man at the back of our heads. When you retire, the little man becomes the big man. He starts to speak and convinces you not to try new things. He holds you back, so don't let him!'

The perfect recipe for a good day, according to Ernie, is one which is divided between 5/6 hours of sleep and 5/6 hours of play, which he notes is the most enjoyable thing of all. With this long life of balance behind him, he shares some of the things he is most proud of and the days which stick out to him after all these years. 'I am proud of the fact that I didn't have a single penny when I was 21, but with a lot of hard work, I had my own house a year later. I will also always remember when my children were born and the day I met my wife; I never intended to get married. I said, if you're looking to get married, you might need to find another fella, and five months later, I asked her to marry me!'

As for making time to play, his real love lies in the solitude of fishing on the Galway lakes. He says, 'if I am not on the lake, I'm beside the lake', so you know where to find him when he isn't behind the counter on Sea Road. When asked if there is anything he does now that he wouldn't have the confidence to do when he was younger, Ernie says confidently, 'I have no fear of doing anything!'

Finally, for his future plans, Ernie leans in with that signature twinkle in his eye and announces that he and his best friend Hughie Crane will be the first two Galwegians to live to be 150 years old, followed by a bellowing laugh that fills up Galway's West End.

When asked about getting older, Ernie Deacy begins by saying that his mind and body are in conflict and that thinking about his age doesn't take up too much of his time. 'I try not to think about it. My mind is young’.

"

Good decisions keep you moving, but it's the bad decisions you really learn from.

"I am all for youth and young people saying they have an idea"

Hazel Hendy

This confidence wasn’t always as strong for Hazel as she reflected on things she would do now that she might not have done when she was younger, ‘I think when I was younger, I pandered to other people's opinions. This was always something I found difficult. I'm more confident and have a better belief in myself and my self worth. I speak my opinions even when people don't want to hear them!’ Learning and growing from these experiences has left Hazel with some advice she would give her younger self, a question she laughs at. ‘This question made me laugh out loud, as “laughter” is my currency! I wouldn't give her much advice, but I’d say, “well done, you did well. You were correct to trust yourself” if anything, I’d advise my younger self to love themself even more and not fear people's opinions — and enjoy time on your own!’ Savouring good advice is something Hazel cherishes in her own life as she remembers her favourite piece of wisdom she ever received, ‘the best piece of advice I've ever received was that with lipstick and a good pair of sunglasses, you're dressed! This was a time when life was difficult, and it felt like there was no end, but when I put on lipstick and gave myself a smile, I was set for the day. It's always great to start a day with a smile for yourself, and it reminds me of my old friend too’.

Hazel’s energy and vivacity seem to expand as she gets older, and she has continued to pursue new hobbies and goals over the last few years. ‘When I turned 50, five years ago, I took up

tennis and just this year I started badminton again after 38 years away from it. I even played a match for the Galway Lawn Tennis Club, and we came second in the league! I also like dressmaking and making corsets, which I took up after attending a class in London. I like to try making things from old things, the last corset was made from an old pair of curtains, and it is so much fun to wear them’. This love of beautiful things, sentimental pieces, and the finer things in life that many are afraid to embrace are paramount to Hazel’s happiness. ‘As I have gotten older, I find beauty in the simple things in life, like having a cup of coffee out of an old beautiful china cup and saucer that was never used by others because they were afraid it would be broken. I always use them and get great pleasure from using beautiful china’. Hazel’s well-lived life contains some other possessions which hold almost as much character as she does, ‘I was given a dress by a lady in New York back in 1991. She claimed it belonged to Marilyn Monroe. I like to think it was. I have worn it a few times and treasured it. I love clothes and have many of my grandmother's and my mother's that were handmade. But the most treasured thing I own are the stories of my life, and there are many!’.

Hazel has experienced many great achievements and successes over the years. Her proudest accomplishment so far, after seeing her children grow and develop, has been obtaining an MBA and an MSc in Corporate Social Responsibility.

‘My proudest accomplishment is getting accepted into the MBA program in NUIG back in 2010, it was a year after I closed my space Bold Art Gallery and I did not have an undergrad." I was so proud to get onto the course and recall the time and place where I got the good news. From this rich tapestry of life, Hazel says if she could relive any moment again, it would be the sheer excitement of giving birth to her children and getting to meet them for the first time.

As for her plans for the future, Hazel wants to lead a simple and enjoyable life in which she takes care of herself, keeps the balance and enjoys the world around her, ‘My plan for the future is to make life simple, to embrace change. To try to exercise a little every day, eat well and take one day at a time – to live in the moment and enjoy it. I am also working a lot at the moment. I plan to work and keep my mind active and have a balance of work and play, trying not to juggle as much. I aim to enjoy my garden, my friends and my family while spending time making good memories — this is what life is made of.’

Hazel radiates a confidence and energy that is powerful, self assured and confident, personality traits which she says have all gotten better with age. ‘The most beautiful thing about getting older is knowing myself better, I’m always learning about trusting myself and the belief, wisdom and knowledge I hold’.

" The best piece of advice I've ever received was that with lipstick and a good pair of sunglasses,dressed!you're

"The most treasured thing I own is the “stories of life”, and there are many"

Phyllis MacNamara

When Phyllis MacNamara enters a room, she fills it with elegance, light and character. Standing in The Hardiman hotel lobby, her warmth radiates and her selfassuredness inspires those around her.

Phyllis carries both the nostalgic charm of the city and its fresh modern lust for life with her and notes that while things have changed and developed in the city, she believes the essence of Galway has remained, ‘Galway has grown over the years, but for me, the heart and soul have remained the same. The river running out to the sea, the seagulls cry, the musicians on the street and the history. When I opened Cobwebs 50 years ago, the area around Quay Street was not valued. Buildings were derelict, and there was very little commercial activity, but none of that mattered to me! All I saw was the beauty of the area and the beautiful building where I opened my shop’. On getting older, she notes that there is social pressure to remain youthful but that we should embrace all the joy that maturity brings and be proud of it.

Phyllis’s keen observation and appreciation for beautiful things in life is apparent in her love of jewellery and the pieces she chooses to wear. When asked about how jewellery can hold meaning for so many and if she has a piece that evokes these feelings for her, Phyllis says, ‘Every piece I own has a special significance for me. It is my only reason to own fine jewellery’. As for the beauty of getting older, Phyllis says that the most wonderful thing about it is the appreciation she has for the most important things in life; family, friends and her grandchildren, and most of all, the time she has to appreciate them. As she has gotten older, she has the confidence to lend her expertise and experience to others, having served on government boards for the last nine years, something which she feels very honoured to still do.

This light and determination to help others live fully which radiates from Phyllis, grew out of a place of darkness when her first husband died tragically. She reflects on this time, ‘I was in the darkest place, it was a totally hopeless place, and it did not seem possible for me to recover, but I did. I came out the other side to find hope and love. Surviving that despair and sorrow and coming to a place of joy is my greatest accomplishment in life’.

For Phyllis, this place of happiness which she worked so hard to embrace continues to grow and provide her with riches. Recently at the age of 70, she married her second husband, Jimmy, in the Augustinian in Galway. Gathered at this joyous occasion were their families, children and fifteen grandchildren. Upon reflection on the day, she says it brought her, ‘such incredible joy’. Old age was all the rage at this spectacular celebration as Phyllis’ bridegroom was 73 and her bridesmaid was 75.

When she isn’t marvelling over fine jewels, lending her expertise to others or spending time with her loved ones, Phyllis prioritises herself and her hobbies, ‘I am unashamedly a jigsaw addict! Making a jigsaw while listening to classical music as I work is my way to relax’. Sea swimming is also an everyday occurrence and something which Phyllis finds therapeutic and revitalising both personally and socially. ‘Swimming is extremely important to my well being physically and socially as I swim with an amazing group of people.'

With these years of experience behind her, Phyllis has some advice for her younger self, who she would tell ‘to strive to be self-reliant and independent’. As for the best piece of advice she has ever received, it has to be that ‘it is not what happens to you but what you do with what happens that matters’. Moving forward, Phyllis wants to continue to embrace the joy of time because, in her words, ‘every day is a gift and nothing is taken for granted’.

"

I came out the other side to find hope and love. Surviving that despair and sorrow and coming to a place of joy is my greatest accomplishment in life.

"It is not what happens to you but what you do with what happens that matters."

Virtue Shine

@emeraldandwaxbyvirtueshine

Virtue Shine lightens every space she enters, leaving the places and people she finds brighter than before. Her world is a tapestry of colour, and she lives a rich, textured life threaded together with stories, wisdom and a love for getting older. Virtue moved from Ghana to New York and then to Barna, Co. Galway where she now lives with her family, runs her own business and takes long country walks with Loki the dog.

Over these years spent living in different countries, she has seen first hand the varied cultural attitudes towards ageing. For her, it carries a positive feeling, ‘I have always had a positive attitude towards ageing because culturally in Ghana, our elders are seen as wise and are very respected. As Ghanaians, the specialness of getting older is something we are made very aware of. It’s almost a gift to age, so we accept it with graciousness and gratitude. Also, on the flip side, older people can sometimes use this as an extra advantage in wielding influence and controlling situations. They can get away with a lot since our elders are the pillars of our family and the community.’

In Ireland, and in particular Galway, Virtue has noticed that generations seem to mingle together naturally, something she attributes to the population size and culture, "In pubs, you often see several generations together. In New York, bars are primarily populated by younger people. So there seem to be social differences here, and perhaps since Galway is a less densely populated city, this helps to prevent exclusion. There is, of course, a general sense in western cultures of not wanting to get old, which can be good and bad.'

One of the major disruptors to ageing with a positive attitude, Virtue believes, is our fear of the process and our perception that our value is decreasing, something which she expands on, ‘I suppose we become afraid of not matching up to what’s expected of us and it is also natural that the fear of death plays a part. Ageing is very much associated with death, and for some, it’s a very frightening truth. Whereas, I believe, if we reach 70 or 80 or whatever age, we should be jumping up and down with joy!’ Virtue also shares valuable insight into the gendered expectations that come with ageing. ‘Women are expected to look the same way we do in our 20’s and 30’s. We are meant to always look perfect and get no wrinkles despite all the biological changes that our bodies go through. As a woman, you have to balance looking great with being comfortable with ageing, which is no mean feat. Men are expected to age happily and are almost seen to improve with age. It feels like they are throwing around all their salt and pepper with joyful abandon.'

Motherhood is one of Virtue's cherished life experiences. Saying that if she could relive any day of her life, it would technically be all four of her children’s births, ‘If I could relive any day, it would be giving birth to my four children. This was on different days, but I couldn’t possibly single out any of their arrivals as preferable. So, I will choose to relive four days if that’s ok! I would repeat each of them anytime, pain and all, I swear!’. As for treasured possessions in her life, she brings it back to her family. ‘Not to sound cliché, children, even though I don't own them, are my most prized treasures', and makes room for a little material pleasure, ‘Oh and my Sephora lip balm that I hoard every time that I go stateside.'

Getting older has taught Virtue some valuable life lessons, ‘My favourite thing about getting older is how patient I have become and also learning to slow down and think before reacting to situations that would have had me exploding when I was younger. Basically, now I don’t let things bother me too much’. When reflecting on what advice she would give her younger self, Virtue says there is plenty. ‘Oh goodness, there's so much. But to start off with, I wish I hadn’t cared so much about other people’s opinions and done only what I wanted’, followed by, ‘Try to float through life with your feet firmly on the ground’. As for the best advice she has received so far, she says it has to be these three things, ‘don’t sweat the small stuff. Hold good friends dear and don’t hold grudges (a big thing that having children teaches you!)’. Moving forward, Virtue has plans to expand her business to every corner of the world, hoping to ‘make Emerald & Wax a global brand’ and most of all, she is excited to make more time for her favourite things, ‘hopefully one day I will be able to work a bit less and have a little bit more time to sleep, dream, hang out with the kids and walk Loki."

"

I have always had a positive attitude towards ageing because culturally in Ghana, our elders are seen as wise and are very respected

"Try to float through life with your feet firmly on the ground"

THE WORLD IS HER STAGE

The hairdressing icon is very passionate about her career and a true visionary for her creative work. Sarah is a Wella Professionals Master Colour Expert, a title which comes with a scientific understanding of colour, and she is also a Master of Advanced Craft Cutting skills.

As a result of her craftsmanship, the International hairdresser is well known to the competition floor; twice crowned Irish Hairdresser of the Year in 2008 and 2015, Wella Professionals Irish Trend Vision Gold Winner 2012 and AHS Visionary Winner for Colour in 2015. In 2016 she was nominated by her peers to receive and be named as an Irish Icon of her industry as she was inducted into the Hall Of Fame. Sarah has since gone on to achieve an impressive list of awards and accolades, while also judging at prestigious events. In October of this year, at the Wella Professionals Trend Vision Award UK and Ireland Final, Sarah was chosen to present two models live on stage in collaboration with 7 other Wella Artists in the incredible Magazine London Canary Wharf. The models hit the runway as the ‘Wella twins’ wearing matching Ted Baker trench coats chosen by Sarah for the clothes stylist. She also married her colour palette of this season's trend setting rich aubergine and cranberry tones, styling two wavy bobs to capture the detail in her colour work.

Most recently been shortlisted for Business Director of the Year. The event is sponsored by HABIC, at the inaugural Professional Beauty and Hairdressers Journal Ireland Beauty, Hair and Spa Awards 2022. Organised by the established team behind the British Hairdressing Awards, World Spa & Wellness Awards, and the Professional Beauty Awards, entries were judged independently by leading beauty and spa hairdressing experts. All finalists are invited to attend the red-carpet

awards ceremony on Sunday, 6th November, at the historic Shelbourne Hotel in Dublin. The two-day event looks set to be the ultimate celebration of the strength and influence of the Irish hair and beauty industry. On being nominated, Sarah said, ‘It’s such an honour to be nominated for this award’ says Sarah Mason. I have worked incredibly hard to build a successful salon business and to provide my clients with an all-round first-class experience - to have that recognised by some of the industry’s most respected names is very humbling. Good luck to all the finalists – I can’t wait to celebrate with everyone!’

Recently, Sarah renovated and refurbished her space on Forster Street into her ‘dream salon’ which incorporates her passion for design and signature navy and gold colour palette. This bright, inviting, and luxurious salon is stocked with all of the finest products and is expertly staffed by her highly qualified and professional team. This dedication to branding and trusted high quality products has been a very important part of Sarah’s business, and is something which allows her to stand-out and deliver exceptional quality and care. Sarah works closely with Wella, and her salon is exclusively stocked with all the leading brands from Wella Professionals, including but not limited to a WeDo/Professional Flagship, GHD Premiership, Wella Professionals, Sebastian Professional, System Professional and Nioxin.

If you’re looking for expert care, professional service and the highest standard of hairdressing available, contact Sarah and her team at Sarah Mason Professional today.

With over 25 years of experience in the Hairdressing Industry, Sarah Mason is recognised as one of Ireland's most talented award winning hairdressing artists.

Power of Belief

by Noreen McKenzie, National President of Network Ireland 2022

Wicklow, a true testament to the relevance and stability that Network Ireland branches offer their members.

Network Ireland punches well above its weight by offering leadership and support to our members while collaborating with organisations that can support our members and operating as a completely voluntary organisation.

On the 15th January 2022, I became the National President of Network Ireland, a role I took immense pride in as I looked forward to leading such a dynamic and supportive organisation. I was looking to build on the significant work of the Presidents who had gone before me, some of whom I had looked up to for several years. I, too, hoped I would provide inspiration to our members as these women had done for me.

My theme for 2022 is the ‘Power of Belief’ and, most importantly, ‘Self Belief’. Network Ireland is the longest established nationwide organisation for the professional and personal development of women in business in Ireland. In 2023 we will celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the establishment of Network Ireland, and this has caused me to reflect many times this year on the brave, courageous and pioneering women who embarked in 1983 on establishing a network to support women in business. It was a different landscape back then, and undoubtedly they encountered many struggles along the way. We are forever indebted to them.

Our 1,200 members are across all business sectors and are role models, key influencers and leaders in their communities. They are dynamic, ambitious, collaborative, encouraging, open and forward-thinking, and they believe in supporting and motivating each other to succeed.

Currently, Network Ireland has 16 branches, in Cork, Carlow, Dublin, Galway, Kildare, Kilkenny, Limerick, Louth, Mayo, Meath, Roscommon, Tipperary, Waterford, West Cork, Wexford and

As Network Ireland President, I embarked on organising two fully in person national events, the Network Ireland celebration of International Women’s Day on 8th March. This year we took this celebration to Glasson Lakehouse Hotel, where 150 women celebrated, networked and listened to keynotes from International best selling authors Sinead Moriarty and Anna Mc Partlin. Andy Moran also joined the lineup to chat about life after retiring from Inter-County Football. It was such a joyous occasion to be back in person, and the positive energy was palpable on the day.

The Businesswoman of the Year Awards 2022 branch finals took place in May and June, where 71 winners were crowned across the branch network in eight separate categories. These finalists went on to represent their branches at the national interviews. The National Conference and Awards took place on Friday 7th, October in The Salthill Hotel in Galway, with special guest speakers displaying such vulnerability and honesty in their stories. There were many key takeaways from the day. Lisa Fallon spoke about “creating an atmosphere of safe vulnerability” and advised us all to create a big safety net for each other, adding that some days we will be the safety net, while on other days we will need the safety net.

Another key piece of advice: "never take criticism from someone you would not ask for advice.” That really struck a chord with me. Sometimes as women, we focus on one criticism while ignoring numerous compliments.

That night we crowned our eight Network Ireland Businesswomen of the Year for 2022 and bestowed the Tricia Murphy Memorial Award on local Galway women Siobhan Carroll, ACT for Meningitis and Dr Suzanne McClean, Rosabel’s Rooms, for their tireless work supporting families across Ireland. Looking back on the year that has been, I have learnt so much about myself and have come to realise that I am passionate

As a Leader, it is important to believe in what you are doing and be capable of inspiring and motivating others. Having a clear purpose and then having a tribe that will embrace your vision is critical.

Network Ireland Businesswomen winners Asumpta Gallagher and Yvonne Comer with President of Network Ireland, Galway, Teresa Hanniffy and National President, Network Ireland, Noreen McKenzie.

about encouraging and developing people and great leaders. I have experienced this through Network Ireland, and I now want to continue doing the same. I want to inspire others to stand out and embrace what makes them unique.

“What you do makes a difference, but you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make .” Jane Goodall.

Network Your Blues Away

by Treasa Hanniffy, President of

Network Ireland, Galway

with the Awards ceremony taking place in the Salthill Hotel on the 11th June. These women are phenomenal in their own rights, and we look forward to seeing where their journeys take them in the future. We had the great storyteller Aoife Keady MC the night where we laughed, cried, celebrated, and danced the night away with entertainment provided by Hayley's Comet.

Which was certainly the case in 2022, as it was a remarkable year both locally and nationally after 2 challenging years due to the pandemic.

This year as President, I dared our members to Network and reap the rewards of being in a supportive network with like minded people. We had at least 30 events for our members. This was impressive, as, at the start of the year, we did not know what to expect due to covid restrictions and the challenges that were presented with regard to people being comfortable in large groups again. We had a combination of online and in-person events, which ranged from webinars with speakers, NetWalking, NetTalking and dinners that proved very popular as our members got to connect both personally and professionally.

In January, we held an online Open Evening which featured Professor Alma McCarthy - Head of the J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics, University of Galway, who discussed the latest National Remote Working Survey findings and the implications for women, followed by Celine Byrne, internationally renowned Lyric Soprano and Let’s Get Talking ambassador. This proved very popular with over 100 attendees and gave the opportunity for people to see what Network is about.

One of our annual highlights is recognising our members' great potential and talent in our Businesswoman Awards. We had 29 inspirational finalists compete for 7 award categories,

The Galway Branch winners were;

- Emerging Businesswoman Category: Adriana Taheny, ZZZANA

- Best Practice in the Solo Businesswoman Category: Asumpta Gallagher

- Established Businesswoman Category: Orla Connaughton, Aztec Medical Ltd.

- Employee Shining Star Category: Michelle Ryan, Wood PLC

- STEM Professional Category: Yvonne Comer, RugbySmarts

- Creative Professional Category: Paola Almeida, Gorgeous Design & Co.

- Power Within Champion Category: Hazel Curran, Amy’s House

These 7 finalists represented Galway at the National level on the 7th October and brought home 2 winners and 1 highly commended. Congratulations to our winners Asumpta Gallagher and Yvonne Comer, and to Orla Connaughton, who was highly commended in her Category. We are so proud of these inspirational ladies flying the flag for Galway.

Charity Lunch

Before handing over the chains to my VP Suzanne Ryan, one of my last events will be my Charity lunch on the 11th November. The theme will be “Network Your Blues Away”. Our Guest speaker will be Damian Browne, who recently completed the historic row from New York to Galway after 112 days at sea, 99 of which he was alone. Damian is the epitome of resilience and hope; after his solo journey, he knows all about the blues. As business professionals, we all know the importance of these traits and how your network is key to your success, especially when the blues hit. Tickets are limited and are available through Eventbrite.

"Women's Networks are a necessary part of life.... a mixture of empathy and brainstorming can move mountains ".

This quote by Hazel Hawke describes the power of being in a network and the impact when women support women.

Noreen McKenzie and Treasa Hanniffy

Orla Connaughton, highly commended in the Stem Category, with Noreen McKenzie

LEMON ZEST Sinéad Ann @sineadannmusic

German-Irish singer songwriter Sinéad Ann began her musical career in award-winning Irish language duo Muirsiné. After receiving the Irish Youth Music Awards BIMM Bursary and directing the Youth Chorus of Paper Boat opera commissioned by Galway 2020 in collaboration with the Irish National Opera and MFG, she graduated with a BA in Commercial Modern Music from BIMM Institute Dublin in 2021. Her debut single, Lemonzest, is pouring with themes of identity, intuition, and power, a mature combination that allowed for the singer's personal growth and development throughout her creative process. ‘For a long time, I refused to recognise the power and control I had of my own life. I felt very stuck and dwelled on a lot of frustration and sadness towards situations, people and myself.’ Sinead views this song as a way of accepting this and moving forward. ‘I wrote this song at a time when I wanted to separate myself from my self-sabotaging behaviours. As the need for superficial validation diminished, writing this song helped me find peace.’

Irish culture, which Sinéad has an immense grá for, permeates throughout her music, ‘I grew up surrounded by Irish landscapes, and it influenced my writing greatly. When I began writing, I predominantly wrote in Irish.

If it wasn’t for the Irish language, I don't think I would have sparked an interest in writing at an early age. I used to spend most of my time outside exploring. I suppose the need for magic and escapism in my life leaned me towards the music I create.’ Galway also influenced Sinéads sound, and at times it was the only place where she could comfortably write. ‘I lived in Dublin while I was studying, and I found it very difficult to write there. Busking in Galway definitely helped me explore and experiment with new material. I think being surrounded by nature and the sea along with long hours of travel wherever I went made me sit with a lot of ideas and listen to all sorts of music.’

Although she credits many avenues of support, this climate hasn’t always felt easy for Sinead to navigate, ‘Backhanded flattery fed my anxiety, and I was very disheartened by things like gender disparity in Irish radio and the outdated notions of women in music. I am grateful that change is happening and that organisations and people are promoting diversity and equality within the industry.’ Although working with others was integral to Sinead's development as a musician, it wasn’t an easy process, but the rewards were worth it, ‘I never felt “ready” to release music. I challenged myself to go beyond singing in my bedroom and decided it was time

Image credit: Julia Dunin

to share my music with others. I gathered the courage to reach out to other creatives, such as Gavin Glass, who produced and recorded the track. Then I met Michael Doherty, and in June, I returned to the studio with a string quartet and a beautiful arrangement. This literal development is heard in the track too. It begins with just me, a solo singer with a guitar and transforms into an artist with a full back line in less than 3 minutes. I’m incredibly proud of it.’

Lemonzest’s images are reminiscent of past eras garnished with a modern twist, ‘At the moment, the 60s and 70s have a hold on my aesthetic. I went for an over exaggerated and hyper feminine look to emphasise the meaning the song had to me. By incorporating a bygone days flare, I depict the role women were assigned then. While it is always fun to step into a character, the entire wardrobe for Lemonzest is actually my own clothes! I strongly advocate for sustainable fashion and alter pieces into more wearable outfits.’ The video for Lemonzest also showcases her creative palette, ‘I reached out to Louis Maxwell of Gracepark Productions. I suppose you could bring it back to the statement, “when life gives you lemons, make lemonade!”. We based the visuals and storyline around seeking freedom and the idea that I could be so busy making lemonade I’m not taking in the beauty

around me. I then commissioned Lily Saffron to illustrate the single artwork as she could visually express the track in her offbeat style.’

Sinéad’s use of Irish phrases brings a freshness to her music. ‘Irish people have such an effortlessly wonderful way with words. I think we tend to forget our way with words because we’re so used to it. Ordinary conversations inspire lyrics all the time. All the phrases and idioms gathered over the years come out as part of a song because there’s simply no better way to put it.’ This sweetness of nostalgia is paired with the tarte realisation about the value of boundaries and self accountability. ‘I feel a lot of people forget the power and control they hold over their lives. I certainly do. Setting boundaries of what you're willing to put up with is entirely personal, but it’s definitely worth opening that conversation in order to achieve what you truly want.’ She continues, ‘I did a great deal of self-reflection and healing during the making of Lemonzest. I figured out what I wanted more of in my life and let go of the things that no longer served me. I was very patient with myself, I put a lot into this single as I wanted to bring the journey I was on to life by adding a soundtrack to the landscapes in my mind.’Anáil Na beatha an t-áthrú: Change is fundamental to life.

GOLDEN BREAKS

This two-night package includes Bed and Full Irish Breakfast each morning, 2 Course Evening Meal served in Lir Brasserie.

Complimentary Tea/Coffee and Scones on Arrival.

from €139 per night

If it wasn’t for the Irish language, I don't think I would have sparked an interest in writing at an early age

"

"

Festive Guide The GALWAYnow

LITTLE LIGHT

Dublin born mum Céilí Flood designed the Little Light range of jewellery to bring hope to others after the tragic loss of her brother-in-law. Each piece of jewellery represents a feeling or moment in your life that has added to your tale. These ebbs and flows are part of the journey through life, and the pieces should be worn with pride to inspire others along the way. Each piece comes with a meaningful inscribed card. The Soul Sister pendant is the perfect gift for your sister or soul sister. €59 littlelight.ie

From dining out and sommelier level wine knowledge to show stopping hampers, party ready outfits and gifting for all budgets, we’ve compiled our top recommendations to remove the hassle from Christmas shopping and allow you to enjoy the holidays with your loved ones.

WINEPORT LODGE

Capture the calm before Christmas with an indulgent yet peaceful advent-escape to the Wineport Lodge. A luxury lakeshore room with your own private balcony nestled on the banks of Lough Ree is the perfect place to set aside time to recharge this December whilst savouring the best part of the season – the anticipation. Cosy up in the Lakeshore Lounge with a festive afternoon tea, venture out into the elements on foot, or take the complimentary bikes for a spin before sinking into the sanctuary of the hot tub pontoon at the Cedarwood Spa. Dine in the midst of uninterrupted lake views and wrap up in soft blankets next to log fires whilst enjoying good wine, good conversation and good company. The Wineport Lodge Festive Escape is ideal for couples and groups alike. Available from 1st-22nd December, from €355 per night. wineport.ie

‘Tis the season to explore some of the best the west has to offer with our ultimate festive guide.

EMILY JEAN ATELIER

The perfect party wear or gift headband this Christmas, the 'DIVA' headband is available in three colour ways: cobalt blue, black and stone. Designed in metallic fleck wool and embellished with pearls, the 'DIVA' headband retails at €58. Emily Jean Atelier is located in Moycullen, Co. Galway. emily-jean.com

THE BURREN PERFUMERY

The Burren Perfumery is a family run business that offers quality cosmetics and perfumes inspired by the landscape around them. Everything is made on site, by hand, in small batches. With a range of perfumes inspired by the west of Ireland, you’re sure to find your timeless signature scent or nostalgic notes perfect for gifting to those you care about this festive season. You can explore their full range of perfumes, body lotions, soaps and organic cosmetics in their online store. burrenperfumery.com @burrenperfumery

THE FANCY NEST

The Fancy Nest Home & Gift is located in the heart of Claregalway village. Their physical store is a sensory experience and is definitely worth a visit for your festive finds and all occasions. Inside you will find carefully considered homeware, unique pieces of furniture and trend-setting fashion accessories. Through The Fancy Nest online store you can browse high quality Irish brands and a wide range of beautiful gifts just in time for Christmas. Explore their collection of life’s little luxuries by visiting @the_fancy_nest thefancynest.com

HARTMANNS

If you’re looking for a very special gift this Christmas, then look no further than Hartmanns in the heart of Galway City. Hartmanns are exclusive agents in the west of Ireland for Faberge. Dating back to the 1800’s, gift-giving has been a long-cherished tradition at Fabergé. Explore the selection of future heirlooms at Hartmanns and discover the perfect gift for her. Choose from a selection of exquisite emerald, ruby, sapphire and diamond jewellery gifts, set in 18 karat gold, platinum or silver. And of course, Faberge’s most famous gift, the egg pendant. Pictured is an 18ct Rose Gold Dark Blue Guilloche Enamel Polar Bear Surprise Egg Pendant on Trace Link Chain. €14,395 29 William St, Galway. 091 562063 hartmanns.ie

FOXY & GREEN

Foxy and Green Gifts is your online home for unique sustainable Irish gifts. They pride themselves on promoting a selection of curated crafts from small local Irish, eco-conscious makers. Foxy and Green Gifts is a small Irish owned business listed with the Design Council of Ireland. It’s the perfect online location to find that special homegrown, made local, Irish gift this festive season. We are giving away a gift with all purchases to Galway Now readers. *To redeem your gift, use the code: NOW22 at checkout. @foxyandgreengifts #acraftylittlefind *T&C apply see: foxyandgreengifts.com

LYNSEY DE BURCA

Lynsey de Burca’s tactile jewellery in sterling silver is inspired by the elements of the Irish coastline. Her work can be described as an exploration in textures, forms and compositions. It takes its inspiration from the piers and quays along the Atlantic Way as well as the patterns and structures of ropes and fishing nets. Favouring a minimal aesthetic, Lynsey’s work comprises of organic-form pendants in silver and yellow gold, with roller embossed sterling silver links which are all hand forged in her studio in Moycullen, Galway. lynseydeburca.com

Handmade jewellery created with a passion for colour, sparkle and fun, Ear Candy by Naomi was founded on the belief that your earrings should never be boring. Bold, colourful shapes that you will not find on any high street, each piece is handmade by creator Naomi Grant at her home studio. Original statement pieces and bespoke designs at affordable prices that you will want to wear again and again. Follow on Instagram @earcandybynaomi

ARDILAUN HOTEL

The Ardilaun Hotel has the solution to all your Christmas present decisions with their Monetary Gift Card which can be topped up for use in any part of the hotel. The choices are endless from Afternoon Tea, Lunch or Dinner in The Ardilaun Bistro or Leisure Club membership, or even a weekend break in four star luxury at the hotel. It is the ideal solution as a corporate gift to your valued employees or customers this year. theardilaunhotel.ie

EAR CANDY BY NAOMI

WOLF AND WEST

Wolf + West provides an extensive range of menswear, from contemporary street style and denim to smart casual and sharp suits. They offer an exclusive service of recording sizes, taking the stress out of having to try on every time you shop, and making it an easy process for your loved ones to buy gifts. W+W promises to make every shopping experience as relaxed as possible, stocking all a man could need in one place. No matter the occasion, and especially over the festive season, Wolf + West will have you covered so you can attend events and family gatherings in comfort and style. wolfandwestmenswear.com @wolfandwestmenswear

WOOLOW - THE GIFT OF SLEEP

Give a present which can be used straight away and will benefit the person for years to come. Give the Gift of Sleep with a Woolow. Created by Michael Burke, an organic sheep farmer from Dunmore, Galway, this sustainable wool pillow has just two ingredients, wool and cotton. Wool is clinically proven to prevent germs and allergens, making it a must-have for those with hay fever or dust allergies. Its breathability and temperature control means it keeps you warm in winter and cool in summer. It is also naturally supportive. Woolow.com

5 STAR STYLING

Online ladies' fashion and accessories boutique 5 Star Styling features a range of clothing that has been carefully chosen to ensure that your body shape is catered for. Owner, Laura Kedian, is a qualified fashion stylist and has been running a successful personal styling business for the past 4 years. She is available to give you free styling advice when making your 5 Star Styling purchase. So if you are looking for that special outfit for Christmas or buying a gift for your loved one, you won't be disappointed with the range to choose from. 5starsyling.ie

LOUGHREA HOTEL

At Loughrea Hotel & Spa celebrate Christmas in style. The team have created a number of tremendous packages and options for you to choose from. You can choose to reunite and enjoy the festive season at their bespoke Christmas party nights with red carpet arrival, photographer, bubbly, five course meal, special guest ‘BlackTie Magician’, live band, late night DJ and snacks. Abbey Christmas Lunch is also available throughout the month of December, or you can indulge in an Abbey Christmas Dinner, Rooftop Christmas Evening or a Festive Afternoon Tea. Any of the events mentioned can be booked by contacting their events team, calling 091880088 or visiting their website loughreahotelandspa.com

If you’re looking for conscious gift choices, Ohh By Gum in Clifden has a gorgeous selection of adult and children’s sustainable clothing, homeware, gifts and accessories. Stocking brands such as Seasalt, Ilse Jacobsen, White Stuff and activewear brand Girlfriend Collective, you are sure to find the perfect gift for your loved ones. Ohh By Gum delivers their made-to last treasures from Connemara in environmentally friendly packaging. The Courtyard Station House, Clifden. Ohhbygum.ie 085 800 0377

OHH BY GUM

CONNEMARA EXPERT PET in focus

MILLARS

Supporting Irish design is very important to Millars of Connemara. They stock a range of fabulous Irish collections from brands such as John Hanly, Foxford, McConnell, Niamh Daniels and Ekotree, a 100% cashmere label that is designed and made in Ireland, as well as their own brand of wool scarves and throws. The shop is a treasure trove of gifts and Christmas trinkets so the perfect spot for an afternoon of festive shopping. Millars, Clifden. Millars.ie 095 21038

CONNEMARA BLUE

This family-run business is based in Connemara, and creates carefully constructed, high quality fused glass products by hand. The team loves the feeling of visitors taking joy in the intricate products they have crafted in the workshop, which is visible from and situated right behind the shop. You can browse their Christmas Shop and full range online from every corner of the world, or take a trip out to Market Square, Clifden, and see 'The Pink House' and all the festive gifts and decorations it has to offer for yourself. The Pink House, Market Square, Clifden. connemarablue.com 095 30782

INTERSPORT GANNON’S

Intersport Gannon’s is now in its 23rd year of business. Located on the square, right in the heart of the town, Intersport Gannon’s provides the highest quality sports and outdoor apparel, footwear and accessories from Nike and Adidas in sports to The North Face and Craghoppers in outdoor. So, if you are visiting the region for light recreational walks and strolls or taking on the ‘’Twelve Bens Challenge’’ Intersport Gannon’s has you covered. Open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 6pm. 095 37206, gannons.ie

RENVYLE HOUSE HOTEL

Renvyle House Hotel is a historic country house set on 150 acres on the shores of the Atlantic in Connemara, Co. Galway. An award winning hotel for food, service and hospitality with a lovely choice of activities on the grounds including an outdoor heated pool, outdoor hot tub, freshwater lake for kayaking, boating and fly-fishing and much more. A warm welcome, comfortable bedrooms, cosy fireside seats and delicious meals cooked to order; it’s the perfect place for a restful break. Their Gift Vouchers are a gorgeous gift to give someone dear to you. renvyle.com 095 46100

All I Want for Christmas is You…

Charlotte Tilbury, Charlotte’s Diamond Chest Of Beauty Stars €185.00

Huda Beauty Kayali Miniature Set €82.90

Skingredients The Rockstar Key Four Gift Set €149.50

The Ordinary The Daily Set €18.00

The Soho Supreme Styling Duo €24.95

Image Skincare Hydrate Collection €134

Blank Canvas, Tools To Match Your Talent - 40 brushes Box Set €250.00

Plouise Magic in the Memories €188.95

Lancome Absolute Soft Cream Collection €219.00

PUREJOY

Getting the best from the skin you’re in

Skin technology advancements are ensuring that Galway’s leading skincare clinic, PureJoy, is at the forefront of anti-ageing treatments, from non-surgical facelifts and eyebrow lifts to jawline sculpting and scar treatment with the highly advanced FocusDual®. PureJoy, along with FocusDual® has brought the ultimate dual skin treatment to the west! With these gold standard technologies, they can treat the skin at EVERY layer to lift, firm, and tighten. PureJoy’s team of skin experts can assess every skin type and design a specific program of skincare and rejuvenation treatments based on their consultation with you.

The clinic’s skincare team experts work with the best technology and skincare products. Constant research, training and testing have enabled Joy and her highly trained team, made up of Hilary and Tamara with Annabella on reception to devise personal skincare plans to meet your individual needs while taking into account your time and budget.

Since its arrival in March, the FocusDual® has been transforming PureJoy clients' skin texture and skin tone therefore, clients have been seeing and feeling incredible results. FocusDual® offers a unique combination of the latest clinically proven technologies for face and body treatments. Radiofrequency Microneedling and High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) come together to give maximum results to reduce the signs of ageing.

PureJoy customises a skin care program for each client. This allows them to tailor results for every skin concern. To begin your skincare journey, you will start with a full skin consultation using Observ 520, which is the most up to date scanning technology system on the market. This then examines the deeper layer of your skin so the team can better understand what is going on. From this information, the team can determine what your skin needs in order to be at its best. A joint working relationship with nutrition, hydration, skin rejuvenation and restoration procedures combined with using the best products at PureJoy means that the

team can get the very best for the skin you're in. With over five skincare ranges from Image, UltraCeuticals, AlumierMD, and ImageMD to Dermalogia, PureJoy has all the tools to help you look your best. The PureJoy Skin Care Technology System includes Nordly by Candela, Focus Dual®, Skinpen, and their Hydrafacial. Nordly by Candela, their multipurpose laser machine at PureJoy, is their go to machine for reducing redness, Rosacea, pigmentation, and skin resurfacing along with leg veins.

FocusDual® rejuvenates, tightens and restores the layers of the skin resulting in complete and total revitalisation. It encourages the production of new collagen and elastin fibres, increasing skin cell turnover rate. In addition to this, the release of radiofrequency energy heats the skin and stimulates the body’s natural healing response. The end result for the patient is a reduction in fine lines, more supple skin and less noticeable scarring. It also plays its part by using a different method to stimulate collagen production. Ultrasound energy targets the deepest layer of the skin that sits directly above the muscles. These deep tissues produce new collagen and effectively target a range of concerns. The many areas the team at PureJoy love to help their clients achieve maximum results include and are not limited to; ageing skin (wrinkles and fine lines, including smoker lines and pigmentation), acne and surgical scars, loose, sagging and crepey skin (this includes lax skin around the eyebrow), stretch marks, uneven skin tone and texture, milia (bumps under the skin), large pores, loss of facial volume, dull and lacklustre skin and leg veins.

Firm, lift, tighten, and renew your skin with PureJoy. If you would like the team to customise a program to suit your skin you can book a consultation for a tailor made skin package at www.purejoybeauty. ie, call 091 530 540 or pop into PureJoy at 18 Mainguard Street, Galway.

The

BEAUTY EDIT

Biotec Beauty

Lisa O’Flynn has owned and managed Lisa’s Health and Beauty in Clarinbridge for ten years, and has 21 years experience in the industry. Her salon is home to The Elemis Biotec 2.0 Facial Machine which offers 6 technologies in one; Oxygen Therapy, Cryo Freeze Therapy, Ultrasonic, Light LED Therapy, Microcurrent and Galvanic. Clients can experience the highest technology available all in this one Machine. The Elemis Biotec 2.0 Facial Machine is the only machine of its kind on the market and there are very few available in Ireland. As a result, Lisa can offer her clients numerous technologies that complement each other and enhance results in just one treatment. With gift vouchers available, this is the perfect treatment option for someone you love or an ideal way to practice self-care and relax before or after the festive rush. Elemis Christmas sets are now in stock. 10% off weekend 12th of November.

Contact Lisa and her experienced team on (091) 485 701

The perfect cleanse

As the driving force behind Galway’s PureJoy Skin Clinic, Joy Colleran has seen a lot of changes in skincare technology over the past 22 years. The latest innovations in skincare are outstanding and Joy is extremely proud to offer them to her clients. The Pureglow Double Cleansing Mitt is gentle, kind to skin and made of super soft microfiber. With naturally antibacterial and hypoallergenic properties it will cleanse your skin like a professional. The Mitt is perfect paired with your favourite cleanser and will leave your skin feeling free from makeup and dead skin cells. The included waterproof travel zip bag means you can take your Mitt wherever you go, keeping it fresh and clean. For more gift ideas, consultations and personalised treatment plans, call PureJoy on 091 530540 or www.purejoybeauty.ie and PureJoy on all social media platforms.

First birthday celebration

Shannon Beauty Suites are celebrating their first birthday in business on December 6th. Shannon has 10 years experience in the beauty industry and since opening her business has continued to thrive and grow with the team most recently launching their own dedicated brow bar. Providing their clients with the best treatment is a priority to the team and they are proud to use high quality products such as Image Skincare, The Manicure Company, Waxperts, HD Brows, Brow code and more alongside their personalised treatments. Shannon Beauty Suites specialise in nails, brows, lash lift, makeup and facial peels and they are the perfect choice for some festive pampering or gifting. Contact Shannon and her team on 085 262 5418

THE ALTERNATIVE APPROACH TO MENOPAUSE

Menopause is a word so many women in their ’40s are afraid to talk about. Women find themselves looking for answers and might only be given one option, HRT. So is there an alternative that allows women to accept, acknowledge and deal with the three stages of menopause: perimenopause, menopause and postmenopause?

Menopause is essentially a transition that all women will eventually go through in life, most commonly it starts somewhere between the ages of 45-55, although early, before age 45 or late menopause, after 55 can also happen. Some women breeze through without even knowing it is happening. However, hot flushes, night sweats, brain fog, and mood changes become part of the daily norm for most women. Unfortunately, these are just some of the symptoms.

Lara Jonasdottir, Medical Herbalist BSc, MSc (Clin. Ed.) based in Dr Clare’s Apothecary and Clinic in Galway offers herbal medicine for those suffering from mild to severe symptoms. Having spent years working as a medical herbalist, it is clear to Lara that many women find herbs very helpful during this new phase in their life and should see results after two months of taking the herbs.

Lara says; “Herbs such as Red Clover (Trifolium pratense), Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga racemose) and Sage (Salvia officinalis)

are generally the most commonly mentioned herbs in association with menopause, but there are many more that may be of help depending on the symptoms that are being experienced. Herbs such as Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis), Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata), Motherwort (Leonorus cardiaca) and Lavender (Lavendula spp.) can be beneficial if stress or anxiety is one of the main symptoms. Whilst hormone supporting herbs such as Red Clover (Trifolium pratense) and/or Shatavari (Asparagus racemosa) may assist better if changes in the menstrual cycle are the main symptoms.”

An important element of herbal medicine is that herbalists commonly work with herbal formulas involving more than one herb, which is helpful for the menopausal transition as every woman experiences it differently, and often, a variety of symptoms are present at the same time. Lara also points out that in addition to herbs, there are many other important lifestyle factors such as good nutrition, stress management, exercise, spending time outdoors, drinking plenty of water and one of our favourites, always looking for laughter in life.

If you are interested in finding out more about an alternative approach to menopause, Lara is available for consultation in person at Dr Clare’s Apothecary and Clinic, Galway. 091-583260 drclareapothecary.com.

Angelina Jolie has been praised for helping to “shake the shame” around early menopause, Gwyneth Paltrow feels “menopause gets a really bad rap and needs a bit of rebranding,” and Michelle Obama was “taught to be ashamed of it”.

PIXIE HAIR STUDIOS

@pixiehairgalway

Pixie hair studios has officially opened its doors on 9 Merchants road in Galway city. It may be new but it comes with decades of experience. After working together for the past 8 years, new owners Marian Gleeson and Josephine Cuddy decided to join forces and create PIXIE hair studio. They aim to provide a salon experience that is not only reliable for its ability to provide high service standards, knowledge, skills and innovative techniques but to do so in a relaxed, comfortable space. These ladies love what they do, and with their experience and knowledge comes an exceptional standard of hairdressing.

Marian is famous for her precision haircuts, her creativity coming from a strong knowledge in the foundations of cutting and her eye for detail. Jo is known for being an expert in colour, creating bespoke colours that are tailor made for the client. This makes the successful duo the Dream Team. The pixie team are passionate about what they do. Mairead Joyce who is a senior stylist at pixie, has a vast amount of knowledge in all aspects of hairdressing and her calm and professional manner puts all clients at ease. Shannan Haverty is the new kid on the block, this up and coming stylist is highly motivated, super talented with a very bright future ahead. Amber Flannagan is just starting her career, she is bubbly and enthusiastic and is a great addition to the team.

to fun fashion tones they cater for all needs, with Joico, Alfaparf and Kemon colour ranges to choose from. Every clients’ home care regime is very important and product advice is always readily available. The salon shelves are always fully stocked with Alfaparf, Joico, Olaplex and Moroccan oil ranges. Pixie takes pride in keeping up with all the latest trends and products and are continuously upskilling.

Pixie is all about the client, making them feel beautiful everyday with easy to maintain wearable hair that suits their hair type, skin tone and lifestyle. It is important that every client who visits the salon is able to manage their hair at home. The team endeavour to provide advice for their clients as well as creating the best shape and colour providing the perfect look, thus ensuring everyone leaves with a smile on their face.

To celebrate the opening of Pixie, Marian and Jo are having a launch party in the salon on November 13th at 4pm, so pop in and check it out. This collaboration has a very exciting future, you will be in good hands with these gals and their team!

Teaming up with Xpert professional, the salon uses only the best products. From natural organic colouring

Bliss for Body and Mind

For bookings and gift vouchers visit: wineport.ie email: lodge@wineport.ie call: 353 (0)90 6439010

Soak in the outdoor seaweed baths. Let our therapists work wonders in our intimate cedar clad treatment cabins. Re-energise in our lake side infinity plunge pool. Then push the boat out with a dinner to delight and while enjoying unbeatable views over the water. This is bliss.

‘Let The Feast Begin’

Christmas food and wine pairings from Joe at The Wine Buff Galway.

There is no better joy than opening a fabulous bottle of wine for Christmas dinner and sharing it with family and friends. Pairing wine with food is not as difficult as it may appear. It is all about balance, light foods with light bodied wines, medium foods with medium bodied wines and heavy and hearty dishes with full bodied wines.

Starters

For starters, smoked salmon is one of the favourites with The Wine Buff customers. Choose a nice Champagne like Herve Mathelin Privilege or a Chablis from Domaine Colbois, which has good acidity to bring out the salmon's smoked flavour and oily texture.

Dessert

For Dessert, a general rule is to have a wine that is sweeter than the dessert itself. With traditional sherry trifle, pair with a Pedro Ximenez, and pair Christmas pudding with a good Ruby port.

Dinner

For many of us, Christmas dinner is all about the turkey. As turkey is a low-fat meat, avoid wines that are too tannic, as they will make the meat seem harsh and dry. There are also many other flavours and textures with the stuffing, cranberry sauce, gravy and all the trimmings, so any fruity wine with low or integrated tannins and good acidity will work well. Good red options are Apollonio Copertino from Puglia in Italy, the fantastic Chateau

Rocher Gardat from Montagne

Saint Emilion or Domaine Maratray-Dubreuil Pinot Noir from Burgundy. Try an excellent full-bodied Chardonnay like the Mas de Novi from Languedoc for white.

Cheese Board

When the cheese plate appears, leftover wines from the dinner are good options, but there are also some exceptional cheese and wine matches. Hard cheeses like cheddar or Manchego pair well with medium bodied Rioja. Sancerre or New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc is an excellent match with goats' cheese. Blue cheeses pair well with sweet wines, like Sauternes with Roquefort or stilton and Cashel blue with a superior quality tawny port like Van Zeller 10-year-old.

For advice as well as quality, well priced wines this Christmas, contact The Wine Buff Galway.

SHARED CHRISTMAS PARTY NIGHTS

- Festive evening meal

- Christmas novelties

- And most importantly “Craic agus Ceol” with our live band & DJ

FRIDAY 9TH DECEMBER 2022

Party the night away with Footloose Band & DJ

SATURDAY 10TH DECEMBER 2022

Dance the night away with SUM CRAIC Band & DJ

SATURDAY 7TH

Too busy to party before Christmas? Join our PostChristmas Party Night with the Amazing Apples Band & DJ

PP

CELEBRATE IN STYLE

The Galmont Hotel

It’s the thoughtful touches that make the biggest difference during the festive season, and The Galmont’s fantastic team of little helpers has crossed everything off their list. Arrive to delicious mince pies, hot chocolate or mulled wine on check-in. The indulgence continues on Christmas Eve with a three-course dinner bursting with seasonal ingredients in Marinas Restaurant followed by live entertainment from the resident musicians in Coopers Bar & Lounge. Don’t forget to collect your carrots and milk from the kitchen team before bed! Christmas morning begins with a leisurely breakfast and perhaps a stroll down Salthill promenade. Bubbles and canapés set an elegant tone before your festive lunch with all the trimmings, followed by a special someone stopping by. Later, enjoy a light evening supper of homemade sandwiches and treats. For family Christmas stays, reservations@ thegalmont.com or visit www.thegalmont.com

The g Hotel

Swaddled in Five-Star Luxury, surrounded by magical design and steps away from the bohemian city of Galway, the g is a Never Ordinary Hotel. The design led hotel has sparkling spaces; fashion and fun are in their DNA, and it is the perfect location for a gathering with friends, family or colleagues this holiday season. In a region known for its incredible ingredients, in a city famous for foodies, in a hotel devoted to delight, you know the Christmas dining experiences are never going to be ordinary. With a big hearty welcome, beautiful backdrops, mouth-watering food, enchanting cocktails and heavenly spa treatments, an extraordinary Christmas experience awaits you. 091 865200 or visit theghotel.ie.

Gourmet Food Parlour

Season’s Greetings from all of us here at Gourmet Food Parlour in Salthill. Gather your friends, family & favourite colleagues and make this year’s Christmas celebrations memorable with a GFP festive feast! Our gorgeous set menus, extensive hand-selected wine list, delicious cocktail selection and brilliant teams are all ready to help you celebrate this holiday season! Our reservation team is on hand daily from 9am – 5pm to take your query. 01 895 7565 reservations@gourmetfoodparlour.com

Christmas Party Nights at Clayton Hotel Galway

The festive season is nearly upon us, so when planning the perfect Christmas party in Galway, then look no further than the award-winning four-star Clayton Hotel Galway. Whether it is a private party, shared big band party night, or just some nibbles in the bar, then the Clayton Hotel Galway has the perfect offering for every taste. With a number of Christmas party nights already completely sold out, do not delay in booking a place on either Friday the 9th of December or Saturday the 10th of December for a shared big band Christmas party night at Clayton Hotel Galway. The party night, which costs €55.00 per person includes a mulled wine drinks reception with music from Altrad, a delicious five course festive meal, Christmas novelties and entertainment provided by a band and DJ. The amazing Footloose will rock the Clayton on Friday the 9 th and SUM CRAIC will entertain on Saturday the 10th. To enquire about any of the festive offerings at Clayton Hotel Galway, call 091-721900 or email our dedicated Christmas co-ordinator on sales. galway@claytonhotels.com.

Festive Flavours

Christmas is a magical, precious time of year and an opportunity to spoil ourselves, cook, create, chat and celebrate. At PoppySeed, it is a non-stop adventure. The longed for festive flavours from our bakery, especially our magnificent mince pies, set us up for a tasty season through December.

Delicious treats from near and far adorne our café shelves, hampers fill the floor, and trips to the post office sending tastes of Ireland across the globe become a daily excursion. All this happens while catering takes a whirl through offices and homes as everyone savours this time of year. For our festive baking treats, Chef Paolo has opted with an

Italian classic; Panforte di Siena, which is a welcome addition to your biscuit and treat tin. Secondly he shares his family favourite, Ricotta Tart, which is the perfect dessert for your Christmas table. As Christmas draws in, we at PoppySeed wish you and yours the best of health, happiness, joy and all the magic the season offers.

Festive Ricotta

INGREDIENTS

225g / 9oz Plain Flour

150g / 6oz Soft Butter

75g / 3oz Caster Sugar

2 drops vanilla essence

1 Egg

FOR THE TART FILLING

Fills a 24cm Tart Tin

250g / 10oz Fresh Ricotta Cheese

1 Egg

30g / 1oz chocolate drops

30g / 1oz pine nuts, chopped

1 Orange, Zest Only

50g / 2oz Sugar

2 Drops of Vanilla Extract

6. Carefully transfer the pastry to the greased tart tin, pressing down into the corners and edges.

7. Line the pastry case with a piece of parchment, fill with baking beans and bake blind for about 10 – 15 minutes.

8. Meanwhile, prepare the filling. Beat the ricotta, egg, sultanas, pistachios, orange zest, sugar and vanilla together to combine well.

1. Preheat oven to 180 Celsius

2. Lightly grease a 24cm tart tin with a removable base TO MAKE THE PASTRY

3. Combine flour, butter, sugar, vanilla & egg and beat with a wooden spoon or in a food processor until it forms a soft dough, taking care not to overwork it.

4. Layout a piece of parchment on your work surface and dust with flour.

5. Form the dough into a ball, flatten and roll out with a lightly floured rolling pin, to a thickness of about 6mm, turning the parchment to move the dough.

9. Once the pastry has baked to a light golden brown, remove the parchment and beans, and pour in the ricotta filling.

10. Return to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes.

11. Remove and allow to cool before gently easing the tart out of the tin.

12. Serve with your choice of winter berries and fresh cream.

13. Store in the fridge until 20 mins before serving. The ricotta tart will hold for 3-4 days, making it a perfect dessert to prepare in advance!

Panforte di Siena

The Panforte of Siena is a traditional Christmas cake dating back to the 19th Century. Often known as ‘Panmielato’ the cake is made using a base of flour, honey, spices and dried fruits. The Panforte is now enjoyed across Italy throughout the year and not just at Christmas.

INGREDIENTS

1 x 18cm diameter round tin – line the tin with a disc of parchment or wafer paper

200gr Almonds

100gr Hazelnuts

120gr Mixed peel

120gr Bakers flour

150gr Honey

150gr Caster Sugar

2 tsp freshly ground Cinnamon, star anise & clove OR of mixed spice powder

1. Toast the Almonds and hazelnuts for 10 minutes at 180C. Remove from the oven and chop into midsize pieces. This can be done in a blender or using a chopping knife.

2. Place the honey and sugar in a medium saucepan and put on a low heat. Bring slowly to the boil, to 130 degrees if you have a thermometer, or until the sugar is fully dissolved.

3. Mix the flour, dried fruit, nuts and spices in a mixing bowl.

4. When the honey and sugar are completely melted, remove from heat and rest for 1 minute.

5. Add the dry ingredients to the honey and sugar and combine thoroughly.

6. Pour the mix into the prepared tin.

7. Dampen the palm of your hand and press the mix firmly into the tin. Keep dampening your fingers to ensure the mix does not lift or stick. Continue until the mixture is flat in the tin.

8. Cook at 150C for 15 – 20 minutes

9. Remove from the oven, check that the centre of the cake is firm to ensure it is cooked through.

10. Leave to rest for 5minutes and turn out from tin onto your serving platter.

11. To serve, dust generously with Icing sugar.

12. Enjoy with sweet wines, port or mulled wine.

Chef Paolo Bunato

BUSHY PARK VETS EXPERT

PET CARE HERE FOR YOU

Bushypark Vets opened their doors in 2019, and have firmly become one of Galway’s leading privately-owned veterinary clinics offering the most up-to-date medical care for your pets. They are currently in the process of moving premises to 60 Upper Newcastle road (beside Corrib Village). This new building will allow the team to have more space, while also offering separate cat and dog consultation rooms and areas. As a result of the move they will therefore be able to expand their services to help more patients.

The dedicated team of 6 vets and 5 nurses provide a wide range of services including vaccinations, microchipping, neutering, in-house bloods, x-rays and ultrasounds. They also perform both routine surgery and emergency surgeries and can offer orthopaedic surgery to their patients. They always put their patients first and everybody working there has the perfect combination of both a vibrant work ethic and a love for animals.

For first time pet owners, Bushypark Vets can help you through the process and guide you so that you and your pet can enjoy this new experience together. Getting a new pet can raise a lot of questions and concerns.

Bushypark Vets offers puppy and kitten checks to give your new furry friend a full clinical examination and invaluable advice. Puppies and kittens grow at a fast rate and the team wants to ensure they are doing so without any complications. They will provide support on important topics such as diet for your puppy or kitten along with parasitic treatments, worming, vaccines, enrichment and neutering.

All members of the team are specialised in particular areas while also having the skills to work across various areas. Maeve’s expert team includes Veterinary Surgeon, soft tissue and surgery specialist Seamus McManus who is with the practice one day a week, Veterinary

Surgeon Vera Lichtenhahn who loves orthopaedics and neurology, Ophthalmologist Brigit Lohmann who had her own canine and feline ophthalmology clinic in Germany before retiring and moving to Ireland where she realised she missed practice and commenced working at Bushypark, Veterinary Surgeon Ruth Heneghan with a special area of interest in felines, Veterinary Surgeon Malwina Jankowfka who has a

of interest in diagnostic and medical nursing, Veterinary Nurse Fiona Linnane who specialises in nutrition, dental Health and critical care, Veterinary Nurse Hannah Ruane who specialises in animal behaviour and Veterinary Nurse Megan Hopkins who has a passionate interest in surgical nursing and inpatient care. This professional, qualified and considerate team pride themselves on delivering the best quality care to their clients.

Maeve and her team pride themselves on their strong relationships with clients and community, ‘we absolutely love our clients and have a fantastic relationship with them’, she continues, ‘they have mostly found our practice by word of mouth, meaning our customers are satisfied with the service and passing on our information to others, something we are very grateful for’. This reliable, honest and caring service delivered by Bushypark Vets has made them a firm favourite among pet owners in Galway.

As many of us know, bringing pets to the vet can be a worrying, stressful and unpredictable process but the team at Bushypark Vets always strive to put their clients and owners at ease. Maeve says that, ‘removing pain or discomfort and enhancing the quality of life of a pet is one of the most rewarding things the team can offer’. With an expert caring team of veterinary practitioners and a clinic that is registered and accredited with the Veterinary Council of Ireland, Bushypark Vets pride themselves on their place in the community as a trusted, friendly, privately run practice that is passionate about providing the utmost professional care throughout your pet’s life.

strong interest in internal medicine Veterinary Nurse Shauna O Halloran with a focus on emergency in critical care, Veterinary Nurse Gina Burke with a special area

Maeve Walsh

M.V.B. Owner and Veterinary Surgeon Special area of interest: Dermatology and Dentistry

Vera Lichtenhahn Veterinary Surgeon Special area of interest: Neurology Chiropractic and Orthopaedic Surgery

Seamus McManus Veterinary Surgeon Special area of interest: Soft Tissue and Surgery

Malwina Jankowfka Veterinary Surgeon Special area of interest: Internal Medicine

Hannah Ruane Veterinary Nurse Special area of interest: Animal Behaviour

Fiona Linnane Veterinary Nurse Special area of interest: Nutrition and Dental Health

Megan Hopkins Veterinary Nurse Special area of interest: Surgical Nursing and Inpatient Care

Brigit Lohmann Veterinary Surgeon Special area of interest: Ophthalmology

Ruth HeneghanVeterinary Surgeon Special area of interest: Feline Medicine

Gina Burke Veterinary Nurse Special area of interest: Diagnostic and Medical Nursing

Shauna O Halloran Veterinary Nurse Special area of interest: Emergency in Critical care

Supporting Local

Creative Bathrooms at Tubs & Tiles

In addition to being a well known interiors retailer Tubs & Tiles are also commercial tile and bathroom specialists with extensive experience in specifying tiles and bathroom ware for hotel and leisure facilities, corporate offices, restaurants and retail outlets. The Tubs & Tiles commercial team offer technical expertise and professional interior design services to help bring a creative touch to bathrooms for homeowners, guesthouses, B&Bs and hotels. Tubs & Tiles have contributed to a variety of recent commercial projects including Glenlo Abbey Hotel, The Galmont, Alcock & Brown Hotel Clifden, Cavan Crystal Hotel, Seapoint Leisure, Udaras Na Gaeltachta and Supermacs Plaza. A recent project featured Jolie Italian marble effect tiles by Mirage. tubstiles.ie

Welcome Winter with Amber Holistic

For over a decade, Amber has been providing the community with holistic products, self-care solutions and unique gifts. This festive season they have curated exclusive hampers and themed boxes such as their ‘Green Witch’ and ‘Happiness’ packages which focus on wellness, alternative healing and mindfulness to see you through the Winter season. They also stock salt lamps to help bring brightness into the darker evenings, and selenite to promote peace, calm and clarity during this busy time of year. With something different, and something for everybody, Amber welcomes you to their shop on Mary’s Street to explore everything they have to offer. You can also shop their full range of products online at holisticproductsireland.com, call (091) 567 810 and keep up to date on Instagram @amber_holistic_gift and Facebook @ambergift

Find Your Perfect Floor with Tom Dempsey Flooring

With over 35 years experience in the flooring industry, the dedicated team of professionals at Tom Dempsey Flooring offer honest advice and the highest quality flooring products at competitive prices. Discover their wide range of flooring products including premium engineered timber, waterproof laminates, robust LVT, plank and tile effect vinyl, natural and bleach cleanable carpets, contemporary rugs and much more. Can’t find what you are looking for? The team at Tom Dempsey Flooring will be more than happy to try to source a specific product for you and you can also customise products like rugs that are completely bespoke to you. With a selection of leading brands including Panaget, The Twelve, Quickstep, Karndean and Brink & Campman, you can also purchase Tom Dempsey Flooring gift vouchers; the perfect gift idea this Christmas. Shop in store at their Oranmore Showroom or online at tomdempseyflooring.ie and keep up to date on social @tom_dempsey_flooring

BY DESIGN

NEW YORK

ORIOR

Ciaran McGuigan has launched Irish contemporary furniture into the heart of the design world with Orior’s latest flagship showroom in SoHo, New York.

Founded by Brian and Rosie McGuigan in 1979, Orior has remained a Newry family run business committed to using only the best purveyors and high quality materials.

For a time, the firm produced its own designs, however as the demand for custom fabrication grew, largely from high-end hospitality, they began to focus operations solely on furniture manufacturing.

In 2014, Ciaran took over as creative director at Orior, breathing in a new lease of life and vowing to put Ireland on the map for designing and making. Under his direction, he expanded on the very foundations his parents built the brand, evolving the company back from a contract business, into a luxury design studio.

Overall the Soho showroom boasts a renewed design identity while showcasing original designs by the founders. Orior’s new home is filled with custom-designed floor tiles and natural daylight from skylights, a rare luxury for NY showrooms. Several oak arches, manufactured in Ireland, section the space into individual lounge and dining areas showcasing their latest furniture debuts. New passion and ideas, utilizing plush, vibrantly coloured velvets, deep green marbles and glossy woods are infused with traditional Irish furniture making principles, with all fabrication still taking place in Newry. Other marble and stone accents in the space pay tribute to the sinuous curves and forms that are a signature of Orior’s collections.

Ciaran believes, “In the design world, a piece is often design-forward and impractical, or functional but sterile”. Orior balances form and function with the mark of impeccable craftsmanship. Orior’s creative motivation thrives on the dynamic collaboration between designers and furniture makers, with multiple generations of craftspeople, some of whom have been with the brand since its founding, providing expertise. Timeless design and long-lasting comfort are at the heart of everything they do. Also on display in the Orior showroom are select fabrics and womenswear from the talented textile designer Katie Ann McGuigan, daughter of the McGuigan family. Born in Ireland, Katie Ann McGuigan moved to London, where she graduated from the University of Westminster Fashion Design Womenswear course in spring 2016. She was awarded the Fashion Scout Merit Award after her

Irish design is respected and revered the world over for its innovation and craftsmanship. CONOR BIGGINS shares insight into two Irish companies who are raising the bar in interior design.

Image credit: Simon Watson

first print heavy collection debut and continued on to win the Mittlemoda Absolute Prize in 2017. McGuigan gained experience working for McQ in London and Marc Jacobs in New York City. Since then, she started her own design firm, producing high-end women's fashion, rugs, fabrics and wallpapers.

CAROL EGAN

Carol Egan is an award-winning New York based designer with an established profile that began with the setting up of her firm, Carol Egan Interiors, in the early 2000s.

Born in Dublin, Egan graduated from University College Dublin and Parsons School of Design in New York City. Over twenty years in practice, she has gained an established list of clientele built on successful collaborations.

In promoting the handmade, the overlooked, and the artisan heritages of the past, Egan adopts both the value and care of craftwork in a new–material–age. Her unique approach distinguishes her practice in both interior and furniture design. Egan’s work has regularly featured in major journals such as Architectural Digest, Elle Decor, Wallpaper, Vogue and The New York Times.

In Carol’s furniture, an emphasis is placed on unique form and structure, coaxing minimal sensibilities to the fore. These works are produced using 3D modelling software and then crafted and hand finished using traditional woodworking or lost wax bronze casting techniques. This can be seen in the Double Emperor wall shelf, crafted in bronze and wood through a lot of hand labour. Its recognisable chamfered edges and curved forms draw from the wing formation of dragonflies.

In 2010, Egan produced her inaugural furniture line, which is now represented in Europe by Galerie BSL, in New York City by Maison Gerard and in Los Angeles by Hostler Burrows.

In these designs, she experimented with different materials, such as bronze, marble and wood, producing wall shelves, freestanding consoles, benches, coffee tables, mirrors and chairs. From these sculptural furniture pieces came her iconic style, a timeless elegance which can often be recognized by her signature twisted X-shape design. All these works are produced using 3D modelling software and then crafted and hand finished using traditional woodworking or lost wax bronze casting techniques. In 2015 she received a Special Mention for Best Contemporary Piece, attributed to her by the PAD London jury for her Freestanding console and X benches.

Her latest creation, the Zephyr Chair, was inspired by power structures found in nature and designed by blending digital technology with fine traditional craftsmanship. The Zephyr chair further develops the cantilever and cylindrical forms found in other works by Egan.

“As a designer, I’m interested in digital technology. I am fascinated by the intersection of craft with technology. What intrigues me is using the technology to manipulate material into unexpected and unexplained unique forms.”

Carol Egan

Conor Biggins is a graduate of the University of Limerick and works for the multidisciplinary brand Objective Gallery in New York. www.conorbiggins.com

the

Green Life

We started our farm back in 2006, I remember how difficult it was, but I was lucky I had help. My dad, at the time, was 65. He was a powerhouse. He was there every day helping with digging, strimming, weeding, planting, and packing boxes. 16 years on, and my dad may not be doing too much digging, but he still handles a strimmer pretty well and keeps very active with his early morning walks and helping out with endless other projects.

Ihope that when I am his age, I too can be as active and agile and in such good health as he is now. But my dad was not always like this; he was unhealthy, used to smoke and eat all the wrong things, did no exercise, and had his first heart attack at the age of 56. I guess there is nothing like a good scare to effect change; in his case, he made many positive and farreaching changes. My dad said to my vegan wife, Jenny, when she first came back from the UK with me 25 years ago: “Would you not try the soup, Jenny? It is mainly vegetables but made from the bones of a chicken.” Now you can find him eating my mother's vegan Dahl and more vegetables than all the rest of us and drinking green juices every day. It is a transformation that is nothing short of amazing. I think that we can all choose to treat our bodies and our minds well, and if we do, they will serve us better in the years and decades to come.

There is no reason why as we age, and let’s be truthful here, nobody really likes to think about ageing, and yet it is as inevitable as taxes,that we cannot age well and with grace.

In the words of Jim Rohn, “Whatever you do, do it

with style”. It’s going to happen anyway, so we may as well accept it and do it well. Some days if I think of my age, I feel deeply shocked. How did I end up being 48? Where did the time go?

As we head into the autumn season, it is a good time to reflect a little, take stock and think a bit more long-term. Reflection can often inform our choices differently, and we may find that we end up making better decisions. We may decide a daily walk or run is right for us, or eat less meat, or avoid over processed food. We may get out in nature or start open water swimming. Incidentally, this has kept my mum in great health, and she has been doing it now for nearly 20 years. Our choices now, of course, will affect us later in life. Hard to see, but they will, so the question is, what will you do? How will you choose? But whatever you do, do something.

For me, I am going now to have a walk around the farm, to check the crops, listen to the birds, breath in the fresh air and generally, be thankful for this amazing life I have been given.

Until next time, take care.

Kenneth

WORDS BY KENNETH KEAVEY greenearthorganics.ie

Kenneth Keavey and his wife Jenny started Green Earth Organics box delivery scheme in 2006. Farming on 40 acres of organically certified land with another 10 acres split between a wild life biodiversity area, native woodland forestry (3000 trees) and red clover/grassland, Kenneth is the 3rd generation of his family to farm these lands.

Rachel & Ronan Ward

were recently married in Castlerea Church, followed by a reception in the Raheen Woods Hotel.

Mens Suits: Suit Republic

Brides Dress: Bella Donna

Bridesmaids: Folkster

Bridal Accessories: JJs House and Pandora

Flowers: Kats Flowers, Ballinlough

Photographer and Videographer: Whitethorn Media

Church Music: Jenny O’Brien

Hairstylist: Infinity, Castlerea

Makeup Artist: House of Beauty, Castlerea

Band / Dj: Renovator

Aishling Scanlon & Rebecca Doyle

were recently married at The Clayton Hotel, Galway.

Aishling’s Dress: Belladonna Bridal, Galway

Rebecca’s dress: ASOS Bridal Collection

Bridesmaids: Wed2Be, Drumcondra, Dublin

Cake: Simply Divine Cakes, Galway.

Flowers: Keanes Florist with Niamh, Terryland, Galway

Photographer: Mike Mulcaire

Videographer: Michael Carty

BROWN THOMAS GALWAY AUTUMN/WINTER LAUNCH 2022

Brown Thomas Galway unveiled its gorgeous new Autumn Winter 2022 designer collections in the stunning surroundings of Glenlo Abbey Hotel.

Photos by Sean Lydon

Sinead Cassidy Máire McCarthy and Karen Jones

Jennifer Wrynne

Orla Sheridan and Sarah Battle

Aoife Kavanagh and Aine Killilea

Lucy Deely and Sarah Donoghue

Dearbhla McCrossan and Patricia McCrossan

Mandy Maher and Marilyn Gallagher

Brid McGlacken and Suzanne Hynes

Una Conway

Grainne Mullins and Pam Richardson

Mary and Sarah Galvin

Phyllis MacNamara and Angela Ciuche

NETWORK IRELAND NATIONAL CONFERENCE AND AWARDS

took place in The Salthill Hotel, Galway. On the night, eight Network Ireland Businesswomen of the Year 2022 awards were bestowed as well as the Tricia Murphy Memorial Award, which went to local Galway women Siobhan Carroll, ACT for Meningitis and Dr Suzanne McClean, Rosabel’s Rooms for their tireless work with both charities.

Photos by Clare Frances @cfphotographer

Marian Finnegan, Vicki O’Toole, Noreen McKenzie and Eoin McGee

Network Presidents Emily Mahon, Valerie O’Sullivan, Carmel Seery, Noreen McKenzie, Maria Desmond, Treasa Hanniffy, Lesa Malone, Margaret Julian and Emma Wilson Sir Steven Wilkinson

Mandy Maher and Noreen McKenzie Treasa Hanniffy

Vanessa Creaven and Noreen McKenzie

Mary Kennedy, Patricia McCrossan, Noreen McKenzie and Erin Grant.

Siobhan Carroll, ACT for Meningitis and Dr Suzanne McClean, Rosabel’s Rooms with Noreen McKenzie

Faith Fahy, Kirsten Harrington, Lorraine Scully and Anna Holland

Asumpta Gallagher, Sandra Looney, Noreen McKenzie, Síne Dunne, Tanya Ryan Front Row; Lorraine Burnell, Yvonne Comer, Aoife Behan and Ellen Tuffy

Deirdre Martin, Jeanette Delahunty, Valerie O’Sullivan, Anne Healy, Lucy Gernon and Linda Codoul

Rebecca Fisher and Niamh Larmon

Anne Healy, Valerie O’Sullivan and Emer O’ Keeffe

Orla McAndrew, Helen Wycherley, Gillian Hennessy, Ciara Wilson and Marguerite O’Sullivan

EMPOWER II

Female founders celebrating the EMPOWER II closing event at the Salthill Hotel, Galway

Helen Nolan, Denise Rocks, Asumpta Gallagher, Rita Oates, Suzanne Carney and Emer Flannery

Back Row: Nadine McCarthy, Maria Staunton, Susan Hayes Culleton, Ailbhe Keane and Brian Reynolds. Front Row: Declan Droney, Isabel Keane and Sandra Divilly Nolan Sandra Divilly Nolan, Catherine O’Grady Power, Maria Staunton and Niamh Ryle

Back row: left to right: Sandra Divilly Nolan, Jennifer Dempsey, Aisling Kelly Hunter, Melissa Walsh and Maura Fahy. Front row: left to right: Sinéad Carroll, Janine Van Someren, Edel McWeeney Moran and Cepta Mahon

LISA’S HEALTH AND BEAUTY 10TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS

Lisa’s Health and Beauty celebrated its 10th Birthday with an afternoon tea party with staff, family and customers.

Andrea Gill, Lisa O’Flynn and Emma Walsh

Olga, Ciara and Noreen Culhan

Geraldine Conneelly, Anne Durnan, Marie Hayes, Sandra Madden and Emma Walsh

Lisa O’ Fynn and Mary Surlis

Padraig Jack

Tell us about growing up on the Aran islands: It was a great place to grow up, I think being a growing tourist destination meant we would meet people from all over the world and also being in the heart of the Gaeltacht meant I spoke Irish and this has been a big part of my life. I come from a musical family, my brother Cathal used to play in pubs in Aran with my dad, and my cousins and uncles also played; this was a great way for me to pick up music, and I had plenty of teachers around me.

Ba áit iontach é le fás suas ceapim, mar gheall gur áit é a bhí go leor turaseoirí ag teacht, chas mé le daoine difríocht as meascán tíortha éagsúla agus mar gheall go raibh muid ag lár an Ghaeltacht phioc mé suas Gaeilge agus is páirt mór é sin do me saol. Tagam as clann ceolmhar, bhíodh mo deartháir Cathal ag casadh ceol le mo athair agus bhí mo chuid col ceathracha agus uncail ag casadh ceol so bhí neart múinteóir agam.

Where do you find inspiration for your songs? I’m inspired by my life experiences and observations and by great songs and songwriters. I love the idea of crafting a song lyrically and combining that with melody, rhythm, soundscapes etc. I put a high value on the lyrics of my songs, and while I love the different aspects of playing music - being a singer, a performer, and a musician, I love songwriting. I take it very seriously and try to maintain a high level of quality control. Whether that works or not, I don’t know!

Who are your biggest musical influences? Growing up, I listened to a lot of Queen, Elton John, Enya, George Michael, and The Eagles. I then discovered James Taylor, Carole King, Van the Man, The Waterboys, Sting, Steve Winwood and of course, the Irish artists like Shane McGowan, Sinead O Connor U2 and Damien Dempsey. I love Villagers, James Vincent McMorrow, The War and Treaty, and Foy Vance.

Have you found the music industry in Ireland to be a supportive one? Yes, for sure, I think the Irish recognize we have a particular faculty for creating art and music, be it the Celtic or Gaelic genes in us, and this became more realized during Covid. I developed

my songwriting a lot by going to open mics and gigs and meeting like-minded people, I didn’t know it immediately, but I was joining a community of which I am still a part of.

Do you have any pre or post performance traditions or rituals? I always do my voice warm-up before singing, my brother is a voice coach at Galway Voice Studio, and he has worked out a good vocal warm up for me to listen to on my phone before singing, so I’d be backstage going up and down the keys singing ‘la la la, ga ga ga’ etc.

What has been the highlight of your career so far? My song ‘Making Sand’ being top of the RTE Airplay Chart for four weeks in a row this summer. I didn’t expect that. Honourable mentions for playing to sold out crowds in Vicar Street and Iveagh Gardens supporting Damien Dempsey!

Describe a perfect day in Galway: Walking up and down Shop St in the afternoon with Ciara and Éala (my partner and baby daughter), bumping into people we know, and having chats! Then maybe a slice of pizza in Pizza Napoli and a jam on the sparch, with a can or two!

What’s next for Padraig Jack? I’ll be touring the UK in October and November with Miles Hunt of The Wonder Stuff, and I will return to Wales in January for a tour after touring this summer. I hope to get some songs written over the winter too!

Beidh mé ar camchuairt sa bhreatain in mí Deireadh

Fómhar agus Samhain le Miles Hunt as The Wonder Stuff agus beidh mé ag dul go dtí an Bhreatain Beag I mí Éanair. Tá súil agam cúpla amhráin a scríobh I rith an geimhreadh freisin!