Wish List: Chill out time

A book, a window seat and an hour of peace — take time out with Esther N McCarthy’s picks this week. 

* What’s more romantic than cuddling up with a tapestry of Ireland around you and your beau? Loominations.ie is a Cork-based gift company that takes inspiration from our landscape and heritage. Irish icons and landmarks are woven into full-colour cotton tapestry throw blankets. €149 with free shipping in Ireland.

* This 9ct gold-plated sterling silver pendant necklace from Argos is from the Wishes collection and there are lots of other pieces to go along with it, if you want to gift a full set. This is €55.49 from www.argos.ie

* Create some special ambience with the perfect candle. This is a small, but mighty, orange and natural hand-rolled beeswax candle, about 5cm x 5cm. Made in Ireland and available at selected stockists and from www.mindfulproductivity.net

* The good folk down in Clonakilty at Little Green Dot have this cute heart-covered blanket. Sure, it’s technically for babies, but wouldn’t this be perfect for a romantic picnic? Only without the babies, obviously. €40 from www.littlegreendot.ie

* This beautiful bone china dipping bowl is only made for two. Choose wisely who to share it with. Although it’s fine porcelain, the moulding process has made it pretty much unbreakable. If only we could say the same about our hearts. The lads at www.manodesign.at do ship to Ireland.

* Working with Irish materials and Irish craftsmen the lads at Mystones have created a way of bringing life to ancient stone. Modern laser engraving techniques work with the natural minerals in the stone. The ‘grá’ one would be a sweet present for Valentine’s Day. Or if you’d like something more personal, they can customise a stone for you. Prices start at €4.99 from www.mystones.ie

* Beware, this Madagascar Cuddler Sofa might unleash the tiger in you and your honey bunny. I’m digging the retro design, just enough room for two. €1,498 from DFS in Mahon Point, Cork, or online at www.dfs.co.uk