"It takes time and confidence to come up with your own vision, but your eyes must be wide open enough to see how it could be realised commercially," says jewellery designer Martina Hamilton.

The image on the left is an image of Carol’s design, the image on the right is the top currently stocked in Penneys.

Esther N McCarthy melts over all these lovely Irish candles. Perfect for setting the scene for cosy autumn evenings at home.

Owls have been a staple theme for interiors for a while now and why not? They’re just so cute. 

The products that we’re liking this week.

STARBUCKS and Nando’s are coming to Cork City’s Emmet Place — and, now, an investment property linked to long-time developer/investor, Robin Power, and which is let to two food operators, is for sale there, priced at €1.2m.

HANDY CRAFT: The popular Alex & Ani range has a charm to suit any gift occasion. 

Pippa O’Connor is the ambassador for the SMA Know-How Pregnancy and Baby Fair 2014, which takes place in the RDS on August 30 and 31.

This Father’s Day, kit your Dad out with everything he needs for a summer of football.

A little stress is a good thing. It has the power to motivate and stimulate us, pushing us to do better but becoming too stressed, particularly during high pressure periods like exam time, can negatively affect our performance.

The Kilkenny Shop is home to Ireland’s largest collection of Irish designers, with a range of quirky keepsakes and quality designs, perfect for last-minute present-hunting.

Step away from tack, writes Kya deLongchamps, and embrace all things folk for a fairytale Christmas.

Hot and sunny, bright and breezy, chic and cosy — it’s all here this week in Esther N McCarthy’s shopping basket.

Inspiration

The success of the Kilkenny Group is due to its commitment and focus on Irish designers and brands, according to Marian O’Gorman, the company’s chief executive.

Small enough for cabin baggage; big enough for a long weekend.