Printed Skull Ink

 I love to see new local brands take their flight during these uncertain times. Local Fermanagh women, did just that. “Mammy Mia”, founder Leanna is a textiles designer who creates unique handmade designs, from her lovely home in Co.Fermanagh. The name came from her beautiful one year old daughter, who is called “Mia”. Mia was her inspiration to work from home, so there they reside together “Mammy&Mia”.  Mammy Mia was created during the first lockdown 2020. It all started when Leanna was on maternity leave and just wanted to get back to the textile industry. She started making face masks and some quirky outfits for her daughter to wear and from there her brand blossomed. Mammy Mia now specialises in capes, bibs and bonnets for babies and toddlers. She also offers a custom made service, where you can have some unique one off pieces made. Currently Mammy Mia is available to purchase online via her Facebook page and Etsy page. Locally she has been selling her designs at local...

Winter is here, so why not start updating your Winter wardrobe with something new and exciting. I’m loving the faux fur coats and pleated leather skirts. The belted jacket trend is a must have this season, as its extremely versatile. Check is another key trend. Whether you inject the check trend into your look, with a cape or a tailored pair of trousers. Be sure to look super chic. Show stopping puffy dresses and jackets make their debut. Tassels have also made their way back, giving us that edgy feel. Oversized collars are very popular. The famous Christmas jumper is back. Team yours with a pair of leather look leggings and some edgy ankle boots. Let’s not forget about the party season. I’m like a magpie, sequin and glittery pieces are essential. Shine bright from head to toe in sequins. If your too shy to embrace this trend, then add some glitter in the form of a statement necklace or bag. Don’t forget accessories; bobble hats, gold statement jewellery, ankle boots, scarves, printed ...

Let's face it, 2020 has been a bad year for most. Due to job losses and businesses having to close, not only once but twice. Many people don't have the funds for a massive Christmas, unlike previous years. This year is no different for me. I love myself a good bargain and I like to be money wise. I say buy what you can afford, why stress about something that is materialistic. I highly recommend that you also shop locally, if it's possible. I have compiled some of my favourite local gifts which are not only high quality products, but also very affordable. Christmas is about showing people we love, that we care. So take it easy, buy what you can afford and if you can't afford anything. Love is free. Erne Larder  £12.00 Three jar sleeve  www.ernelarder.com  Peaches and Penny £18.00 Hand wash and lotion set www.peachesandpenny.com WoodFolk rainbow bauble  £6.50 Available from Osborne&Co Enniskillen or shop online  www.osbournesenniskillen.com Boatyard gin infuse...

So 2020 has been a weird and awful year for many of us. Local businesses having to close every time the covid rate rapidly increases. Nursing homes and hospitals having to stop all contact with the outside world. Anxious and terrified young people and parents who had to home school. Mothers having to have their babies in the hospital, without the loving support from their partners after the birth. Children having to wave at their friends from a far. I found it particularly hard watching my daughter struggle with the absence of her peers. Whilst covid restrictions and lockdown is still very real. We have to try to make the most out of life. After all what did our ancestors do? I also feel that we should support small local businesses . I feel very sorry for our local businesses. I can’t even begin to imagine the heartache their feeling! So I’ve decided that, at least a few times a week to eat out and shop locally. I have also bought a majority of my Christmas shopping from local busines...