A Clare producer whose salmon has been served to Queen Elizabeth II and both former and current US Presidents will be showcased at Gifted Contemporary Craft and Design Fair in Dublin’s RDS from December 5-10.
‘Gifted’ celebrates the best of over 600 Irish designers and makers from fashion to jewellery and beyond.
Record-breaking crowds of over 45,000 are expected to generate more than €1m per day in sales at this year’s largest-ever six-day fair.
Almost three decades after couple Birgitta and Peter Curtin researched smoking traditions in Ireland and Sweden, the Burren Smokehouse in Lisdoonvarna now has a staff of 12 and welcomes over 40,000 people to its visitor centre every year.
“We smoke top-class organic salmon which we source in Clare Island and either cold smoke it at 35 degrees for 16 hours or fast smoke it at 85 degrees for eight hours,” said Birgitta.
“Irish salmon has ten times more Omega 3 and 6 oils and is known for its taste and quality the world over.
“Our salmon was on the menu for the state dinner for Queen Elizabeth II and has been included in the annual hamper to the White House in the US for the last three years.
“We are also stocked in London’s Harrods, Selfridges and Fortnum and Mason.”
The Burren Smokehouse join a number of local makers taking part at the event, including Seoidin from Ennis, Avokado & Co. from Shannon, Palm free Handmade Irish Soap from Killaloe and Aine from Clonlara.
Gifted is a celebration of the best Irish designers and makers – people who are truly gifted.
Formerly known as the National Crafts and Design Fair, Gifted includes top cutting-edge designers and makers in Irish fashion, ceramics and glass, jewellery, art and photography, children’s gifts and presents inspired by nature.
The event also includes a Spectacular Christmas Food Emporium featuring over 120 artisan food producers, taste-tempting visitors with the best of the season’s fare.
The growth in Ireland’s vibrant design sector means that Gifted has been expanded by an extra day to become a six-day unique Christmas shopping experience.
“Giving a Gifted gift to your loved ones this Christmas means that they will be receiving a special item straight from the maker,” said organiser Patrick O’Sullivan.
“We have the top cutting-edge designers and makers in Irish fashion, ceramics and glass, jewellery, art and photography, children’s gifts and presents inspired by nature.”
Gifted offers Ireland’s largest Christmas gift shopping experience with prices starting from as little as €5.
In addition, there will be 10% off everything at the Fair on the opening day, Tuesday, December 5.
Gifted Contemporary Craft and Design Fair takes place at the RDS Main Hall from December 5-10 from 10am each day. Full details and booking can be found at www.giftedfair.ie