Annual Fair celebrates 10th Anniversary
Under the festive glittering lights on Marine Road, The DLR Winter Fair is set to take place in County Hall, Dún Laoghaire on Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 November. Now in its 10th year, the Fair will showcase 40 talented local designers and craft workers displaying a wide range of goods from prints to ceramics, jewellery, arts and fashion.
Organised by the Local Enterprise Office, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown (LEO DLR), The DLR Winter Fair offers festive shoppers the unique chance to buy beautiful personalised gifts for loved ones or even a special treat for themselves.
The Fair has built a strong following since it first opened its doors in 2005 and has become an eagerly awaited yearly event. Over 30,000 shoppers have purchased luxury craft goods from 350 exhibitors over the past decade, helping to boost the local economy over this free two-day event.
Commenting on the 10th Anniversary, An Cathaoirleach of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, Councillor Barry Saul stated "The DLR Winter Fair is a celebration of local craft, design and handmade luxuries and we are delighted to host the fair in the heart of Dún Laoghaire this year. With only five weeks to Christmas, it is the ideal opportunity to buy top quality products direct from talented, innovative craftspeople while providing a welcome boost to the local economy. We would encourage festive shoppers to join us to celebrate our 10th anniversary and the magnificent display of talent and products on offer. ”
Formerly one half of internationally-acclaimed designer label Quin and Donnelly, Liz Quin will join 15 newcomers to showcase her unique contemporary designs during the two-day showcase event.
Commenting on her first-time involvement in The DLR Winter Fair, Ms Quin said:
“I am delighted to be exhibiting at the 10th DLR Winter Fair, among very talented designers with many different skills. I have been designing women's clothing for over 30 years and have extensive experience and an intricate understanding of women and the varying female form. My passion is in beautiful fabrics both printed and woven and this season I have used unusual 3D textures, digital mono prints, and luxurious faux fur, soft alpaca/wool mix and signature jacquards, sculpting them into flattering coats, separates and dress shapes.”
Having first showcased her jewellery designs in 2005, Laragh McMonagle will once again return to the Fair to mark its 10th Anniversary.
“I have participated in The DLR Winter Fair since its inception and I am honoured to showcase my designs during its anniversary. In 2005, I was delighted to win ‘Best in Show’ at the Fair which helped launch my jewellery business. The prize included mentoring advice and promotional photography, which were incredibly valuable for my business, especially during its infancy,” said McMonagle.
“The DLR Winter Fair really kicks off my Christmas Season. It’s amazing to see how The Fair has grown in popularity over the years and there are always new and exciting products being exhibited, produced locally by talented artists, craftspeople, and entrepreneurs from the community,” she continued.
The DLR Winter Fair opens its doors from 10am to 6pm on Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 November 2015. There is no admission charge and a charity collection for MS Ireland will take place during the two-day event.
For further information visit:
www.localenterprise.ie or www.facebook.com/DLRTheWinterFair
Article Published: 17/11/2015