The Guildhall Craft Fair returns to the city this weekend and will feature a number of exciting new local craft designers and artists who are making their debut at the biggest event of its kind in Northern Ireland.
One of the debutant exhibitors will be Rachel Gallagher’s Nómada brand whose unique range of handcrafted jewellery and Donegal Tweed bags are inspired by the rugged natural landscapes and colours of the North West.
“I’m really looking forward to this market because it will be my first time exhibiting in The Guildhall and it feels really special as a Derry Girl to be involved,” she admits.
“It’s such a beautiful backdrop and I think it will have a really nice atmosphere for all the crafters and shoppers.
“I can’t wait to meet new people and hopefully see some familiar faces.”
Although the inspiration for Rachel’s collections are local, her Nómada journey began on the other side of the Atlantic while on a working visa in Canada.
“My background has always been creative, my main subject at school was always art and I went on to study Textile, Art and Design in Belfast,” she recalls.
“A few years after graduating I moved to Canada for a couple of years, while I was there I worked at a couple of inspiring, creative jobs – one in textiles for interiors and another in the craft yarn industry.
“I was able to observe how small, creative businesses thrived because they were always my favourite places to shop and explore.
“In my spare time, I would be creating bags and jewellery, mainly as a hobby but then interest grew.”
Her return to Ireland to work full time and then the birth of her daughter Nóra led to her decision to take the plunge of turning her pastime into a sustainable business.
She has since launched the brand’s online store and has exciting ambitions to open her own premises in the future.
“My whole perspective and outlook changed and I decided not to return to my full time job and focus on growing Nómada, not looking at it as my ‘hobby’ anymore but my actual job.
“Over the last year, we have put a lot of focus on growing the brand, creating a website and attending more markets and pop ups.
“Seeing my designs worn is a real highlight, a lot of pieces appeal to brides, so it’s really special seeing those images from such an important day in someone’s life.
“Some day I would admire having a more permanent space – a space where customers can visit and feel inspired,” she added.
To view Rachels full range of products or order online visit https://nomadabyrachel.com/ or follow Nómada on facebook and Instagram.
The Guildhall Craft Fair returns on Friday 22nd to Sunday 24th November, and will showcase an exquisite range of bespoke craft items created by craft design-makers and artisan food producers throughout Ireland.
For opening hours and full details of the traders taking part visit: derrystrabane.com/craftfair
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