Image credit: Wonder Culture Events, 2009

Having blogged over the last few weeks about the launch of the 5th Cardiff Design Festival taking place in the Welsh capital this October, I thought it only right and fair that I follow suit this week with the low down on one such event that drew the crowds in this weekend…

…Saturday and Sunday saw the turn of Wonder Culture’s ‘Designer’s Market’ on this month’s ‘Design Trail’ (think Mini Milan) – a vibrant, farmer’s market style shopping showcase (but for interiors and gifts obviously!) with various Welsh brands selling everything from vintage clothing to Welsh themed crockery – staged in the newly refurbished and oh so fashionable, Chapter Art Centre in the heart of Cardiff city centre.

Image credit: Wonder Culture Events, 2009

Apart from the fact that Wales at Home had their very first ’stand’ at the event, we had plenty of time for some serious retail therapy of the most relaxing kind…ambling from stall to stall with a cup of coffee in hand, browsing and chatting to our favourite Welsh designers.

And my hot picks?
1. Welsh themed crockery courtesy of Keith Brymer Jones from Bodlon – if you ever need a stylish and personal gift to say ‘thanks’ to a generous host (I love the Brecon Gin hamper), or simply want to say ‘thinking of you’ to a special friend (who wouldn’t be touched by a pack of heart shaped Welsh cakes and stylish mug?) – then this is always my first port of call (see website for prices);

Image credit: Wonder Culture Events, 2009

2. Hand-printed tea towels from Peris & Corr add a quirky touch to any kitchen, £9;

Image credit: Wonder Culture Events, 2009

3. Limited edition cushions from Nomad & Nest, £45, and handy leather shoppers;
4. Vintage style, fabric covered from By Kirsty (a visit to her city centre studio where she is known for holding rather popular ‘micro beer festivals’ also adds to her appeal’;

Image credit: By Kirsty, 2009

5. Tactile alternatives to the ever growing trend for wall decals in the form of felted butterflies and flowers from Rachel Horrocks;
6. Mode provided plenty of ideas for essential Christmas presents with their Big Hand coat hook, £22, and Fridge Monkey,£4, (yes, I know it’s early but who could resist?);

7. And a ‘oh so pretty’ illustrated tea cup tea towel for £5 from Eak Design naturally found it’s way home with me!

Image credit: Eak Design, 2009