These hotels are bringing their gift shops to the next level

Instead of the requisite trinkets that often fill hotel gift shops, these next generation gift shops at hotels are filled with locally made pieces that are of-the-place, and things you would actually seek out.

Dromoland Castle’s new Charlotte & Co. boutique, Ireland

Dromoland Castle just opened Charlotte & Co on May 2, a boutique celebrating Irish artisans and giving visitors a one-stop shop to pick up an authentic, Irish-made item to remember their trip. The boutique features a collection of Irish contemporary design comprising chunky, hand knit Colin Burke sweaters that reimagine traditional motifs; homewares by KOPPER KREATION made with reclaimed copper, steel, and brass; handmade perfumes made in and inspired by The Burren national park from Burren Perfumery; super chic freeform architectural modeling kits from ARCKIT (think Lego goes high design); and several other proudly Irish makers. While only in-person right now, the shop will go online (and will ship internationally) starting in June 2022.

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The Fife Arms’ Online Shop, Scotland

The Fife Arms plays an integral part of the creative ecology of the Scottish Highlands, giving employment and sales opportunities to local artisans and makers. For example, the hotel just commissioned a collection of bespoke seasonal products from Aberdeenshire-based artisans, including basket-maker Helen Jackson. In addition to creating products sold in the hotel’s on-site and online shop, these artisans also lead hands-on workshops for guests. Araminta Campbell, a weaver from Aberdeenshire, created the custom tweed and tartan which is used across the interiors, staff uniforms, and retail products (cashmere blankets, dog coats, picnic baskets, etc.) All of her textiles are handwoven in her own studio, using local materials, traditional skills and expert craftsmanship. Weaving has been practiced in Scotland for centuries and is an important part of the culture.

andBeyond Vira Vira, Chile

The gift shop at andBeyond Vira Vira is filled with locally made items like handmade ceramics and blankets and wall hangings made by a local Mapuche weaver, but the most popular item is a footstool that looks like a little sheep. They sell several of them every week and ship them home for guests. All of the artisans are local, and the money goes right back into the communities.

UXUA Casa Hotel & Spa, Brazil

The UXUA DAS collection at UXUA in Trancoso, Brazil goes far beyond the requisite gift shop. While there are ready-to-wear items such as handwoven kaftans and home goods like pillows and lamps, there is also an entire furniture collection with made-to-order items. Particularly popular is the U-Chair, a three-legged handmade lounge chair made of the reclaimed Brazilian hardwood braúninha.

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