Featured in the Munster Express

February has brought another lovely milestone for my small business.

I was delighted to be featured in the Munster Express newspaper on Tuesday 3rd February 2026. The article appeared on page 11 and highlighted the journey of my Paper Doll Books as well as my experience at Showcase Ireland 2026.

The feature includes news that Carmel Grant Designs was named a finalist in the Business of Crafts Awards at Showcase Ireland. Being shortlisted for this award was a huge honour and one of the highlights of exhibiting at Ireland's largest trade show for craft and design.

As a Waterford-based designer, it means so much to receive support from local media and to have the opportunity to share the story behind the Paper Doll Books with a wider audience. The article looked at how the Paper Doll Books began during the Covid lockdowns and how they have grown into an award-winning collection enjoyed by children and adults alike.

Showcase Ireland was an incredible experience, and I was delighted by the positive response from visitors, buyers and fellow exhibitors. To have that success recognised in the Munster Express made the experience even more special.

I would like to thank the Munster Express for taking the time to feature my business and for helping to share the story of the Paper Doll Books. Support like this makes a real difference to small creative businesses and is always greatly appreciated.

It has been an exciting start to 2026, from exhibiting at Showcase Ireland and being named a finalist in the Business of Crafts Awards to receiving coverage in both magazines and newspapers. Moments like these are wonderful reminders of how far the Paper Doll Books have come, and they encourage me to keep creating new designs and growing the business.

Thank you to everyone who has supported my small business along the way. Your encouragement means the world.