Midtown Makers Gift Shop - BLOG

I thrive on keeping busy so after a 3am to 11am start in my full-time job at Belfast International Airport I go home nap for a bit and then make chutneys, salsas & preserves in the heart of our home.

A fresh season of support, inspiration and networking is on offer for female entrepreneurs across Mid and East Antrim, with the launch of the latest Enterprising Women programme. The autumn/winter schedule has been shaped directly by feedback from members of the network, with a programme designed to meet women where they are on their business journey – whether they are starting out, growing an established business or looking to build new connections.

Midtown Makers Gift Shop Needs Your Vote… Click link below, select Best Generalist Retailer and type Midtown Makers Gift Shop https://www.belfastlive.co.uk/HSH Voting is now officially open for the Retail NI High Street Heroes 2026 awards, and they are inviting customers across Northern Ireland to help spread the word. No judges. No panels. Just the public's vote.

I remember, when my kids were young, they always wanted me to put them to bed, because I was better at reading and telling them stories, with the different voices of the characters. Either reading or a made-up story, was looked forward to with a certain joy, when I created a world for them, that they enjoyed and so this week, as my eldest son’s Birthday falls, I decided that why not make it Book Week, he always a good story. So here in Midtown Makers it’s Book Week.

Celebrate August Craft Month and Ballymena's Creative Heritage with a Captivating Showcase of Traditional Crafts. As Ballymena town marks its 400th anniversary, the community is invited to join in a spectacular celebration of its rich history and cultural heritage through the art of traditional craftsmanship at Midtown Makers Gift Shop. On Thursday 20th August, from 6pm, this special event aims to highlight the skills, artistry, and creativity that have been passed down throu

My book Ralphie’s Day of Dress Up, focuses on imagination, positivity, and wonder. The story shows young readers that even when things do not go to plan, like Ralphie’s day, you can still choose to have fun and make the best of the situation. My next book featuring Susie teaches readers not to rush, as rushing can lead to mistakes. Instead, it encourages children to slow down, focus carefully, and not let adversity bring them down, but to face challenges with confidence.

On Saturday, 23rd May, Ballymena marked it's 400 year anniversary of the historic 1626 Royal Charter granted by King Charles I to the Adair family. The event, organised by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, brought together people from all walks of life to honour the town’s heritage and look forward to its future. Among the many groups participating were Ballymena Business Centre / Midtown Makers team.

The year 2025 was exceptional for Midtown Makers Gift Shop. We hosted a range of creative workshops, supported emerging and small local businesses, and revamped both the shop and our website. Additionally, we became the Visitor Information Hub for Ballymena. It was an eventful year, and we want to express our gratitude to all our members, customers, and supporters for keeping Midtown Makers a lively and creative spot in Ballymena.

Welcome to Richard from Grain & Glory, who is trading here for 2 months on our Retail Ready Programme. "Hi, I'm Richard Fleck, Over the...

Ten years ago, the idea emerged to open a shop in Ballymena to accommodate growing art and crafts businesses.