In the beginning...

Marian started her venture over 14 years ago, after completing her saddlery apprenticeship with The Society of Master Saddlers, she is now one of the few women Qualified saddlers in Ireland.  

She proceeded to establish her own business, honing a robust skill set in the mending and restoration of antique items, crafting custom-made bridles, harnesses, saddles, and other leather goods, such as scabbards for locally crafted movie replica swords. This experience cultivated her expert craftsmanship, prompting her to expand her portfolio.

At Solas, a passion for Celtic Mythology and the enchanting Irish landscape inspires our creations. This influence is evident in the color palettes and names of our products.

Laser technology has expanded the possibilities for honoring Celtic and other Indigenous leather artworks, maintaining a connection to the land and the inspiration it provides for wearable art.

The concept of crafting specialized dog products stemmed from Marian's enduring passion and love for man's best friend. She noticed that the collars available in pet shops did not match the high-quality leather or the superior hand-stitched craftsmanship found in saddlery goods. Believing it worthwhile to apply her bridle-making expertise, Marian set out to create distinctive, durable accessories for dogs.

Marian grew up in the Mourne Mountains on a farm surrounded by horses, sheep & of course dogs. She takes her own dog Tilly, a very intelligent but cheeky Shetland Sheepdog to Obedience training & attends dog shows regularly, they even made it to Crufts!

She started off sharing her work with family & friends who quote 'they've had their collar/lead for nearly 10 years now!' This gave Marian a boost to go out and start sharing her work with the world.

    Marian only ever wants the best for her customers and their dogs.

She conducted thorough research and sourced the best local materials, such as English leather and Scottish Tweed. Employing her traditional saddlery skills, she hand-cuts from the full hide and hand-stitches, which secures the materials together, rendering each of her products both durable and distinctive.

Thanks for reading ;)