Presents from Provence stall at Belfast Christmas Market
Presents from Provence stall at Belfast Christmas Market
Our Diaspora

Bringing Provence to Belfast

Caroline and Paddy's Festive Adventure

In 2003, Caroline and Paddy made a life-changing decision to leave their Northern Irish roots behind and embark on an adventure in France. Inspired by Caroline's childhood summers spent in Provence, where her father, a French teacher, had a holiday home, the couple embraced the opportunity to explore a new way of life.

Now living at the foot of Mont Ventoux in a picturesque village of just 280 people, they’ve built a unique life blending the best of French and Northern Irish culture. Paddy manages a juice bar during France's bustling tourist season, while Caroline works full-time with a truffle company. Yet, as winter arrives, their focus shifts to a cherished annual tradition: bringing the magic of Provence to the Belfast Christmas Market.

Paddy, Caroline and girls on their terrace in Provence
Paddy, Caroline and girls on their terrace in Provence

Presents from Provence

For the past 18 years, Caroline and Paddy have been staples of the market with their stall, Presents from Provence. Showcasing the best of their adopted home, they offer a delightful selection of goods including Savon de Marseille soaps, organic lavender oils, and even honey produced by Paddy’s own bees. Everything is lovingly curated, packaged in gift bags, and designed to share a piece of their Provençal life with Northern Irish customers.

“It’s fantastic to see the market growing and the same customers come back every year. We have a lot of repeat trade which is lovely. Paddy always makes effort to talk in his French accent and then slips straight back into his North Belfast accent! We love being around Northern Irish people and what I’ve noticed the last few years is the diversity of the population and that makes me so happy to see.

We love connecting with people and seeing familiar faces return each year. It’s not just about selling; it’s about sharing the story of where we live and the products we love.

A Love for Home

Though they've embraced life in France, their Northern Irish roots run deep. Paddy returns to Belfast every November to set up their stall, while Caroline joins him later to soak in the festive spirit. “There’s nothing like coming home—the accent, the humour, the people. It’s so warm and familiar.

I love that feeling of coming home! I just love getting the bus up from Dublin to Belfast – hearing the accent – ‘wee this’ being called ‘wee love’. My children just adore coming here. They say everyone is so lovely and friendly, everywhere they go – in a shop, on a bus, a random person on the street will talk to you. I miss that. That and the humour!

And Caroline never misses a chance to stock up on Tayto crisps, Punjana tea, and Cadbury’s chocolate—essentials for a true taste of home!

Keeping Traditions Alive

At Christmas, Caroline and Paddy bring a mix of traditions from both countries. While their French village celebrates Christmas Eve with seafood platters, Christmas Day at their home is all about Northern Irish traditions—turkey, ham, brussel sprouts, and all the trimmings.

Their love for both cultures shines in every aspect of their life, from organising St. Patrick’s Day events in their village to introducing friends to the beauty of Northern Ireland.

In Marseille to watch the Six Nations Rugby
In Marseille to watch the Six Nations Rugby

Advice for Aspiring Expats

Reflecting on their journey, Caroline offers words of wisdom for those considering a move abroad: “You need to love the place, the language, and the lifestyle. It’s not the same as a holiday—you have to integrate and embrace it fully.”

The Magic of the Belfast Christmas Market

For Caroline and Paddy, the Belfast Christmas Market is more than a business opportunity—it’s a celebration of home, connection, and community. “We love being part of the Christmas vibe, seeing the diversity of the city, and enjoying the craic with everyone. It’s a special time of year, and we’re so grateful to be part of it.”

 

Whether you’re a local or part of the diaspora, be sure to visit Presents from Provence at the market and experience a little slice of France with a Northern Irish heart.

Honey made by Paddy
Homemade honey from Paddy's bees

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