Aoibhne Hogan, originally from Sandymount is mother to Chloe, aged 5 and Remy aged 2. Aoibhne designed a card to send to family and friends when Chloe was born. When her friends received the cards they began asking Aoibhne to do theirs. She was happy to do this and gradually the idea of starting her own business designing cards emerged.

Aoibhne is a graduate from Dun Laoghaire College of Art and Design and subsequently spent a few years working in Taiwain teaching Art and English. When she started her business she called it Formosa Designs as this means ‘beautiful island’ in Taiwan. Aoibhne is now sucessfully designing and making greeting cards for all occasions and events from birth announcements, christening cards, birthdays, thank-you cards and more. All these designs can be found in well-known card galleries, such as Swalk, Meadows & Byrne, gift, craft and bookshops around Ireland.

The cards Aoibhne produces are unique with fresh, clean lines and a funky, fun look. They are simple and yet classic.

Recently Aoibhne has gone on to set up an on-line business to sell greeting cards that are specific and personalised to the needs of each client. Aoibhne will personalise any event, be it invitations for birthdays, christenings or weddings. She is able to do a collage for Hen parties, once the bridesmaids give her the photos of the bride-to-be.

Photographs of babies can be incorporated into her christening invitations to give that very special personal touch. Her website (www.formosadesign.com) gives examples of her work and is currently being upgraded. For the time being, you can ring her on 087 264 0004 or email at greetings@formosadesign.com.