Fionnuala began her working career during the 1960's and worked as a hairstylist in Belfast, England and Canada for some years. Her interest in style and glamour encourage her involvement in local operatic and drama groups both in Canada and in Ireland. She has not only put her hand naturally to preparing the hair styles of the actors but she also used her sewing/stitching ability in the making of costumes and headwear.

She returned to N. Ireland at the beginning of the 70's, got married and became a full time mother to her three sons. As the children grew and became more independent, Fionnuala sought ways of improving her natural ability. She completed her City and Guilds in Art, Design and Patchwork and became a committed member of the N. Ireland Patchwork and Embroidery Guild. She found the latter a great source of inspiration and beneficial environment for sharpening her skills.

After teaching patchwork and craft classes for a number of years and exhibiting her work, she decided to try a new form of textile/feather expression - Headwear. Having spent some time attending courses and studying the research on millinery, it became obvious to her that the skills she had acquired along her creative road, going right back to her early years as a hair stylist could all be combined to producing creative and unique headwear. So in a sense she has gone full circle, back again to dressing hair. In addition to designing unique styles would be an aim to customize the headwear, to compliment all types of outfits worn for all kinds of special occasions.

Since the new change in direction, Fionnuala, continuing to work under the Fion E Design label has gone from strength to strength. Business is extremely brisk and much of this so far has been generated by word of mouth. Pride is taken during the consultation period of listening carefully to your specific needs and due consideration is given to the character of the occasion being attended. The client's stature and eventual hair style are taken into account while designing the headpiece. The colours, shape and patterns within the client's outfit are carefully examined as well as the other accessories of the outfit eg. handbag, shoes. Through a number of pre-fittings and consultation sessions, Fionnuala ensures that the client is completely sure of what they want so that the final headpiece fits the occasion, the person and the outfit perfectly...