To many April 29 meant a special day off work with street parties and other festivities to celebrate the Royal Wedding.  To one Northern Ireland man it meant making a mark in history, as Ian Hawthorne was asked to create a box to commission for Prince William and Kate Middleton, the future King and Queen of England. 

In Ian’s profession as a box maker, this is as good as a Royal Seal of Approval of his craftsmanship and will no doubt increase awareness and interest in his boxes from Royal fans and many others.

An International company approached Ian with their requirements for a bespoke wooden box after viewing images on the website. 

“We are delighted to have the opportunity to create this commemorative gift box and wish the happy couple all the very best in their future lives together.” said Ian, who works from his studio in Newtownabbey.

The box is handmade from native Sycamore wood with matching trays and the Royal Monogram is added to the lid using fine marquetry from Aryma Ltd, England.  Ian’s details are included in a congratulations card being added to the inside.

Ian creates bespoke boxes to commission for businesses and private individuals throughout the world.  Anyone wishing to know more about the Royal Box creation can view a specially made slide-show from 29 April on either his facebook page ‘bespoke boxes by Ian Hawthorne’ or on Youtube under the title – A Box Fit for a Future King and Queen. 

"It's fantastic to see this high quality contemporary craft piece from Northern Ireland being given at such a prestigious and historic occasion,” said Joe Kelly, Director of Craft NI. Craft NI seeks to develop the craft industry in Northern Ireland by supporting and promoting the craft practitioners and businesses which contribute to the creative, cultural and economic life of Northern Ireland.