Meet the Maker: Kate Parks, Baressential The Art of Soap

Posted 23.09.21

Kate Parks is a soap maker and skincare designer who runs her business, Baressential, from Athy, Co. Kildare. Baressential is a family business and Irish artisan skincare company where imagination, art, ethics and plant power are mixed to make perfect pampering gifts. All of Kate's skin-loving products are inspired by nature's bounty and are completely natural and respectfully sourced from nature. Discover Baressential – The Art of Soap at www.baressential.ie.

What's a typical day in the studio like for you?
There really isn't a typical day as I have so many hats to wear trying to grow and manage our business and make a living wage. I could be working on photography, packaging design, website design, sales, accounts, fundraising and, if I'm lucky, product design.

What do you like most about your work?
Working with my materials, plant oils, butters, botanicals and especially creating scent. I love the fact that they have their own intelligence and I am always learning.

What do you like least about your work?
Doing the accounts!

What's your favourite craft item in your home?
My mug made by John Ryan Ceramics.

What other maker in your discipline do you most look up to?
All really, creativity is the heart of it.

What advice would you give someone who is considering this craft career?
It’s not for the faint hearted!

What's your favourite time of the day?
Sunrise

How do you switch off?
Walking and visiting friends

How do you start your day?
Meditation - it's become a lifesaver

What's the first thing you do when you leave the studio?
Take a deep breath of air and thank fortune to be so lucky to be able to do what I love.

Favourite book?
The Hidden Life of Trees

Favourite film?
The Life Aquatic

Best concert you have ever been to?
Kila

Favourite meal?
Satay Chicken

Music when you're working?
No

What do you listen to?
Everything but my current favourite is Marin Marais