Founded in Kinsale by Tracy McCarthy, a trained beauty and massage therapist, Naturally Balanced Oils explores the rich, restorative power of nature. Each blend is carefully crafted to honor natural health and well-being, combining traditional wisdom with a modern appreciation for sustainability and self-care. Tracy has been truly inspired by the transformative potential of plants — their ability to soothe, heal, and restore.

What’s a typical day in the studio like for you?

A typical day in the studio begins with carefully measuring and blending oils to create fresh batches of our signature blends. Once the mixtures are perfected, we move on to packaging each bottle, wrapping products with care, and assembling beautifully presented gift sets. Between tasks, we check messages and process incoming orders, making sure everything is prepared and dispatched on time, keeping the studio running smoothly from morning to close.

What do you like most about your work?

What I love most about my work is the way it allows me to genuinely connect with people, encouraging them to slow down and make time for meaningful self-care rituals. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about helping others carve out those small but important moments of calm. I also cherish the opportunity to collaborate with other business women, sharing ideas, supporting one another, and growing together in a way that feels both empowering and inspiring.

What’s your favourite craft item in your home?

Anything made of wood

Tell us about your first craft item you made?

The first craft item I made was a tapestry of a dragon

Who is your inspiration?

My inspiration comes from other small local businesses that value sustainability. They show how powerful it can be to shop local and support our communities. Their commitment to ethical practices encourages me to keep improving my own. They remind me that small changes can make a big difference.

Where do you get your inspiration?

I draw much of my inspiration from the natural world, taking cues from the seasons, the landscape, and the calming scents found outdoors. Using locally sourced ingredients is a big part of this, as it allows me to work with materials that are fresh, authentic, and rooted in the place I call home. I’m also inspired by the desire to create products that are gentle on the skin, encouraging simple, nurturing rituals that feel as soothing as nature itself.

Is sustainability an important aspect of your business?

Sustainability is at the heart of my practice. We source all of our ingredients locally, ensuring freshness while supporting nearby growers and reducing our environmental footprint. We also work hard to minimise waste by reusing packaging wherever possible, giving materials a longer life. As a member of Guaranteed Irish, we’re committed to supporting the Irish economy and contributing to a more responsible, community-focused way of doing business.

What’s the most challenging part of your craft?

The most challenging part of my craft is staying inspired while managing the practical side of things.Sometimes my mind is overflowing with ideas, and it’s hard to focus on just one. The cleaning up and tidying after creating can also feel endless, but it’s a necessary part of the process. Balancing a creative head with the practical demands of the studio is always a learning curve.

What made you choose your discipline?

I chose this discipline because, after working in the health and wellness industry for over sixteen years, I became increasingly dissatisfied with the products I was applying to my clients’ skin. I wanted something purer, more thoughtful, and truly aligned with the level of care I aimed to provide. Creating my own oils allowed me to craft products I could genuinely be proud to use—blends that are honest, nourishing, and made with the same intention and integrity I bring to my work every day.

How do you balance creativity with the business side of things?

I allow myself to create whenever an idea pops into my head, giving it space to unfold naturally. At the same time, I carve out dedicated moments each week to focus on the business side of things, making sure everything stays organised and on track. This balance lets me enjoy the freedom of creativity while still nurturing a steady, structured foundation for my work.

What would you say to anyone thinking of becoming a DCCI member

Definitely go for it! It is one of the best, most supportive groups out there, you will be wishing you joined sooner!