Who are you, where are you from and what do you do?
I’m Carly O’Donovan, proudly from beautiful Bantry, a place that truly captures the heart of West Cork with its community spirit and breathtaking scenery.
I’m the owner of Bluebird Care Kerry and West Cork.
ADVERTISEMENT
Outside of work, I am a mom of one human, three dogs and a cat.
What was the most unexpected gift you’ve ever received for Christmas?
A few years ago, I was completely surprised with a trip to Iceland — for Christmas itself!
It was honestly one of the most magical experiences of my life. I felt like I’d stepped straight into a Christmas movie.
It was the perfect mix of wonder and adventure.
What is your favourite childhood memory of Christmas?
My favourite Christmas memories are from when we lived in the UK, where snow was almost guaranteed.
We would grab our sleds and head straight for the moors, ready for endless races down the hills.
We’d build snowmen, have the mandatory snowball fights, and return home red-cheeked, soaked, and laughing and absolutely frozen.
Name two celebrity guests, alive or dead, that you would invite to your Christmas party, and why?
I’d invite David Attenborough and Bressie.
David would bring that calm, wise voice to the table – imagine him narrating the chaos of Christmas dinner like a nature documentary: ‘And here we see the elusive roast potato, swiftly snatched by its predator before the gravy arrives…’ Absolute magic.
And then there’s Bressie – because he’s funny, grounded, and would keep the conversation real.
Plus, if anyone could coax a singalong or a few heartfelt reflections out of a crowd, it’s him.
Something that’s not a Christmas tradition, but it should be - what is it?
I’d love to start a ‘Secret Santa for compliments’ – you draw a name and write that person the most over-the-top, heartwarming, cheesy compliment imaginable.
I’m talking Hallmark-movie levels of flattery – something that makes them laugh, blush, and maybe even tear up a little.
Bonus points for rhymes, glitter, or dramatic flair when it’s read aloud!
What is your favourite thing about a West Cork Christmas?
Without a doubt, it’s the lights.
There’s something magical about seeing our towns lit up and twinkling against the winter nights.
The glow of the lights, the sense of community, and the festive buzz in the air make West Cork feel like its own little Christmas wonderland.
It’s simple, beautiful, and never fails to make me smile.
If Santa could give talents as gifts, what one would you like and why?
I would love the gift of musical talent – specifically, to be able to play the piano effortlessly.
I’ve always admired people who can sit down and make music that fills a room.
I’ve actually started taking lessons (with plenty of enthusiasm, if not much natural ability!), but progress is… let’s just say ‘delightfully slow’.
Still, I love the challenge, and I think there’s something magical about learning something new, no matter how long it takes.
What was the best thing about 2025?
2025 has honestly been an incredible year – one that’s made me proud, grateful, and a little bit amazed.
I published my first book, Tales of Trouble, which was a dream come true.
I was honoured to win a couple of awards, met a few celebrities, and made wonderful new connections through Network Ireland.
Professionally, my team at Bluebird Care continues to grow and shine, hitting our goals while keeping the heart in everything we do.
Health, wealth and wellbeing aside, what are your hopes for 2026?
For 2026, I’m hoping for more laughter, more adventures, and a little more balance — less rushing, more living.
I want to spend more time with good people doing meaningful things, and to keep finding joy in the everyday moments.
My biggest wish is for continued kindness in our communities – the kind that connects people and makes life just that bit warmer.
