Kilkenny business continues to light the way forward after four successful years
Wired Irish Crafts in Kilkenny is proof that a spark of an idea - when nurtured with love, ethics, and artistry - can truly shine
What began as a humble kitchen-table venture during the uncertain days of 2021 has since blossomed into a thriving artisan business lighting up hearts and homes in Kilkenny and across the globe.
Wired Irish Crafts, founded by husband-and-wife team Tracy and Douglas Higgins, proudly celebrates its fourth anniversary this May, marking a journey fueled by passion, innovation, and a commitment to sustainability.
Frustrated by the common flaws in traditional candles — tunneling, sooting, and fading scents — Tracy and Douglas set out to do things differently.
Using only eco-friendly and sustainable materials, they developed a line of artisan soy candles that not only look and smell beautiful but also address global environmental concerns.
Their carefully crafted candles eliminate the dreaded “candle tunneling” effect and dramatically reduce sooting, all while using vegan-friendly natural and essential oils that deliver a long-lasting scent throw.
“We wanted to create candles that were as kind to the earth as they are to the senses,” says Tracy.
“Everything we do, from the wax to the wick to the vessel, is about sustainability and quality.”
In a major milestone for the business, Douglas officially joined Wired Irish Crafts on a permanent basis as of April 1, 2025, leaving behind a 28-year career as a business manager in the commercial sector.
Having once travelled over 50,000 miles a year across Ireland to meet with clients and executives, Douglas now enjoys a completely different pace.
“Now I walk from my house to our amazing studio and get to meet people from all over the world every day,” he shares. “I can tell our story, connect with our customers personally, and showcase our extensive range of eco-friendly candles. It’s a lifestyle change I deeply value.”
Operating from their hand-pouring studio nestled in the historic Castle Yard in the heart of Kilkenny City, Wired Irish Crafts is more than a business, it’s a creative hub.
In a further step toward environmental stewardship, the company offers a unique “rewick, repour, and reuse” service.
Customers can bring back their bamboo bowls, coconut shells, and bespoke pottery vessels to be refilled—extending the life of both the candle and its container.
Designed for beginners and enthusiasts alike, the kit includes everything needed to craft your own eco-friendly soy candles at home.
A step-by-step video tutorial ensures that each creation turns out just right—making it the perfect gift or personal treat for those wanting to dive into the world of sustainable candle-making.
“This kit is our way of inviting everyone to experience the magic of candle-making, wherever they are,” says Douglas. “It’s about sharing what we’ve learned and inspiring others to create sustainably.”
For those farther afield, the full collection is available online at www.wiredirishcrafts.ie, with worldwide shipping.
From a modest kitchen table to a studio in a historic castle, Wired Irish Crafts is proof that a spark of an idea - when nurtured with love, ethics, and artistry - can truly shine.
Here’s to four years of glowing success, and many more to come.