Aoibhin Garrihy
The actor and entrepreneur chats to Chloe Brennan about her favourite people, places and things
The loves of my LIFE
The person
John [Burke], my husband and best friend. I knew the day I met him he would be the one I would spend the rest of my life with
— it’s a total cliche, but it was a classic case of love at first sight!
The memory
The moment our little girl, Hanorah, was born. Meeting her, just clapping eyes on her and holding her for the very first time, was honestly the most surreal, incredible, almost out-of-body experience I’ve ever had.
The moment of the day
That hour or two before bedtime — that little moment of blissful downtime when you can unwind at the end of the day, the baby is asleep and it’s time to put the feet up!
The song
Inis Oirr in Inis Oirr, sung by Irish singersongwriter Lasairfhiona Ní Chonaola. It reminds me of our idyllic summer holidays spent growing up and exploring on the Aran Islands. “I knew the day I met John, he would be the one I would spend the rest of my life with”
The book
I rarely read books. Since my college days, I’ve always preferred to read plays. My favourite is Marina’s Carr’s By The Bog of Cats.
The hero
My mom and my dad, Clare and Eugene. The older I get, the more I admire them. They continue to support, guide, encourage and inspire us, and we are so blessed to have them.
The outfit
I definitely feel happiest and most comfortable when we’re on the beach, enjoying family time with our gorgeous dogs, Reggie and Ruby, and I’m in a pair of runners or sandals, a tracksuit and a parka jacket. Easy, breezy!
The accessory
My wedding band and engagement ring.
The gadget
All forms of child-proofing! Locks for presses, safety gates, etc. Hanorah is at the stage where we need eyes on the back of our heads, and so anything that gives peace of mind is a godsend.
The piece of advice
A problem shared is a problem halved. Communication is the first step towards any resolution or solution, and it often feels like an instant weight off.
The holiday
We love to travel and have had some incredible adventures to Asia, the Himalayas, Australia and the States, but recently we took our little girl in a camper van to Kerry, and I think it topped the lot!
The pet hate
I dislike negativity, in all its forms, but particularly online.
The taste
I love the taste of a chilled glass of Avonmore Fresh Milk, being conscious of getting the nourishment I need to support my pregnancy [Aoibhin is pregnant with her second child]. But when the cravings set in, I can’t resist a Magnum White! It’s my current obsession and a seriously guilty pleasure! “My sisters are my pillars of strength on down days and the best ones to celebrate with on up days”
The friend
My two sisters, Ailbhe and Doireann. I honestly don’t know where I would be without them. The love is unconditional. They are my pillars of strength on down days and the best ones to celebrate with on up days.
The beauty product
I’m currently sampling our new product range for Beo, our health and wellness brand, which involves sleep-enhancing ingredients, as we believe a good night’s sleep can do wonders for everybody’s well-being and, in turn, beauty. I’m learning the benefits of local ingredients, like hand-harvested seaweed and Burren beeswax. It has become my obsession!
The part of my body
The entire female reproductive system! It absolutely fascinates me and I have a whole new appreciation for what my body is capable of since becoming a mom. I feel so blessed and grateful for the joy it has brought to my life.
The drink
A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc, particularly when I’m in holiday mode. However, right now, a cold sparkling water and a dash of lime cordial is my go-to.
The hotel
I met and married my now husband in the Armada Hotel, Spanish Point, in Co Clare, so it would be remiss of me not to mention it! It holds a very special place in my heart. However, a night at The Shelbourne in Dublin, particularly during the festive season, soaking up the atmosphere, is always such a treat.
The smell
My baby’s head. It may sound strange and I cannot quite explain it, but if I could bottle that smell! It’s the most potent, emotive scent for mums, I believe.