Celebrating Our Community at The Deerstone, Ireland

Posted by Bc SoftWear on 27th Jul 2026

After a hugely successful launch event last year, BC SoftWear returned to the beautiful Deerstone luxury eco hideaway in Co. Wicklow, Ireland, for the second year of The Gathering.

Hosted in partnership with GROUND Wellbeing, the second annual Gathering was a day retreat centred around the theme of Celebrating Our Community and gratitude.

Both the BC SoftWear and GROUND Wellbeing teams, alongside founders Barbara Cooke and Peigin Crowly, welcomed 50 guests to the Wicklow hills on 24th June for a day that moved between wellness sessions, a relaxed outdoor lunch and a live podcast talk.

Soundbaths and Blending

The day began with a welcome breakfast and hot drinks at The Shed, giving guests a chance to settle in before the morning's wellness programme got underway.

GROUND Wellbeing led an oil blending session, while a restorative sound bath ran alongside, setting a calm, grounded tone that carried throughout the rest of the day.

After a long lunch, catered by The Deerstone team, the afternoon saw everyone participate in a live podcast session with the Modern Wellness Podcast team – Sammi, Oli and Adrienne. The panel discussion was on modern wellness and what it means to each of us.

The afternoon drew to a close with a surprise guest appearance from comedian Ruairi McInerney, who once again stole the show and had the room in stitches. The event drew to a close with a drinks reception and dinner.

“Our second Gathering at Deerstone was designed to offer a slower pace in the heart of nature, where guests could take time for themselves, to think and reflect,” says Barbara Cooke. “Deerstone is the ideal place to help remind us all why slowing down together matters. We should all make time for a gentle pause from the fast pace of our industry – a moment to breathe, share and recharge.”

Nicola Flanagan, director of spa & wellness at The Coach House, said: “I genuinely look forward to this day each year and always walk away with fresh ideas and lots of new friends! It's a beautiful concept…”

Barbara Starzak Pilch, spa manager at The Brehon, added: “The oil blending workshop was a wonderful experience, and the sound bath was so relaxing, rejuvenating and calming. It was exactly the kind of peaceful time that helps you slow down and reconnect.”

With thanks to our sponsors

The Gathering wouldn't be possible without the generosity of our sponsors:

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us and made this year's The Gathering so special.

Watch our highlight reel: https://www.instagram.com/p/DaK-FL9lMNx/