Author: Lottie Simons

This weekend was a great success for the WillowWarm team at the Permanent TSB Ideal Home Show. We were delighted to be located right at the entrance in the Cosy Cabin, where visitors were greeted by the warmth of our real WillowWarm fire and a truly homely, inviting atmosphere. It was wonderful to meet so many of you who stopped by to learn more about our carbon-neutral briquettes and how they can bring both comfort and conscience to your home. 

Championing Irish-Made Sustainability 

At WillowWarm, our mission has always been clear: to provide a more sustainable alternative to traditional solid fuels. Our carbon-neutral briquettes are produced in County Meath using Irish-grown willow and locally sourced biomass, creating renewable heat that reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels and helps Ireland move toward a cleaner energy future. 

Events like the Ideal Home Show offer the perfect platform for us to highlight the importance of homegrown, renewable energy solutions. As Ireland continues its journey toward a low-carbon future, we believe that sustainable heating products play a vital role in this transition. 

Dermot Bannon: Inspiring Smarter, Greener Homes 

A highlight of the weekend was our brand ambassador Dermot Bannon’s talk on Saturday, where he spoke about the value of energy efficiency, sustainable materials, and intelligent design in creating warm, comfortable homes. 

Dermot’s passion for combining style with sustainability perfectly reflects the WillowWarm philosophy that Irish design and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand. His discussion drew a large, engaged crowd eager to learn more about practical ways to make their homes more energy-efficient without compromising on comfort or aesthetics, a message we proudly share at WillowWarm. 

A Step Toward a More Sustainable Future 

Attending the Ideal Home Show reaffirmed what we already know: Irish homeowners are increasingly motivated to make environmentally conscious choices. Whether it’s through upgrading insulation, investing in renewable heating, or switching to sustainable fuels like WillowWarm, small steps at home can make a big impact on the planet. 

We’re proud to play our part in this movement and remain committed to helping Irish households stay warm sustainably, with fuel that’s efficient and making a difference. 

To learn more about our carbon-neutral briquettes and how they’re made, visit our Sustainability Page. 

When Are the Clocks Going Back This Year? 

It’s that time again, the annual moment of confusion where everyone asks: “Are we gaining or losing an hour?” 

To clear it up once and for all: the clocks go back one hour at 2 a.m. on Sunday, 26th October 2025. That means an extra hour in bed (or, if you’re running the Dublin Marathon that morning, an extra hour of rest before it’s go time🏃‍♀️🔥). 

Why Do the Clocks Change?

The concept of changing the clocks, known as Daylight Saving Time (DST), was first introduced to make better use of natural daylight and reduce energy consumption. 

Here’s how it works: 

• In spring, we move clocks forward to enjoy longer evenings. 

• In autumn, we move them back to get brighter mornings. 

This shift helps align our waking hours with available sunlight, which can improve energy efficiency, productivity, and even mental wellbeing. 

When mornings get lighter, our bodies produce less melatonin (the sleep hormone) and more serotonin (the “feel good” hormone); giving us a subtle seasonal boost. 

Not Everyone Changes Their Clocks 

While many countries in Europe and North America participate in daylight savings, plenty of others have said “no thanks.” 

Countries that don’t change their clocks include: 

• China – operates on one standard time zone year-round. 

• Japan – stopped using daylight savings after World War II.  

• India – sticks to Indian Standard Time all year. 

• Iceland – so far north, daylight savings barely makes a difference. 

• Most of Africa and South America – don’t change their clocks at all. 

Meanwhile, the European Union has discussed ending clock changes altogether, but for now, Ireland still takes part. So, we’ll continue to “fall back” and “spring forward” for a little while longer. 

The Bright Side of the Clock Change 

It’s easy to focus on the hassle of changing clocks each year, but there are actually plenty of upsides to look forward to: 

• Brighter mornings – ideal for early risers. 

• Cosier evenings – perfect for lighting a fire and slowing down after a long day. 

• A healthier routine – that extra hour of sleep can do wonders for your energy and mood. 

In short, the clock change marks the start of the WillowWarm season, when homes glow brighter, nights get longer, and everyone craves a bit more comfort.

How to Avoid the Classic ‘Wrong-Time Wake-Up’ 

Every October, social media fills with confessions like “I showed up to brunch an hour early” or “my oven still thinks it’s summer.”
Here’s how to stay one step ahead: 

• Update manual clocks before bed – phones and smart devices will sort themselves out. 

• Enjoy the extra hour – slow mornings are the best kind of mornings. 

• Remember: it’s marathon day! – whether you’re running or relaxing, take your time (literally).
• The Dublin Marathon Connection 

The Dublin Marathon falls on the same morning the clocks go back, which is great news for every runner. That extra hour of sleep might be just the boost needed before tackling those 26.2 miles!

And for those cheering from home, it’s the perfect Sunday to settle in, turn on the TV, and enjoy the atmosphere with a WillowWarm fire burning bright.

Because, whether you’re crossing the finish line or simply crossing the living room for another cup of tea, everyone deserves to stay warm and comfortable. 

No matter what the clock says, it’s always the right time for comfort and warmth.  

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Set the Scene for a Cosy Halloween Night In

As autumn deepens and the nights grow longer, there’s no better time to curl up beside a glowing WillowWarm fire and enjoy a perfectly cosy Halloween night in. Whether you’re hosting a family movie marathon or braving a few spooky thrillers after dark, WillowWarm sets the scene for warmth, comfort, and festive fun.

Grab your blanket, pour a hot drink, and let the flicker of the fire create the perfect Halloween atmosphere.

Family-Friendly Frights

If you’re spending Halloween with little ones, or simply prefer heartwarming magic over jump scares, these films guarantee fun by the fire.

Hocus Pocus (Disney+) 

Halloween simply isn’t complete without a visit from the Sanderson Sisters. The 1993 original remains a cult classic with its sequel from 2022, Hocus Pocus 2, bringing a modern twist on the beloved original.

ParaNorman (Prime Video)

A stop-motion masterpiece with both heart and humour, ParaNorman boasts an impressive 89% on Rotten Tomatoes for its clever storytelling and stunning animation.

The Addams Family (Netflix) 

A gothic classic that never goes out of style. With the success of Netflix’s Wednesday, interest in this spooky family is higher than ever.

The Nightmare Before Christmas (Disney+) 

A true Tim Burton masterpiece that bridges Halloween and Christmas. With Jack Skellington, Sally, and unforgettable songs, it’s the perfect pick for all ages.

Corpse Bride (Netflix) 

Another Tim Burton gem blending dark romance and whimsical storytelling. Its stunning animation and haunting soundtrack make it ideal for a quiet Halloween night in.

Coco (Disney+) 

While not strictly a Halloween movie, Coco’s message about family, memory, and love makes it a perfect autumn watch. It’s also one of the most beloved animated films of the last decade, holding a 97% “Certified Fresh” rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

Frankenweenie (Disney+) 

From the imagination of Tim Burton, Frankenweenie is a heartwarming and beautifully animated story about a boy who brings his beloved pet dog back to life. With its black-and-white stop-motion style and gothic charm, it captures the spooky spirit of Halloween in a way that’s both touching and timeless. Perfect for family movie night and a great pick for fans of The Nightmare Before Christmas or Beetlejuice.

Grown-Up Screams for After the Kids are in Bed

Once the little ghosts are asleep, turn up the fear factor with these top horror picks.

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice (Prime Video) 

Tim Burton’s long-awaited sequel to the 1988 classic, with critic praise for its blend of surreal humour and nostalgia.

The First Omen (Disney+) 

This 2024 prequel earned critical approval for its slow-building dread and eerie atmosphere.

Longlegs (Prime Video)

One of the most chilling films of 2024, this psychological horror starring Nicolas Cage has been hailed as “the scariest film in years.”

Talk to Me (Netflix)

An Australian horror phenomenon that went viral for its fresh take on séance culture and social media obsession.

Final Destination: Bloodlines (Prime Video)

This surprise critical hit revitalises the franchise with smart, self-aware scares and sleek production.

(H5) Halloween (Netflix)

No spooky season is complete without Michael Myers. The 2018 revival remains one of the highest-rated instalments in the series.

Hidden Horror Gems for True Halloween Fans

V/H/S/99 (Prime Video)

Part of the cult anthology series known for creative found-footage storytelling. A must-watch for horror purists seeking something different.

Fréwaka (Independent Irish Release) 

A hauntingly beautiful Irish folk horror rooted in rural legend and atmosphere, a perfect local pick for fans of psychological storytelling.

The Last Cabin (2025)

A tense, found-footage-style thriller about isolation and paranoia deep in the woods. A gem for fans of slow-burn suspense.

Light the Fire and Set the Scene with WillowWarm

Beyond setting the mood, WillowWarm’s carbon-neutral briquettes help create a steady, comforting heat that keeps your home warm all night long, perfect for those long movie marathons.

So, this Halloween, light your WillowWarm fire, pour something warm to drink, and enjoy the best of the spooky season from the comfort of home.

Whether you’re laughing with the family or braving a jump scare or two after dark, WillowWarm brings the perfect cosy glow to every moment.

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