Showing posts with label Body Products. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Body Products. Show all posts

IT'S THE FINAL DAY TO PURCHASE SOAPS FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON!

December 20, 2024


Don't miss out on your last chance to experience the Northfield Winter Market today at the Middle School on Division Street! We'll be showcasing our handcrafted soaps from 9 am - 1 pm, and we invite you to join us. Among our offerings, you'll find our fan-favorite, Frosted Sea Glass. This soap features a refreshing blend of bergamot, lily of the valley, dewy greens, and hints of lavender and eucalyptus, all grounded by warm notes of cedarwood, oakmoss, resin, and musk. It's the perfect cleanse for anyone seeking a fresh, invigorating scent. Come by, indulge your senses, and support local artisans before the market wraps up for the season!


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THE ANNUAL TRIP TO THE TREE FARM INSPIRES ME

November 16, 2024


I'm so excited to share the latest batch of soap that's set to make its debut at our upcoming craft market. This creation holds a special place in my heart, as its design is inspired by our yearly trips to Hansen's Tree Farm to pick out the perfect Christmas tree. We've only been lucky enough once to be there while it snowed and it was a magical scene, with fluffy white flakes dusting the trees. I've scented this one with a personal favorite; apple sage. You might wonder why I didn't go with the classical evergreen scent; well, that's because I've already blended that one into a separate Christmas tree-shaped soap that I can't wait to unveil later. Trust me, you're going to love both! So come check out these soapy treasures at the market. They're bound to bring a little piece of holiday magic to your home!


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SOAPY CUPCAKES: A SWEET TREAT FOR BATH TIME

November 12, 2024



I absolutely love making these adorable mini soap cupcakes! They're the perfect creation for the Soap Pixie, and they've become a favorite among our customers. This latest batch is made with a yummy smelling maple almond fragrance that will transport you straight to the cozy aroma of freshly baked cupcakes on a snowy Christmas morning. It's simply heavenly! These scrumptious soapy treats will be available for purchase at the Northfield Winter Market on November 23rd. If you're in the area, make sure to stop by the Northfield Middle School between 9 am - 1 pm. Grab yourself a few - you won't regret it! We can't wait to see you there!



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DISCOVER THE BEAUTY OF SPARKLING SNOWDROP SOAP

November 9, 2024

At the Soap Pixie, our sparkling snowdrop soap brings nature's beauty to life. Imagine the uplifting blend of Valencia orange and bergamot, harmonizing with wild berry sweetness. Primrose and violet share their gentle secrets, while clove leaf wraps you in its warm embrace. A stroll through a vibrant forest dances in the mingling scents of purple lilac and twigs. Finally, white musk lingers softly, leaving an inspiring trail of freshness. Each bar revitalizes your spirit with a luscious lather - an invitation to indulge. 

Join us at the Northfield Winter Market this November 23rd and treat yourself to a bar or two!

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THE TRUTH ABOUT SHAMPOO BARS

October 23, 2024

I've wrestled with whether or not to speak up about this for what feels like ages. Honestly, calling out other soap makers was never something I wanted to do; it just feels counterproductive and downright uncomfortable. But after a recent encounter at one of my craft markets left me feeling uneasy, and then experiencing a lightbulb moment today, I realize I can't stay silent any longer. I've observed a troubling trend that I believe amounts to manipulation of the public. It's disheartening to watch practices that not only confuse consumers but also undermine the integrity of our craft. So, to those of you who have embraced shampoo bars, whether it's because you love how they work for your hair or you're simply trying to cut down on packaging, it's essential to know this: what you may think is a shampoo bar is often just a bar of soap, and you definitely shouldn't be paying more for it.

A couple weeks ago, while I was manning my table at the Riverwalk Market, a woman approached me with a specific inquiry about shampoo bars. Unfortunately, I had to tell her I didn't carry any. She lingered, browsing my soaps and scrutinizing the labels. I could see her growing confused, and when she pointed out how similar some of the ingredients in my products were to shampoo bars she'd seen, I simply nodded in agreement. When she asked if it was common for ingredients to overlap, I confirmed, which seemed to set her off. "So they just slap on the shampoo bar label," she stated, visibly disappointed. That moment left me feeling uneasy; I didn't want to throw anyone under the bus for questionable selling practices, but I also couldn't deceive her. As she walked away, my mind spiraled into thoughts about how this perception could tarnish the reputation of all handmade body product sellers - including myself. More recently, during a visit to the co-op near my house, I stumbled across shampoo bars that were shockingly overpriced. The seller wanted $10 for a 3 ounce bar. They sparked my curiosity at first, but then the price left me scratching my head - where was the justification for such cost? Sure, people can set whatever prices they want, and I respect that, but it's disheartening to think that some products, labeled as artisanal or handmade, might mislead consumers. 

It's become increasingly common to stroll through stores and see products labeled as "shampoo bars" that, at a glance, look strikingly similar to your run-of-the-mill soap. What really gets under my skin is the pricing - these so-called shampoo bars often come with a price tag that's noticeably higher, leading consumers to believe there's something uniquely beneficial about them. Now, I can't say for sure whether the artisans behind these bars are intentionally trying to mislead anyone; maybe they just want their creations to be recognized for hair use and set a price they find fair. That's their prerogative. My concern lies in the message that's being communicated to customers who hop on board the shampoo bar trend, convinced they're purchasing something special that promises to improve their hair's health. When you dig a little deeper, though, and ask folks about the difference, you'll usually hear that these bars are pH balanced and enriched with nourishing ingredients specifically for hair. Yet, a quick look at the ingredient lists reveals that many use the same ingredients as regular body soaps. It creates this weird disconnect that feels a bit disingenuous, and I can't help but feel that consumers deserve more transparency. 

It's true that many of the same oils and butters used in handmade soaps are often found in shampoo bars, and some people might shrug it off, thinking, "So what?" But the reality is far more complicated than that, and the conversations happening on platforms like Reddit reveal a growing frustration among consumers. Many users are sharing their disappointment not only with the performance of these shampoo bars but also with the misleading marketing that suggests these products are somehow superior or tailored for hair care.  Claims that glamorize a product without full transparency can lead to some serious disappointment. It's not just about the ingredients; it's about the expectations that come with them and when these expectation aren't met, you bet people are going to voice their concerns loud and clear. 

The following two images are taken from a Reddit thread.


To be clear, when I talk about shampoo bars, I'm specifically referring to those handmade-looking blocks that resemble a classic bar of soap, the ones you often see displayed in eco-friendly shops. There are loads of other shampoo bars out there that are totally different, usually round and packed with ingredients tailored to hair care. Those aren't the ones I'm ranting about here. My concern lies with a specific subset, which, while appealing for being eco-friendly and containing safe natural ingredients aren't always what people think they are. 

The following image is what shampoo bars with specific hair care ingredients usually look like.


I guess what I really want to get across here is the importance of being informed about what you're buying, especially in the realm of personal care products. It's surprisingly easy for someone to take a regular bar of soap, slap a "shampoo bar" label on it, and charge you a premium because everyone seems to be jumping on that trend. There's nothing illegal about it - it's fair game in the marketing world. But as a savvy consumer, you should definitely know what you're spending your money on. Just because something is labeled a shampoo bar doesn't necessarily mean it's a superior product for your hair. So before you splurge on that trendy little bar, take a moment to really consider what's in it and whether it actually fits your needs. 
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A JOURNEY BACK TO ALL NATURAL SOAPMAKING

October 8, 2024


For years I was all about crafting 100% all-natural soaps, pouring my passion for herbs and essential oils into each batch, but as you might guess, diving into that world was like jumping into a sea of wave after wave of competitors at Farmers' markets and natural food stores; it felt like every corner I turned had someone else peddling the same exact type of soap. So I took a different path and focussed on playing around with fragrance oils and micas, which allowed me to get more creative with my soap designs. It turns out people really love a little pizzazz in their body products. So from then on I didn't really make a lot of natural soap unless someone placed a custom order or the moment called for it, like the Earth Day market I did in Northfield this past spring. 

From the batches I made for Earth Day I gifted my doctor a bar of natural lavender soap, and when she noticed my unique blend of oils and butters she really liked it. Next thing I know I'm sending soaps over to be sold at her clinic, and they are flying off the shelf. 

It fills me with so much joy to think I'm contributing to someone's well-being, even in a small way. After all, health and healing are super important to me, and seeing my creations be a part of that for someone else truly makes me happy.


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TUTORIAL: ESSENTIAL OIL SOLID PERFUME HOLDER

September 9, 2024

 


The following directions are for how to make the base of the bag above. Decorate according to your preference. The process of making the bag above is shown on YouTube. The images below are just to guide you through making the base yourself. 

 
Use cardstock. 
Cut the cardstock at 7" x 7 3/4"


Score along the 7 3/4" side at 5/8", 1 3/8", 4 1/4", 5"

Turn the cardstock to the 7" side and score at 1 3/8" and 6 3/8"

Cut out the areas that are shaded in purple

It should look like this after the shaded areas are removed.


Cut along the dark black lines and remove the pieces that are at an angle



This is what it should look like after your cut those pieces out.

Fold along the score lines.

Center where you want your window to be. If using the 1 3/8 circle punch, I found the center at 1 3/8" from edge. 

You don't really need to measure to punch a centered circle. You can eye ball it.

To create a frame with a scallop punch you first punch a hole in a different colored cardstock

Then you place the scallop punch around the hole, center and then punch. 

Glue the scalloped frame on your window.


Start assembling the bag by taping the long edge first. 

this is what the bag looks like after taping the long edge.

Tape the bottom

Pinch both sides of the bag. You only have to pinch the upper half.


Punch a hole through all three layers of the cardstock. 


This hole will be used for the ribbon.

Once you are finished with the above you can decorate the bag however you wish. To put the .5 ounce round tin inside you need to place a glue dot on the back of the tin so it will stick. You center it in the window and press firmly to make sure it is in place. The glue dot will hold it. You then tie the ribbon to keep the bag closed.

The .5 ounce tins can be found at Wholesale Supplies Plus
You can use them to hold solid essential oil perfume, solid fragrance oil perfume. or lip balm.

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REOPENING OUR BOOTH: WE ARE BACK TO SELLING AT THE CRAFT MARKET

September 5, 2024


After taking the month of August to focus on home projects, we are excited to announce our return to the Riverwalk Market in Northfield, MN on September 14th. This break allowed us to recharge and tackle a variety of tasks at home. Now with those things out of the way, we are eager to reconnect with the vibrant community at the market.

The Riverwalk Market is a wonderful venue filled with local vendors, artisanal crafts, and fresh produce, making it a hub of creativity and community spirit. We've missed the lively atmosphere and are we're thrilled to engage with fellow artisans and visitors once again. If you find yourself in the area, we invite you to stop by our booth, say hello, and explore our latest soaps. Your support means the world to us, and we can't wait to share what we've been working on during our time away!

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ARTS IN THE PARK!

July 29, 2024

 

Tomorrow marks the final day of our time at Arts in the Park in Forest Lake, Minnesota, and we'd be thrilled to have you join us if you're nearby. This even has been a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow artists and crafters as well as to showcase our unique soaps. A variety of amazing vendors are participating, each contributing their own flair and artistry, so don't miss out on the chance to explore all they have to offer. You an check out all the great vendors HERE

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NO PLACE BETTER TO SELL THAN NEAR THE SHORE OF LAKE SUPERIOR

July 14, 2024



This past Saturday we had the wonderful opportunity to sell our handmade soaps at the Festival by the Lake in Duluth. The sun was blazing down, turning the day into a real scorcher, but the host was kind enough to place our booth just a stone's throw away from the shimmering waters of the beautiful Lake Superior. The proximity to the lake not only provided a stunning view but also brought with it the occasional cool breezes that made the day far more bearable. Without that refreshing air, I can't imagine managing to stay outside for the 12 hours that I did!

While the turnout was quieter than I had anticipated, which I suspect might have been due to the heat, the atmosphere was still enjoyable. It was a leisurely day, allowing us to connect with those who did venture out to explore the festival. Even with fewer people, there was a unique charm to the event, and the backdrop of Lake Superior always steals the show. Overall, despite the heat and the relatively low attendance, it was a beautiful day spent in Duluth - our favorite lakeside city with - with our treasured soaps in hand.

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BOMBS AWAY...

July 11, 2024


With the Festival by the Lake just around the corner in Duluth, MN I felt inspired to get a little crafty and create some colorful bath bombs for the event. While I've always leaned towards the classic round shapes, I recently received a delightful gift from a fellow soap maker-adorable starfish molds that spark my creativity. It's amazing how a simple mold can transform the entire aesthetic of a bath bomb. Crafting these starfish bath bombs has been not only a labor of love but also a great way to channel the warm, beachy vibes of summer into my work, even if I wasn't actually lounging not he sand when I snapped that pictures, it's all about the magic of imagination, right? I can already picture them sitting pretty at my booth, adding a splash of color and a hint of ocean charm that will surely catch the eyes of festival goers.

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ARTS IN THE PARK

June 26, 2024

We had a wonderful day selling yesterday at Arts in the Park in Forest Lake. This was our first time participating in this event as well as our first visit to Forest Lake, so we were a bit uncertain about what to expect. However, our experience exceeded all expectations. The sun was shining brightly, casting a warm glow over the park, and the atmosphere was filled with laughter and smiles from the many friendly visitors. Our booth was bustling with activity, and we found ourselves engaging with a variety of delightful people who were genuinely interested in our offerings. We truly couldn't have asked for a better day to debut our presence in such a vibrant community.

I must also commend the organizers of the Arts in the Park for their dedication and professionalism. They were incredibly easy to work with, always ready to lend a hand or provide guidance whenever we needed it. Their hard work behind the scenes ensured that the event ran smoothly and was enjoyable for both vendors and attendees alike. It's evident that they are passionate about creating a welcoming atmosphere that brings people together. We found ourselves wishing we could participate every Tuesday! If only the distance weren't a factor, we would undoubtedly be regulars at this wonderful event.

For those in the area, we're excited to announce that we'll be returning to Forest Lake on July 16th and July 30th. We would love of you to stop by, say hello, and check out what we have to offer. Connecting with the local community has been the highlight of our experience, and we look forward to seeing familiar faces as well as new ones.

If you want more information about Arts in the Park, be sure to follow this link CHECK IT OUT HERE We can't wait to see you there!



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WILL YOUR SKIN LOVE MY SOAP?

June 17, 2024



Over the years, my journey into soap making has been one of constant evolution and experimentation. Initially, I relied on a simple blend of palm, coconut, and olive oil. However, as I became more mindful of both ethical and personal health considerations, I felt compelled to remind my formula. The guiding principle behind d my crafting is straightforward: I will not sell a product that I wouldn't feel comfortable using on myself, and my soaps are. direct reflection of that commitment. In my early days I learned this lesson the hard way; I had incorporated an excessive amount of coconut oil, oblivious to the impact it was having on my skin. While my husband and children experienced no adverse effects, my own skin rebelled, leaving it uncharacteristically parched after showers. Through research, I discovered that many people share this sensitivity, particularly when coconut oil exceeds 20% in a soap recipe. This realization prompted me to adjust my formulations accordingly, ultimately leading to more balanced and skin friendly products. 

As I delved deeper into the craft, I found myself tinkering with different oils, meticulously considering their individual properties and how they would influence the final bar of soap. Questions about lather, quality, moisture retention, and bar hardness became central to my experimentation. Each adjustment revealed new facets of what might make the perfect soap, meticulously balancing functionality with the soap characteristics that could benefit various skin types. It was a rewarding yet challenging process but one that deepened my understanding of the materials I was using.

Another significant shift in my recipe arose form the growing awareness of the environmental implications tied to palm oil production. Disillusioned by the industry's "sustainable palm oil" claims, I made the decision to eliminate palm oil from my base recipe entirely. This presented a new conundrum: how to maintain that ideal blend of texture, lather, and durability without it. The journey was punctuated by the numerous trails and errors as I south the perfect formulation that delivered on both performance and ethical standards. yet, after endless experiments and a commitment to finding a balance that would suit a variety of skin types, I ultimately discovered a recipe that achieved all of my desires. This meticulously honed blend is one I'm proud to use and share, standing as a testament to the careful journey I've undertaken in my soap making endeavors. 

My current recipe consists of the following butters and oils:

Almond Oil is said to soothe dry skin and improve skin tone. It's highly emollient which means it can prevent moisture and water loss. It's full of vitamin A and vitamin E which may help heal sun damage and reduce signs of aging, scars and wrinkles. 

Babassu Oil is said to be packed full of antioxidants which can help moisturize skin and reduce cellular damage. 

Coconut Oil is said to be a hydrating oil so it can prevent moisture loss and be very nourishing to dry skin. It also contains antibacterial properties and is helpful at removing dirt and makeup buildup. 

Olive Oil or Rice Bran Oil OO is known for moisturizing the skin and helpful at improving skin tone and texture due to its antioxidant and polyphenol properties. It is also known for easily penetrating the skin to cleanse it by removing dead skin cells. RB is said to be deeply hydrating and helpful at protecting the skin from sun damage. It shares many of the same properties as OO. 

Shea Butter  is known for being very moisturizing. It easily penetrates the skin and contains anti-inflammatory properties. It is commonly used after sun exposure or to help reduce acne or calm rashes. It is contains a high amount of Vitamin A & E.

Mango Butter is known for being anti-inflammatory and soothing. It contains vitamin A which is known to reduce signs of aging, wrinkles, and scars. This oil can be helpful at cleaning the skin and unclogging pores. 

Cocoa Butter is said to be moisturizing, protective and prevent moisture loss. It is known for being high in antioxidants, protecting against sun damage and good for sensitive skin.

Avocado Oil can be helpful at neutralizing free radical damage and protecting skin cells. It contains a lot of Vitamin C which may prevent wrinkles. This oil is helpful for dry and sunburned skin. This oil moisturizing and helps soften skin. 

Now the big question is, will your skin love my soap? 

To truly answer the question, there's only one way to find out: give it a try! The transformational power of a good soap lies in its ability to cleanse without stripping away the skin's natural oils. With a luscious lather and a captivating aroma, each use becomes a pampering ritual rather than a mundane chore. As you embark on this journey of discovery, you'll have the opportunity to see how your skin responds - whether it becomes softer, clearer, or simply radiates a newfound glow.

So, why not take the leap of faith? Embrace the trial and let your skin tell the story. After all, the relationship between you and your skin is personal, and it deserves only the best. Find out if your skin will love the soap that I so passionately create. 😃

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LET THE CRAFT MARKETS BEGIN!!!

May 14, 2024



 My daughter and I will be at the Riverwalk Market in Northfield, MN this coming Saturday, May 18th from 9 am - 1 pm.  Come see us if you are in town. We'll have the following soap scents on hand:

raspberry jam mini soap cupcakes
bali breeze
electric lemonade
watermelon
blueberry jam
willow and ivy
honey 
lilac
lavender
unscented goats milk
geranium
peppermint
lemongrass
 

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COME OUT AND SEE US THIS EARTH DAY WEEKEND

April 22, 2024

Maya and I will be at the Northfield Earth Day Celebration this Saturday April 27th from 12 noon until 4 pm selling our handmade soaps and knitted washcloths so if you are in town drop by and say hi, we'd love to see you. 

This is going to be a great eco friendly event with educational presentations and workshops.  Come out to make a birdhouse, seed balls, and a pollinator box. Learn about growing your own food, creating bee lawns, composting and much more. 

We hope to see you there!



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RUN, RUN AS FAST AS YOU CAN! YOU CAN'T CATCH ME, I'M THE GINGERBREAD MAN!

November 13, 2023

Get ready for a delightful treat this holiday season! I'm excited to announce that I'll have some adorable gingerbread men available for purchase at the Winter Market in Northfield on November 18th. These charming little soaps not only look festive but also smell absolutely divine, reminiscent of freshly baked gingerbread cookies wafting through the air. Just imagine the comforting aroma of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg enveloping your senses.

These gingerbread men soaps have become a favorite among our customers, and it's no surprise why - they are perfect for adding a cheerful touch to any holiday gathering or for giving gifts. Each batch is crafted with care, ensuring that they not only lather beautifully but also bring a smile to someone's face. With their irresistible scent and cute shape, they tend to sell out quickly, so be sure to stop by early to snag your own. Join us at the Winter Walk and bring home a little piece of holiday joy!




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UPCOMING CRAFT MARKETS, HERE WE COME!

November 11, 2023

We will be at the winter market in Nortfield Minnesota every other weekend starting November 18th.  Here are a few of the soaps we'll have on hand.





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SOME NEW GOODIES IN THE SHOP

October 16, 2023

I finally have the website back up and running. Phew!

The excitement of launching new products is always a thrill, and this time is no different. I've uploaded the new soaps that are here for sale, and I can't wait for everyone to experience the fresh scents and vibrant colors that I've been working on.

Here are the latest additions to my collection: from calming lavender bars to invigorating citrus blends, each soap is handcrafted with love and care.

Be sure to check out the website for not just the soaps, but also to find out about other upcoming products. Your support means the world to me, and I'm eager to share these delightful new creations with all o you. Thank you for your patience during the website revamp - let's get back to enjoying the art of self-care!

Lemonade Stand

Smell the Rainbow



Pumpkin Souffle



Spearmint




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SOAPY CUPCAKES FOR THE KIDS ARE ON THE WAY

August 25, 2023

In June, I decided to take my passion for crafting to the next level by bringing mini soapy cupcakes to the Riverwalk Market in Northfield. To my delight, they turned out to be a tremendous hit! children were particularly drawn to these adorable little soaps, especially the ones designed to resemble popular treats like cupcakes and donuts. There's something magical about the way these whimsical creations capture their attention. The vibrant colors and playful shapes spark joy and imagination. While it was an absolute blast to make them, I must admit that my piping skills still need a bit of work. 😅

Fast forward to September, and I've whipped up a new batch of soapy cupcakes, this time infused with the delightful scent of Berry Bliss fragrance oil. The aroma is simply irresistible, reminiscent of sweet summer days. Of course, I have to remind everyone that while they look good enough to eat, they're purely for pampering and not for consumption. It's such a thrill to share these enchanting creations with others, knowing that they not only brighten up the bath time but also bring a smile to anyone who encounters them. Who knew soap making could be such a fun creative endeavor?


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NEW SOAPS FOR THE AUTUMN SEASON

August 24, 2023

As September approaches, the excitement for fall begins to fill our home, where we eagerly embrace the start of meteorological fall on September 1st. 🍁 The transition is marked by a vibrant burst of autumn colors-orange, yellow, and red - as we adorn our living space with seasonal decorations. Halloween motifs start to appear, inviting a sense of playfulness and nostalgia, while the cracking warmth of bonfires fills the air with that unmistakable scent of cozy gatherings. We indulge in the comforting aroma of pumpkin scented candles, which flicker gently, heralding the comforting embrace of fall. Additionally, our handcrafted fall soaps make their way to our website, ready to delight customers with their seasonal fragrances. 

This year, we are thrilled to introduce a curated collection of fall soaps just in time for the season. Each handmade creation is infused with scents that epitomize autumn, inviting everyone to indulge in the essence of this magical time of year. I'll be featuring these delightful soaps not only on our website but also at the Northfield Riverwalk Market, where I'll have the pleasure of showcasing them on September 2nd, September 16th, and October 14th. I warmly invite anyone in the area to stop by our booth, where you can experience the wonderful new scents firsthand. There's nothing quite like the thrill of fall, and I can't wait to share with you!

Autumn Fig

Rosehip Jasmine

Apple Sage


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