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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LOVELY LAVENDER

July 13, 2024

I absolutely love lavender; it's one of my favorite scents. There's something truly enchanting about the way its delicate aroma fills the air, soothing the senses and transporting me to a serene lavender field. Not too far from my house is a hidden gem called the Lavender Barnyard, a delightful little lavender farm that invites you to immerse yourself in the beauty of this fragrant herb. The moment I step onto the property, I am greeted by rows of vibrant lavender plants dancing gently in the breeze, their hues ranging from soft lilac to deep purple. It's a sensory paradise, and I can hardly resist the urge to take in a deep breath of their intoxicating fragrance.

The owner, Marie has poured her heart into creating an idyllic landscape for anyone who shares her passion for lavender. As I wander through the far, I can't help but admire the wide variety of lavender species she cultivates, each offering its unique scent and charm. The gift shop is another highlight of my visits, filled with an array of lavender-themed products from essential oils and sachets to delicious culinary treats infused with lavender. Marie hosts events that celebrate the beauty of lavender, inviting the community to come together and cherish the simple pleasures of life, whether through workshops, picnics, or seasonal activities.

What I enjoy most about the Lavender Barnyard is the delightful company of bees. As I pick my bundles of lavender I find myself surrounded by these busy little pollinators, harmoniously buzzing from flower to flower. Their gentle presence adds to the tranquility of the experience, reminding me of the importance of nature and its interconnectedness. Each visit reinforced my love for lavender and depends my appreciation for beautiful spaces that others have cultivated. 


 

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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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WE NEVER MISS A CHANCE TO GO BERRY PICKING

July 10, 2024

Who doesn't love berry picking? Every summer my family and I have embraced the delightful tradition of heading out to our favorite farms with baskets in hand, eager to harvest sweet gifts. Since my children were babies, berry picking has become a cherished ritual that fills our lives with joy and laughter. Our favorites to pick are strawberries and blueberries, but when our beloved strawberry farm closed its doors after the owners retired, and our go-to blueberry farm suffered mightily due to the last two years of a drought, we faced the bittersweet challenge of finding new locations of your annual escapade. 

This year our search lead us to the picturesque Little Hill Berry Farm. What a gem it turned out to be! The moment we arrived, we were greeted by rows upon rows of luscious blueberries and vibrant currants waiting to be picked. The air was filled with the sweet scent of ripe berries, and the sight was simply enchanting. The small store on-site was a delightful bonus, stocked with an array of locally made items that showcased the region's artisanal talents. It felt good to support local farmers while enjoying the fruits of our labor - and speaking of fruits, the fact that the berries are organize only adds to the charm of this wonderful farm.

If you're a berry-picking enthusiast and find yourself in Minnesota, Little Hill Berry Farm is an absolute must visit. It's more than just a fun family outing; it's a chance to reconnect with nature, indulge in organic delights, and create unforgettable memories together. Each year may bring new challenges and changes, but the joy of berry picking will forever remain a beloved tradition in our lives.










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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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IT'S TIME FOR SUMMERWEEN!!

June 20, 2024

Did you know there's a Halloween celebration at the start of summer? I certainly didn't until last year when my daughter excitedly shared the concept with me. The whole idea of Summerween, a quirky celebration that stems from the fictional town of Gravity Falls, Oregon, intrigued me. Gravity Falls is a beloved Disney cartoon that my girls used to adore, and even though it's long off the air, my youngest remains devoted to its charm. The unique blend of autumnal festivities int he bright day of summer resonated with her, and a group of friends eagerly embraced the chance to celebrate this whimsical event.

As Summerween has transformed into a nationwide phenomenon embraced by young people and Halloween enthusiasts alike, I felt inspired to join in on the fun this year. To spread the word and encourage others to participate, I created this graphic for Instagram, celebrating the delightful spirit of having Halloween at the beginning of summer. It's a chance for those who cherish everything Halloween; candy, costumes, and community - to come together and revel in the joy of this imaginative tradition.

If you're curious about how this enchanting celebration originated, you can check out the Gravity Falls Summerween episode here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-SNEwiG98SM Feel free to share the graphic I created for your own social media posts; let's keep the magic of Summerween alive and thriving in our communities!




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