You always see an “About Us” button on websites, but in my case it’s really about me. With the exception of my husband who creates the soap decks and wick dippers, I am it. From making the products by hand, to creating and cutting the labels, to putting orders together and shipping them to your door, I am it. I’m a small business (a cottage industry actually), and love what I do. I am proud to offer quality, hand crafted products from my cottage to your door.
The Story
It all started years ago when I received a birthday gift containing handmade soap. I remember thinking “Wow – this is nice” as I had never really tried anything like it. Soap was something you bought at the supermarket. Well I tried it and I was astounded. I had never felt anything so soft and creamy on my skin before. The smell was incredible (I think it was Orange Cinnamon) and I was instantly hooked. After some time, I decided I wanted to learn how to make soap, so I hired a soapmaker to teach me the basics and I have never looked back! Handmade soap is so luxuriously different from store bought bars and I soon realized all the benefits of using this handcrafted product. My skin had become softer than it had ever been and I never seemed to need moisturizer anymore. I was so excited about my newfound passion, that I started giving soap to all my friends and family to try. Also, it came in really handy as a hostess gift when staying at someone’s place for the weekend. Or to have on hand for a last minute gift. The accolades started pouring in as it seemed I was not the only one who enjoyed the benefits of this amazing soap. I mean really, who wouldn’t like a handmade product that evokes a spa-like, blissful experience? When a friend suggested that I start selling my soap, I thought about and thought it was a great idea! I signed up for local craft fairs and the rest they say is history.
The Start of the Cottage Industry
We moved to Royston BC (in the heart of the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island) in the spring of 2006. It is a rural community, with locals selling eggs and veggies at the end of their driveways. My husband suggested we put a stand at the end of our driveway and sell soap. I said, “You’re crazy! – who would want to buy soap from a stand?” Well, he built the cutest little replica of our cedar shake cottage and before I knew it “Michelle’s Soap Bar” was up and running. It surpassed my wildest dreams (in terms of visits) and I had no idea how rewarding the whole experience would be. We were welcomed whole-heartedly into our new community. People drive by when I am in the garden and yell “I love your soap”! It puts a smile on my face.
Over the years “Michelle’s Soap Bar” has turned into a bit of a “Tourist Destination” with locals bringing their friends and family from out of town to visit the unique stand. I have had people from as far away as Japan at the end of my driveway!
In 2009, we added an out-building on our property with my very own studio. “Royston Soap Works” was born and in addition to making soap, I have added Soy Candles to the line up. I am very excited to be making these wonderfully eco-friendly candles as they go hand in hand with the pureness of my handmade soap.
As we all become more aware of so many harsh chemicals and toxins in our immediate surroundings, I am proud to offer products that will not harm or pollute the air or our bodies.
Thank you for browsing my site and if you are ever in the area, please stop by the Soap Bar! It’s open everyday from May 1st to the end of October (except when its really raining).
