New Handmade Soap

In spite of the cold, Spring is just around the corner, and I have some new floral and fruit soaps planned.  I find that it is easier to think about soap than all the bad news out there, so I am planning, planning for this new year.  It is so exciting to move forward each day!  Only a few weeks into 2009, it already seems like an old friend.  Stay tuned…

New Labels

I read an article today about how color affects our thinking and what we associate with color. The article was specifically referencing labels. We have changed our label design and think it reflects exactly how we feel and hope others feel about our handmade soap. Using green evokes nature and the environment. We heartily agree!

Honeysuckle Blossoms

On a cold winter day, colder than any day I can remember, it is nice to use something floral scented in the bath to remind us that spring is around the corner.  Any flower would probably work, but try one that is close to your heart – I just remember tasting Honeysuckle in the summer and the pure, childish delight that I felt!

Liquid Handmade Soap is Fun!

Not to brag, but our liquid soap keeps getting better, or maybe we are bragging!  It is of a better consistency and feel than that first batch.  It is fun and easy to make, just time consuming!

Selling Soap

I try to put myself as the buyer when I present my soap.  What do I think about when I am ordering from a new website?  Usually, I am hesitant and maybe suspicious, wondering who I am buying from, will I receive what I am ordering and will it arrive in a timely manner.  Will it be worth what I am spending and will I even like it?  If I am feeling really like buying, I’ll push the button though.  They get one chance.

I may have blown a few chances in the past, but we all learn from our mistakes also.  I have been guilty of assuming that everyone will trust me who comes to my site.  But in a world that is not always trustworthy, that assumption is incorrect.  I have also been late getting orders out at times – my biggest hurdle lately.  I am told to look at this as a good problem, but I also do not think it builds trust.  People want what they want when they want it and are very used to getting it that way.  I can say that it is getting easier, but still can be an issue during busy times. 

So, what is the best way to market my soap (without spending a dime?), I ask myself.  Word of mouth – “Hey, did you hear about this soap?”  So, here are my principles in a nutshell that I believe contributes to the success of anyone, but especially me!

• Honesty is number one.  If I do not tell the truth, I am not trustworthy. 
• After honesty, I must stand behind my product, which is great, by the way!
• Consistency in quality and offerings.
• Knowing everything about what I do, forwards and backwards.
• Being open to suggestions, complaints and criticisms.
• Keeping my priorities straight – God, husband, family, business (Whew, that’s a tough one!)
• Treat others as I would have them treat me.
• Listen.
• Encourage.
• Do the best I can at all times.

So far, this is working.  If it stops, you’ll be the first to know.