Interview with Debbie of Soapylove
How did you get your start?
I started when I was pregnant with my son. I got really into handmade body products, then rediscovered glycerin soapmaking. It suits my need for instant results and creativity!
Neopolitan Soapsicle : $8.00
Do you have any formal training?
No. I just goofed around until I started figuring things out. I got a book once but it was pretty basic.
When and why did you create your business?
In February 2006 I launched a website, but then discovered Etsy which is where I did all of my business until just recently. Etsy was so much fun!
Has it changed at all since you began? How?
Oh my gosh - it’s always changing! I added a shopping cart to my own site a couple of months ago and pulled out of Etsy to try to simplify my life a bit. I’m a WAHM with 2 kids and the feverish pace of Etsy was not fitting in with my day! So now I blog and do more advertising than I used to.
Confetti Soapsicle : $8.00
What is the best part of running your own business?
Making my own hours for sure. And doing whatever I want! I was in the corporate apparel world for 10 years so I’m glad to be independent now.
and the worst?
The stress of not knowing how much profit I’ll be bringing home! Ugh!
You create so many wonderful pieces. Where does your inspiration come from?
I am inspired by many things, but mostly by images I find online and in magazines. I love fashion trends, interior design, the food network, and flickr!
Who is your favorite indie designer?
Oooooh…. tough question! Gosh, I can’t pick one. I love many designers for all different things they do. But here are a few: A Little Hut, Stoopid Girl, Pukashell Creative, Bird Nerd, Everyday is a Holiday, Kup Kup, My Paper Crane, Orange Peel Enamel, and Rik Rak Creations. There are many more! I hate to leave anyone out!
Nilla Sammie Soapsicle : $8.00
What was your most recent indie buy?
I got some awesome custom package tags letterpressed by Joie Studio for my new line called The Soap Lab. Her work really added the elegance I wanted!
What music/books/magazines are you into right now?
Domino Magazine. I love when I get a new one!!
What advice would you give to other designers that are just starting out?
Try lots of things when it comes to selling and advertising. The more you experiment, the more you’ll find the people who are really attracted to what you make. And follow your heart! Make what you love!
Candy Carousel Soapsicle : $8.00
Do you have any new projects on the horizon?
Yes, I’m writing a soapmaking tutorial book which will be published next fall, and I just launched The Soap Lab at www.thesoaplab.blogspot.com which will have my most progressive and innovative soap designs ever! Definitely different than my Soapylove Soapsicles - but don’t worry, I have lots of new styles coming up there, too!
