Maker of the Month: The Snoblove Bar
I have been making soap for almost 12 years.Wow, it’s actually crazy to say that! I started while in cosmetology school, where I fell in love with the skincare coursework. I began, like most people do, making a more natural option for my family's various skin ailments, but gradually turned it into a business focused on pampering women, inspired by my muse, my mom.
What sets your products apart, what makes them unique?
I feel that what makes The SnobLove Bar unique is my unapologetically and obnoxiously pretty soaps, packaging, and presentation. I really try to make my customers feel special. I do a lot of hand-piped floral, gemstone, and romantic designs. My mother passed in 2014 unexpectedly, and she barely got to see my creativity bloom. She often saved her really pretty things for
special occasions and didn’t use them often. Life is so short and precious that we need to normalize enjoying it—using our pretty things that bring us joy.
You're a proud Black Small Business Owner, can you tell us a bit about your experience?
My grandmother, Louise McCauley Cooke, is a first cousin of Rosa Louise McCauley Parks, a key figure in the Civil Rights movement. Growing up, we had the honor of learning about the struggles of the past and the importance of strengthening our futures from one of the pioneers. That, in itself, is invaluable. The ability for me to do this as a Black woman, for
a vast spectrum of women without restrictions, and in representation of the enormous creativity of my culture is a gift and a blessing I do not take for granted.
What has been your biggest challenge to navigate as a small business owner?
My biggest challenge to navigate as a small business owner has definitely been the “juggle.” Finding the time to do all the things with just myself and, if I am lucky, occasional help from others throughout the year is challenging. No matter how much I plan, there is just never enough time in the day. I have had to learn to prioritize and be okay with not making 30 soaps, but instead only eight.
What is your favorite part of the creative process?
My favorite part of the creative process is, hands down, the physical making. I enjoy dreaming up a design board and theme, but there is nothing like just getting in there and getting lost in the process. I have
What other makers do you admire, and what do you like about their work?
There are so many amazing makers out there that I adore. I wish I could name them all. Bonita of Handmade by Bonita is so creative with soap dough. She makes the most intricate pieces that are whimsical and creative. Andrea of Motherland Essentials is another one who is so inspiring. She’s so authentic and vulnerable. That is an amazing gift to have when you are a creator. And
Kathy of Milked—her aesthetic, hands down, is absolutely gorgeous. Her brand is just so clean and classy.
What are your dreams for The Snoblove Bar? Where would you like to see your business in 5 or 10 years?
I'm really excited about the future of The Snoblove Bar! I want to get back into my own studio so I can hold in-person classes. I am also focused on getting my online classes up and running in the near future. I come from a retail background, so eventually opening my own store would be amazing!
What are three of your must-have Bramble Berry products, and why do you love them?
My must-have Bramble Berry products would be Pink Peony and Rose Quartz Fragrance Oils because they smell so good and are fabulous to work with. BTMS-50 is a game-changer in creating a luxurious feeling product, and the foaming bath butter is a must. If I don’t make it from scratch, then I'm ordering it from Bramble Berry! It’s easy to work with, of wonderful quality, and so versatile.
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