Maker of the Month: Suds and Sunsets Co.

Katie from Suds and Sunsets Co. is passionate about creating eco-friendly bars of soap for sensitive skin. Her vibrant designs are inspired by beautiful sunsets, desert landscapes, and life's simple pleasures. Meet Katie! 

How long have you been making soap, and how did you get started?

I started making soap in 2023, shortly after our son’s first birthday. He started to develop some minor skin conditions and the expensive products promising to have the secret formula weren’t helping. I made it my mommy-mission to do better and I fell down the rabbit hole of soapmaking. Actually, our whole lives changed after I started making soap!

What sets your products apart, what makes them unique?

II would have to say the biggest thing, at least for us, is to maintain our “leave no trace, zero-waste” agenda. Everything we do is ethical, eco-friendly, and sustainable. We strive with all of our products to be good for us and our planet while also maintaining a small town vibe.

Where do you find inspiration?

I find inspiration through our everyday life. We love sharing bits of our family with others. Connecting with our community is one of my most top priorities! I also get a lot of my inspiration from nature, particularly our river, desert landscapes, and of course, sunsets!

What has been your biggest challenge to navigate as a small business owner?

My biggest challenge I’m currently experiencing is not being able to make all the fun soaps I want. As of right now, I’m a one-woman show essentially running a young and thriving business from our kitchen! I have a beautiful community who takes such wonderful care of us, but I wish I could make enough soap for every hand in Lake Havasu (and beyond).

What is your favorite (and least favorite) part of the creative process?

Seeing people’s faces at our pop-ups and events! I love making fun soap and seeing it all come alive at a market! I know it sounds crazy, but I also really love doing the dishes. Pro-tip: I rinse as I go! And my least favorite thing? I would have to say activated charcoal and packaging” =

Are there other makers in the industry that have inspired you? What do you love about their work?

I LOVE Clover Soapworks. I really think him and I would be besties! I love how fun and natural his process looks even when he is literally telling you he’s panicking in the process. I also love Holy Grail Organics (she makes it look so easy and effortless), Mainland Vintage (she captures NYC perfectly), Sparta Candle Co. (obviously for Dwayne) and Ashley Marie Soap (so simple, stunning, and creative, all natural ingredients).

What advice would you give to fellow parents looking to start a small business from home?

Just do it! I know it seems scary, but you will feel it deep down when it is right. Being a mommy to me means being fully present with my family and kids, but also for myself! Suds and Sunsets Co. bought me time and gave me back my identity separate from being a mom. I truly believe ANYONE can do it!

What dreams do you have for your business moving forward?

I envision a groovy purple garage converted to a soapmaker’s dream laboratory designated for making so many soapies. And a big pink neon “Suds and Sunsets” sign! We also purchased a small horse trailer at the end of our first year of business with the intention of renovating it and taking it on the road! There’s more, but I can’t spoil all of my plans too soon.

What are your 3 must-have Bramble Berry fragrances?

Autumn Fig Harvest - I’m obsessed with this fragrance! It is so clean and holds strong while also being safe for us and our planet! We love transparency in our ingredients!
Oatmeal Milk and Honey - Such a staple to have in your arsenal of scents. I always keep it on hand because it sells like hot cakes.
Dark Velvet (Bramble Berry's YSL Black Opium Dupe) - YSL Opium and Black Opium are the only fragrances I wear because it screams luxury, classy, but sassy. This smells like the real deal!