Kimberly learned about soap making from Soap Queen, and was immediately hooked by the creative possibilities. She’s been making and selling bath and body products for several years now. Meet Kimberly!
How long have you been making bath and body products, and how did you get started? How long have you been selling your products?
For the past three years, I have been immersed in the artistry and science of making homemade soaps and skincare products. From the moment I watched the instructional videos from the Soap Queen, I have been captivated by the creative process of transforming simple ingredients into beautiful and functional skincare items. My ambition is to continually develop and refine my skills as a soap-maker to craft a range of products that are both aesthetically pleasing and beneficial to the skin. I have been selling my products online, in retail boutiques and at local markets and festivals for the past several years.
What do you love most about making bath and body products?
What I love most is the handmade experience because it is the ultimate expression of creativity, freedom, and individuality. It is a uniquely personal way of creating something truly special that no machine or store-bought item can replicate. With handmade bath and body products, you can experience a deep sense of satisfaction, knowing that you are the originator of your work and that is what I love most!
What inspires you to create?
I get inspiration from many things, such as the beauty of the ocean, my children, specific scents and other creators. However my biggest inspiration comes from my desire to bring others joy! There is something extra special about knowing that something you make has put a smile on someone else’s face and that they view your items as self care. This inspires me to continue to create and explore.
What advice would you give to someone who wanted to get started?
The best advice I would give is, do a lot of research on the practices of making soap (or whatever you are interested in), reach out to those whose style or creations speak to you and pick their brains, have lots of fun and lastly - JUST START! Knowledge is important, however putting your knowledge into action is the best way to learn.
Who’s another maker you admire? What do you love about their work?
This is actually a tough question to answer because I truly admire so many and have had the pleasure to really connect with several other soap makers and some who have already been Makers of the Month.
But I would pick 2. I admire Crystal from Elliot Reid Boutique, she’s super funny, positive and her work is creative and beautiful. And Michelle from Bombshell Creations Soapery because she is always open to questions, gives helpful advice and her work is impeccable. I am a total vibe kinda girl and they both give off the good vibe feeling.
Have you experienced a failure? How did you work through it, and what did you learn?
I think failure is an inevitable part of a (soap) maker's journey. It is something we all experience on the quest for growth and success. The ability to learn and grow from our mistakes, no matter how disappointing they may seem, is essential for progressing towards our goals. Learning to embrace failure and using it as a tool to try new things is an invaluable lesson. It can allow us to have the courage to take bigger risks and strive to be our best selves. We can always learn from our mistakes and become more open to new ideas and ways of thinking. But ultimately, laugh and go back to the drawing board, you’re still leaps ahead of those who haven’t even started!
What plans do you have for your business moving forward?
I have some lofty plans/goals for Coastside Creations. I am moving towards a more sustainable line of products in both packaging and use. I believe our responsibility to creating less waste will be an important one for our future. Also, I am working towards expanding into more retail spaces and cultivating more wholesale opportunities and collaborations.
What are your 4 must-have Bramble Berry products? Why are they your favorite?
I absolutely LOVE everything Bramble Berry so this feels like an impossible thing to pick just 4 must haves, but here is what quickly comes to mind.
Hyaluronic Acid Serum Base: If you are into making skincare or want to learn more about skincare, this is a great base to use.
Pink Peony Fragrance Oil: This fragrance is so soft and the best floral I’ve found. But nothing beats the fragrance oils from Bramble Berry, they are the best ones around.
Champagne Extract: I love this extract and use it in my whipped soaps, I feel it up levels my body care products.
Activated Charcoal: A must have for skincare or soap making projects.
What’s your favorite Bramble Berry project/What’s the first project you tried?
The first project I tried was the Galaxy Bath Bomb Kit and it literally got me hooked on making bath bombs. I never realized it could be that easy, simple and fun. Plus the hand painting just did it for me! However, my favorite Bramble Berry project would be any of the skincare projects. I am always making the Charcoal Facial Soap Kit, as they are a staple in my online shop and being a skincare lover, I was thrilled when all the new skincare kits came about. The most recent one I have tried was the Green Tea Hyaluronic Serum Kit. It’s a winner!
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