By David Leddy on February 2, 2023
“The range of products; quality scents and price are bar none! Highly recommend shopping experience, Ash Bay Soap Co. never disappoints!” – Fuller Management Corporation
When it comes to beautiful and healthy skincare, it’s easy to get caught up in the hype of the latest trends and ingredients. But what if you could go back to the basics, using only all-natural, organic ingredients that are gentle on and beneficial to your skin and the environment?
That’s the philosophy behind Ash Bay Soap Co, a small business that specializes in handmade artisan soaps in 10 different categories, skincare from creams to oils and bath accessories. I had the opportunity to do a quick interview with Cathleen Cleveland, the owner and founder of Ash Bay Soap Co, to learn more about her passion for natural and healthy skincare and the story behind her business.
What products and service(s) do you provide?
“I provide artisan soaps in 10 different categories, skincare from creams to oils and bath accessories. All our products are natural and eco-friendly.”
What’s the main problem you solve for your customers?
“Being able to provide products that work for my customers’ specific skin needs. We are geared towards problematic skin types. However, our product is good for everyone.”
What service area do you cover?
“We are worldwide via our website and have a retail brick-and-mortar shop in Long Beach, CA.”
What is your ideal customer persona?
“Individuals with sensitive skin or specific skin concerns, such as eczema or acne, who are looking for gentle and non-irritating skincare products, health-conscious consumers interested in using natural, organic and eco-friendly products. Or, consumers looking for unique and high-quality products by small independent artisans can find what they’re looking for at Ash Bay Soap Co.
Our wide selection of artisan soaps, oils and skincare products cover just about every need, expectation and goal of everyone who walks in our door and/or shops online via our website.”
What sets you apart from the competition? In other words, why would people reading this be inclined to choose Ash Bay Soap Company over a competitor?
“We are all-natural and eco-friendly. We offer 10 categories of soaps and over 200 scents. We offer custom orders whether it is soap or skincare. For example, skincare we can do with no dyes or colorants and no scent.”
Why did you go into this business? Is there a special story behind it?
“I personally have skin issues that pushed me in this direction 16 years ago. I started in New Mexico and started selling my soaps to friends and family.
I tried out a couple of local markets. However, it didn’t work out too well. I continued for about two years in New Mexico then moved to Helena Montana where my soaps took off. I was doing Farmers’ Markets for many years while still working full time. My products were taking off. I was selling to co-workers at first in grocery stores, mom-and-pop stores, salons, etc.
The business was expanding and growing very well. I was then offered an opportunity to work for the government. I accepted the offer and put the soap business aside. I did this for about three and half years and decided I did not need the stress. By this time, I had relocated to Los Angeles, CA.
I was working full time while working towards starting my soap company again. Then the pandemic hit. I was selling my soap out of the home and through the website when I was told by the state I was not allowed to sell my soap unless it was in a brick-and-mortar. Regardless, it was an essential product. So I then started the process of building capital and finding a location. I ended up in Long Beach, CA. I have been operating my store now for one and half years and I have never been happier.”
What is the most significant and/or memorable event that ever happened to you, personal and/or business related?
“I was given the opportunity to be a sponsor with the Next Generation Indie Film Awards. I donate Ash Bay Soap products for approximately 200 swag bags.”
If you could share one tip with the readers for choosing Ash Bay Soaps, what would it be?
“Using Ash Bay Soap Co soaps should be part of your daily self-care routine. Nothing is more important than your health.”
Any additional comments?
“I just wanted to say thank you for this opportunity. If there is anything else I can help with please let me know.”
Thank you also Cathleen for sharing your story and insight into the world of natural and healthy skincare!
So, if you’re looking for high-quality, all-natural skin care products, be sure to check out Ash Bay Soap Co. Not only will you be treating your skin to the best that nature has to offer, but you will also be supporting a local business that is dedicated to using sustainable practices. Reach out to Cathleen Cleveland today at: ashbaysoap@gmail.com and/or visit the company’s website at: https://ashbaysoapco.com. Connect on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/ashbaysoaps/
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