Stella Marie Soap Company Blog

5th Annual Valentine's Day Soap Drive for Rosie's Place

2012-01-15T10:31:00.000-08:00

It's time once again for our Annual Soap Drive for Rosie's Place. For the past 4 years, I have collected soap, bath and body products for this Boston-based women's shelter. If you would like to donate, please email me and I will send you the details (kim@stellamariesoap.com). No contribution is too big or small. Please make sure that your donations are wrapped and if you are sending body scrubs/moisturizers, they MUST be sealed. Everyone is welcome to donate!

The drive begins today and ends on February 13th. I will be hand-delivering the boxes on February 14th.

I think that all women should feel special on Valentine's Day, including the brave women at Rosie's Place.

Yours in Peace, Love and Cleanliness,
Kim Gonzaga

;)

Our Holiday Collection Is Now Available!

2011-11-03T20:20:00.000-07:00

Holiday Soap 3-Pack • Home for the Holidays Soap • Sugar Plum Fairy Soap • Winter Ice Soap

Process Switch

2011-10-13T08:32:00.001-07:00

In order to improve efficiencies, I will need to change my process from CPHP (Crock Pot Hot Process) to CP (Cold Process). I feel a bit as though I am betraying this process I have so strongly identified with for so long, but there are limits to the volume you can produce, even with 6 crock pots going at once.

So, yesterday, I took the plunge. I made my first batch of CP. I used Soap Craft, my multi-color African Rain soap, for the experiment. I was pleased with the results, though I must learn to master the swirl on top that makes CP soap so appealing. Raw soap sets up faster than I thought, and by the time I had finished dyeing the other layers, the top layer, which is natural, was starting to become like custard. I will get that pretty swirl in my next batch!

For now, here are some pictures:

Soap Craft (African Rain) | Cold Process Method

CPHP (left) vs CP (right)

Shimmery

2011-10-06T14:15:00.001-07:00

Home for the Holidays | Holiday Collection 2011

I am SO excited about this month's soap! Think: clementine, clove and cinnamon with shimmer on top! It was dyed with Bramble Berry Lab Colors Yellow & Orange + Cocoa Powder. Home for the Holidays will be available through the end of December. Beginning next month, it will be joined by two other limited editions. Stay tuned!

Pairing Up with Friends | Post 4

2011-09-20T18:14:00.000-07:00

Have you ever met someone and felt like you had been friends forever? This was the case when I met Jennifer Adler, the genius behind Survival By Design, a super fun line of greeting cards, produced right in my own little state. Her spunky, fun, sarcastic and super rad spirit is channeled in all of her designs. I chose a purple and green theme for this pairing. Check out her FABULOUS selection here or at your local Target store!

Pairing Up with Friends | Post 3

2011-09-08T06:20:00.001-07:00

I {heart} Shara Porter's work! Her unique and playful designs transform her vintage findings. I am currently sporting one of her super red handbags with this very image.

This pairing is tied together with a whimsical bee.

Dragon's Blood Soap in Progress

2011-09-08T06:11:00.000-07:00

Here is a pic of this month's featured soap in progress. The red oxide gave the raw soap a beautiful rusty red color - exactly what I was going for! Once the soap cooked and hardened, though, it became a muted red/pink/brown. Not bad, but not what I had in mind. By adding a red shimmer to the top, the design has a bit more depth.

This soap, along with a couple of other fall treats, is now available in our online store.

Pairing Up with Friends | Post 2

2011-09-07T06:00:00.000-07:00

My friend and owner of Lucky Bird Studio, Kim Clark, makes the jazziest, happiest resin jewelry evah! Check out her delightful line here!

For this pairing, I went with a pale pink as a theme.

Pairing Up with Friends | Post 1

2011-09-05T17:19:00.001-07:00

I have a lot of talented friends. My fellow artists create some of the most gorgeous, original works I have ever seen. And sometimes, I see something and think: I have a soap that matches that piece perfectly! Thus, I decided it would be fun to do some pairings of my soaps with the beautiful things that my friends have made.

First up, my studio mate and good friend, Kim O'Brien of k.o'brien jewelry. I selected two pieces from each of our collections sharing a pretty olive green. If you want to visit Kim's awesome shop, check it out here ;)

Block Island Art Festival

2011-08-11T10:34:00.000-07:00

Block Island Art Festival | August 6, 2011

We were lucky enough to be invited to participate in this year's Block Island Art Festival. This popular summer destination is dreamy, especially if you enjoy spending time on the beach. Steven Wright, who frequents the island, made an appearance at our show! Big thanks to all the folks who stopped by and picked up some goodies from our booth!

Pups and Babes

2011-08-01T11:04:00.001-07:00

Providence Open Market | July 30, 2011

One of my favorite things about working my weekly outdoor markets is getting to see and pet all of the super cute doggies that come strolling through. Little babies are also a treat, especially when they are wearing some of the pretty handmade items my fellow artists create and sell.

2 New Retailers

2011-07-29T11:38:00.000-07:00

We are excited to announce that our products can now be found in 2 new locations! Our fun soap cupcakes are available at The Purple Cow, a super fab gift shop in Wakefield, Rhode Island. And our luscious massage bars are now on sale at WhyEverNot, a unique boutique in Mystic, Connecticut.

The Purple Cow

205 Main Street | Wakefield, RI

WhyEverNot
17 West Main Street | Mystic, CT

ArtBeat 2011

2011-07-18T13:15:00.000-07:00

ArtBeat, July 16, 2011 | Davis Square, Somerville, MA

We had the pleasure of vending at another wildly successful ArtBeat! It is always a wonderful time to reconnect with the city where our little company was created! Thank you for never disappointing us, Somerville!

Summer Blues

2011-07-01T18:59:00.001-07:00

Guest Soap

2011-06-24T08:29:00.000-07:00

Bristol House Bed & Breakfast, Bristol, RI

100 Guest Soaps Scented in Oatmeal, Milk & Honey

We are very pleased to partner with Bristol House Bed & Breakfast in Bristol, Rhode Island. This is a VERY sweet Inn with a wonderful location. The Innkeeper is vibrant and cheery, too.

Big News!

2011-06-22T14:11:00.000-07:00

We are proud to offer flat rate shipping on every single order from our store! Just five bucks every time - no matter where it's going or how much it weighs.

Hello, Summer!

2011-06-08T18:47:00.000-07:00

All three soaps are now available in our online store!

We Love Providence!

2011-06-06T07:27:00.000-07:00

Providence Art Festival | June 4, 2011

This is one of our favorite shows of the year and Saturday did not disappoint one bit! The weather was superb, the crowds were happy and plentiful and the entertainment was great! Thank you, Providence, for another successful show!

Tropical Vacation

2011-06-03T18:32:00.001-07:00

Here Comes Your Soap, our sparkly kiwi soap, is sweet and juicy as can be.

If coconut is what you crave, take a trip to Rockaway Beach - we've even sprinkled the top with shredded coconut!

Mango lovers, check out Big Poppy! Poppy seeds help you slough away dead skin while offering a deliciously fruity fragrance!

A Happy and Delicious Accident

2011-05-27T13:16:00.001-07:00

Sometimes I flake out while I am working, especially if I am making several soap varieties at once. Yesterday, I meant to make a batch of Java Lava, a lovely mocha soap, but after I blended the cocoa powder into the raw soap, I quickly realized that I was out of that fragrance. What to do, what to do? I had to tap into the creative side of my brain and come up with something ... fast! I decided to make a Bundt cake soap, lightening part of the soap after the cook for a creamy feel and scenting it with a chocolaty Irish Cream. The result? One of my best pieces! I will definitely need to put a caution label on these soaps during my weekend market.

Summer! Fun! Beer! Soap!

2011-05-26T11:55:00.000-07:00

I'm not much of a beer drinker, but I love me a cold beer on a hot day. And I love beer in the shower - beer soap, that is! Last Call, is formulated with local favorite, Narragansett Lager and a fresh, lemony fragrance. The hops in the beer are quite good for your skin, too!

You can read more about our beer soap in the Boston Herald and on GoLocal Prov and hear about it on Boston's local radio station, WROR! You can even read about it on Narragansett Brewing Company's web site!

Yay, beer! Yay, soap!

Fruit Bowl

2011-05-24T09:31:00.001-07:00

The Bad Seed is our wicked little shower companion. Sweet, red delicious apple fragrance and crushed apricot seeds for gentle exfoliation.

Clockwork Orange, a emits a lovely, light citrus aroma.

A little fruity and a little floral, Grapefruit Moon is a perfect girly girl soap.

Manly Pampering

2011-05-23T14:22:00.000-07:00

Dude, Where's My Soap? Right here! Ocean, Sea Moss & Vetivert combine to give him a fresh, clean shower.

Our honey and eucalyptus shaving soap, Killer Queen, will give him a little zing in the morning.

If your guy enjoys his beer, then he won't want to miss it in the shower, either! Last Call is made with Narragansett Lager and smells like a summer ale with a zesty lemon wedge.

Hester Street Fair

2011-05-16T09:22:00.000-07:00

Hester Street Fair | May 14, 2011

We had a great time on Saturday in New York City! We will be back again this Saturday to sell more soapy treats, so if you live in the NYC area, please stop by the Hester Street Fair and say hello! We can totally vouch for all of the wonderful food and drink at this market, too!

Herbalicious!

2011-05-16T06:24:00.001-07:00

Crisp and clean, Cucumber Slumber invites you to take the spa into your bath.

Rosemary's Baby combines the fragrant sprigs of rosemary with sweet leaves of peppermint.

Tempest is like a basket full of fresh cut spearmint!

Valley Breeze, Makes Me Feel Fine

2011-05-11T18:53:00.000-07:00

A very special thanks to The Valley Breeze for a sweet feature in this week's issue!

A Soapy Bouquet

2011-05-11T18:47:00.000-07:00

Spring has sprung, and so have many fragrant blossoms! This sweet grouping is the first in our suggested combination series.

Lalka, our wisteria soap, emits the aroma of the lush grape-like clusters that dangle in such abundance in the spring.

Mother Love Bar, featured item this month, captures the intoxicating perfume of fresh lilacs.

La-TEA-fah, a delight in tea rose, will transform your shower into a romantic English garden.

This bouquet of soaps in only available at stellamariesoap.com!

Spring Around the Rosie

2011-05-03T07:15:00.000-07:00

Photo: Carolyn Kraut | SOWA Market May 1, 2011

Thank you to the Boston Examiner for featuring Stella Marie in their article about SOWA Market Opening Day! That was a sweet surprise!

FEATURED SOAP
Delight Mom with the sweetness of fresh lilacs! Dried hibiscus flowers top this gorgeous lavender blue soap. Just like the flower, these soaps won't be around long, so get them while they last!

NYC BOUND
For 2 dates only, we will be selling our sudsy wares in New York City! May 14th and 21st! If you live in the NYC area, definitely come by and visit!
Hester Street Fair

May 14, 21
10 AM - 6 PM
[Map and subway line info.]

Easy as Punch!

2011-04-20T09:23:00.001-07:00

This season, we are rolling out the Punch Card! When you purchase 9 soaps, you get the 10th one free! This offer is only valid at in-booth sales, so you've got to visit us at one of our weekly markets or events to get your card punched and redeem it for free soap! Open market season starts on May 1st and we can hardly wait! See you there!

A Few Spring Updates

2011-04-12T08:50:00.001-07:00

Craftopia Spring Show | April 10, 2011

Stella Marie's first spring show was a great success (that's us on the right, with the polka-dotted table linens)! Along with 2 other crafty friends, I help organize Craftopia, a super duper day of original art, craft, music and food. We put on three shows per year in Pawtucket, Rhode Island (1 spring, 2 holiday) and so far, each show has been better than the last. I am fortunate to be able to work with wonderful ladies and we always have great fun organizing the show, despite the amount of work involved. We are able to attract amazing local artisans and we are truly grateful for our talented applicants and the customers who come in throngs. If you are interested in learning more about our events, follow us on Facebook or check our our blog!

Our soap of the month for April is a fresh, sweet treat! We invite you to celebrate spring with Mouthwatering Melon Madness! April's Featured Item, Caught in a Wash, offers up a clean fruity fragrance and bold orange and blue stripes!

We are also placing 2 of our March soaps on sale in order to clear the decks for more featured items. You can now get our yummy Irish Cream soap and our Fresh Cut Grass soap for the low, low price of $3 each! Quantities are very limited, so you've got to act fast!

Our spring soapmaking workshop is officially scheduled! It will be held on May 28th, from noon to 4PM. Click here for all the details!
Be there or be without soapmaking skills.

Starting this spring, selected varieties of our soaps will be available at Whole Foods Markets in the Providence area! Be on the lookout for us, starting at the Cranston location in Garden City Shopping Plaza. We will send updates as locations are added.

Life is a Bowl of Cherries!

2011-04-04T09:33:00.000-07:00

Every year, we roll out a new theme. It's usually reflected in our booth decor and packaging. We like to keep things fresh and new each year and this year is no exception. So, what is this year's theme, you ask? CHERRIES!

Why cherries? Well, why not? Cherries symbolize sweetness and purity and we like to think that our soaps fall into this category, as well. Cherries make us happy! And we hope that by adopting this symbol, we will embody this happiness and joy, too. So, keep you eyes peeled and noses on alert for a few cherry-inspired products this year.

2011 Event Calendar

2011-03-02T05:51:00.001-08:00

We've started our 2011 event calendar! You can see it in the right column navigation of this blog.

Please check back frequently because we do add events as the year moves along and there are already lots of new show applications in the works.

We are very excited to be a season-long vendor at both the SOWA Open Market in Boston, MA (Sundays) and right here at the Providence Open Market (Saturdays). We have some special promotions planned for these markets, so I hope to see you there this summer. We also have a few new booth additions, so stay tuned!

Stella Marie is Now Offering Soapmaking Classes!

2011-01-21T14:23:00.000-08:00

Hey, Daddy-O, it's time to channel YOUR inner Fight Club!

Stella Marie is now offering Soapmaking Classes! That's right, we invite you to learn one of the oldest crafts in the world, in our studio space in Pawtucket, Rhode Island!

Making your own soap is a satisfying experience and we are so very pleased to add instruction to our offerings!

Check out our site for all the details!

4th Annual Valentine's Day Soap Drive for Rosie's Place

2011-01-17T13:08:00.000-08:00

It's time once again for the Annual Soap Drive for Rosie's Place. For the past 3 years, I have collected soap, bath and body products for this Boston-based women's shelter. If you would like to donate, please email me and I will send you the details (kim@stellamariesoap.com). No contribution is too big or small. Please make sure that your donations are wrapped and if you are sending body scrubs/moisturizers, they MUST be sealed. Everyone is welcome to donate!

The drive begins today and ends on February 12th. I will be hand-delivering the boxes on February 13th.

I think that all women should feel special on Valentine's Day, including the brave women at Rosie's Place.

Yours in Peace and Soap,
Kim Gonzaga

Rhody Craft 100 Opens!

2010-11-06T09:59:00.000-07:00

Hope Artiste Village's super crafty pop-up shop is open for for another season! Be sure to visit on Wednesday evenings from 4PM to 7PM and Saturdays from 10AM to 2PM to stock up on local handmade goodness!

1005 Main Street
Pawtucket, RI

Our Holiday Soaps Made in the November Issue of Providence Monthly!

2010-10-28T05:12:00.000-07:00

Huge thanks to the staff! I (heart) you guys!

Stella Marie now in Brooklyn

2010-10-06T13:16:00.000-07:00

Attention NYC! Our soaps are now available at Root Stock and Quade in Brooklyn! This is a wonderful shop located in Brooklyn’s Clinton Hill neighborhood. Drop on by and check out their amazing floral delights and gifts!

Root Stock & Quade
471 Myrtle Avenue
Brooklyn, New York 11205

Our Seasonal Soaps are Now Ready!

2010-10-01T10:21:00.001-07:00

Available on our web site this afternoon ....

October ~ Smash (pumpkin pie)
November ~ Crantini (cranberry spice)
December ~ Snap! (gingerbread)

Cupcake Soap Now Available in Our Online Store!

2010-09-05T06:31:00.000-07:00

Now available for custom ordering in our online store! Freshly made upon order, you can select from a Baker's Dozen, 18 or 24! All priced to yield 1 free cupcake :)

New Digs!

2010-08-30T08:09:00.000-07:00

We are moving our workshop to a new space in Pawtucket, Rhode Island!

Starting September 3rd, our official new headquarters will be at 560 Mineral Spring Avenue. More details to follow (and pictures, too!). Very exciting!

Root Beer Float Soap

2010-07-30T19:19:00.000-07:00

As we've said, our Root Beer Float soap will be making a one-time appearance on Saturday night. Thought you might want to see a few pics. The root beer scent is so unbelievably sweet and caramely and effervescent. Quite heavenly, indeed.

This Weekend!

2010-07-30T08:13:00.000-07:00

We will be at the Indie Arts Fest in Kennedy Plaza (Providence, RI). This should be a very fun event, filled with live entertainment, amazing local vendors and yummy treats!

Saturday, Noon-6PM.
But wait, there's more!

Promptly following the Inde Arts Fest, we will be whisking our wares to A Salute to Bettie Page at the German Club in Pawtucket (event starts at 8PM)! We will be offering ONE TIME ONLY root beer float soap in honor of Miss Page, as it was her absolute favorite beverage.

On Sunday, you can find us at the SOWA Open Market in Boston from 10AM - 4PM (Between Harrison Avenue and Albany Streets).

Best of RI Winners!

2010-07-29T08:49:00.000-07:00

Big news! Every year, Rhode Island Monthly Magazine present the Best of Rhode Island awards and this year, Stella Marie won a 2010 Editor's Pick fin the category of Homespun Beauty Product! We are over the moon! Thank you, Rhody!

This Weekend's Soap Cupcakes!

2010-07-23T14:12:00.000-07:00

Catch us at the Barrington Farmer's Market (Saturday, 9AM - 1PM)), the SOWA Open Market (Sunday, 10AM - 4PM)) and the East Greenwich Farmer's Market (Monday, 3PM - 6PM)!

'Gansett Soap Update

2010-07-22T11:50:00.000-07:00

The fine folks at Narragansett Brewing Company will be distributing our beer soap through their online shop! We love the local synergy!

ArtBeat 2010

2010-07-16T15:06:00.000-07:00

Join us in Somerville, MA tomorrow for the annual ArtBeat Festival! This is our third year participating and we could be more excited!

David Square
Somerville, MA
11AM - 6 PM

Last Call!

2010-07-02T08:27:00.000-07:00

This month, we've taken our favorite local brew and formulated a soap with it! Narragansett Lager tastes great and it does great things for your skin! The hops herb is known to promote relaxation and used topically, it soothes and softens skin. A punchy lemon fragrance and lemon zest make this soap a real summer treat!

You Talk, We Listen.

2010-06-23T09:49:00.000-07:00

We love our customers and we truly do listen to all of you. We depend on you to improve our line and make a better product by incorporating your ideas and feedback. Would you mind taking a few minutes to take a quick survey? It is our goal to constantly offer the best products and service we can! Thanks, guys!

You can access the survey here.

June's Featured Soap!

2010-05-28T11:17:00.001-07:00

The temps are on the rise and so is our thirst for refreshment. Bring the power of watermelon, cantaloupe and honeydew into your shower this month with our new fruity beauty, Twisting My Melon! Hydrate your skin and tease your senses with this sweet bath treat!

Providence Open Market & New Bath Confections!

2010-05-21T13:01:00.000-07:00

We will be showcasing some new treats at the Providence Open Market tomorrow!

This is a variation on our bath bombs. We've actually used a similar treatment a couple of years ago, but we've added the label this time and are using a Hoodsie-style cup rather than a cupcake liner. This is a very summery-style. Flavors for the weekend are lemon, cherry, cotton candy & lime!

Soap cupcakes for this weekend's markets are citrus splash, raspberry, wisteria and ginger verbena!

Attention Providence Fans!

2010-05-19T07:09:00.000-07:00

We are so excited about the first Providence Open Market of the season that we have created an in-booth coupon! When you purchase once of our polishing salt or sugar body scrubs, you receive a free lemon lip balm - what a way to kick start the summery months ahead!

Come see us on May 22nd, from 10 AM - 4 PM
Lippitt Park
Hope St. & Blackstone Blvd.
Providence, RI

You must present this coupon in order to take advantage of the deal.
Offer valid while supplies last.

SOWA Kick Off

2010-05-11T12:45:00.000-07:00

This weekend is the SOWA Open Market kick off! Woot, woot! Catch us every Sunday at the market - through the end of October. This market never disappoints.

460 Harrison Avenue
Boston, MA
10 AM - 4PM

Busy! Busy! Busy!

2010-05-10T11:18:00.000-07:00

Hope you all had a great Mother's Day! I had a very pleasant day with my mom and my grandmother. My cats bought me nothing. As usual.

Ok, onto the soapiness ...

First up, you can now find our cute cupcake soaps at The Cupcakerie in Cranston, Rhode Island! They make the best REAL cupcakes and now they have added some novelty cupcake items to their shop. Check them out sometime!

The Cupcakerie
1860 Broad Street
Cranston, RI

Also, our soaps are now available through Rooted Radiance, our latest e-tailer. We are really excited to add these folks to the Stella Marie retail family :)

Our Ocean State soap is currently featured in the May issue of Rhode Island Monthly. You can see the article here!

Since we are such fans of supporting our local peeps, we are now using coffee beans from New Harvest Coffee Roasters of Pawtucket, RI in our Java Lava soap. Their coffee is certified organic and Fair Trade.

Please check out our spring and summer schedule, now updated to the right. We are all booked up and ready to rock the outdoor markets ... and your bath tubs!

Speaking of summer and rocking your bath tubs, we are planning on launching some amazing soaps in the very near future. Be on the lookout for a beer soap (using Narragansett, because they are our neighbors, of course!) and key lime pie soap. The hops in beer provide great moisturing benefits for your skin.

Wicked Big Sale!

2010-04-21T13:31:00.001-07:00

We are kicking off our biggest sale ever tomorrow! For just 2 days, you can save 25% on your entire purchase! Whether you want to grab something pampery for your mom or stock up on soapy goodness, there has never been a better time. Enter coupon code: 25_Percent_Off. Remember - this sale lasts only 2 days!

Selected!

2010-04-15T17:51:00.000-07:00

We are so excited to announce that we were chosen as a BEST OF 2010 Editor's Pick in the Providence Phoenix Reader's Poll in the shopping category! Thank you, Providence! You rule!

Lots of Updating!

2010-04-15T09:14:00.000-07:00

First of all, I would like to welcome another fabulous retailer to the Stella Marie fam - Bolla Soaps! Slated to open in May, Bolla Soaps will be a welcome addition to the strip of fine shops on Main Street in Nashua, New Hampshire! The shopkeeper is also a soapmaker and will be adding her wonderful saponified creations to her inventory.

If you are in the area, please check them out. Warning: The scents in the store are pretty irresistible. You might find yourself walking out with bags and bags of soapy goodness.

Bolla Soaps
111 Main Street
Nashua, NH

Next up, as an event planner for Rhody Craft 100, I am pleased to announce that our first ever event, CRAFTOPIA, was a huge success! We are planning a follow-up event for the holiday season, so please stay tuned for details on that.

The spring and summer event calendar has been posted on our website. We are doing a new farmer's market this year in East Greenwich. I am super excited about this and can't wait to participate. As always, I will be selling soap alongside Rhode Island's finest local producers. The event calendar is pretty booked up, but there may be some new additions as the season moves on, so check in frequently.

We are having a HUGE online sale next week, in honor of Mother's Day. Details to follow in the next few days. We will also be debuting a new soap - one that mom will totally dig (there is a hint in that phrase!).

Last, but not least, we will be featured in the May issue of Rhode Island Monthly. They are running a piece on local Etsy sellers and they chose our Ocean State soap for the article. Yay, Rhody!

New Retailer

2010-03-25T06:00:00.001-07:00

Stella Marie welcomes Duchess, a lovely boutique in Newton Centre (MA) to our list of retailers!

Location:
77 Union Street
Newton, MA 02459
617.964.0054

Soap Porn

2010-03-14T15:18:00.001-07:00

I've been getting some 2010 show applications together and decided to update our entry photos a bit. Enjoy our glammy new pics!

March Soap of the Month

2010-03-14T07:25:00.000-07:00

La-TEA-Fah!
Why do we love Queen Latifah so? Not only is she beautiful and talented, but she enjoys fame on her terms. She embraces her curves instead of starving herself to attain an unhealthy ideal. Her confidence and attitude make her a perfect role model. We honor her with a sophisticated, lovely tea rose soap. Thank you, Queen Latifah, for being so fabulous ... and Happy 40th Birthday!

Lights, Camera, Soap!
And if you want to check out our television appearance on FOX/Providence's The Rhode Show, click here!

Stella Marie on TV!

2010-02-22T19:21:00.000-08:00

I am so proud and excited to announce that Stella Marie will be a featured guest on The Rhode Show, the local Providence morning show on WPRI/Fox. The segment is scheduled to air on March 10th between 8:30 and 9:30 AM.

Stay tuned for more details!

Rosie's Place Soap Donations

2010-02-14T15:15:00.000-08:00

Today, I dropped off lots of donated soap to Rosie's Place in Boston. I got a little help from Helene Matteson of My Urban Kitchen and Kim Rossley Nunnari of Aura Soap - both ladies donated their lovely handmade soaps, too!

[Me, standing outside the shelter]

[Helene, of My Urban Kitchen, holding one of her beautiful soaps]

[Boxes of soap, waiting in my workshop]

[Pretty Aura Soaps and a few bath accessories]

[Some of my soaps]

[A few more of my soaps]

The Providence Monthly

2010-01-28T12:32:00.001-08:00

Hot diggity dog! Stella Marie made it into the February issue of The Providence Monthly!

Mighty Mighty Excited!

2010-01-28T08:10:00.000-08:00

Absolutely amazing! This was a HUGE hit and the guys loved it! Smells phenomenal too. Thank you SO much!

It's always nice to get positive feedback, but when it comes from the person who purchased my soaps for the Bosstones, it's a different kind of giddy! Thanks for choosing little ole me for your gift to the guys!

Happy Traveling Soap

2010-01-22T13:21:00.000-08:00

Just saw that one of my clove soap cupcakes from the SOWA Holiday Show made its way down to NYC. Little, unexpected stories like this always make me smile :)

3rd Annual Valentine's Day Soap Drive for Rosie's Place

2010-01-18T09:27:00.000-08:00

It's time once again for the Annual Soap Drive for Rosie's Place. For the past 2 years, I have collected soap, bath and body products for this Boston-based women's shelter. If you would like to donate, please email me and I will send you the details. No contribution is too big or small. Please make sure that your donations are wrapped and if you are sending body scrubs/moisturizers, they MUST be sealed.

Last year, some of you wanted to donate Stella Marie products. If you are interested in going this route, simply enter the coupon code: free_shipping. Indicate in the notes section that this is a donation for Rosie's Place and I will send you a special coupon worth $5 off your next Stella Marie purchase.

Speaking of donations, please know that Clean the World, an organization that ships soap to people in need, is now accepting soap donations for the earthquake victims in Haiti.

Things are Heating Up!

2010-01-16T13:33:00.001-08:00

Our online store is fully stocked for Valentine's Day!

You can't miss with The Little Pink Box: Triple X Soap (Strawberries & Champagne), Chocolate Mint Lip Balm, Pink Sugar Heart-Shaped Bath Bomb and a yummy Chocolate Mint Massage Bar. Oo, la, la!

For the gents, we bring you Dude, Where's My Soap? - It's fresh, clean and totally manly.

Don't forget - we also carry Stella Marie Gift Certificates in four denominations - one for every budget.

Want to share a Stella Marie wish list with your sweetie? It's super easy! Every product in our online store now has a Kaboodle button. If you WANT, all you have to do is CLICK.

Valentine's Day Soap Cupcakes

2010-01-08T13:38:00.000-08:00

These beauties will be available at Rhody Craft 100 on Saturday. The purple ones are wisteria and the pink ones are cherry coke. I've had a cola fragrance for a long time and never could think of the right time to use it. I also had a little cherry fragrance left from the summer. Viola!

In other news, I just dropped off a bunch of soaps to The Providence Monthly.

They are doing a full page product shot with a couple of paragraphs about Stella Marie for the February issue. So excited!

Cabin Fever Indie Gift Show

2010-01-06T07:37:00.001-08:00

Mark your calendars - Stella Marie will be at the 1st annual Cabin Fever Gift Show!

Friday, February 5th, 6 PM - 9 PM
Saturday, February 6th, 11 AM - 7 PM

460C Harrison Avenue
Boston, MA

January 2010 New Featured Item

2010-01-05T12:42:00.000-08:00

While winter continues to frost our windows, Stella Marie is thinking warm thoughts. Introducing The House Warmer - four distinctive soaps for the new homeowners in your life!

Just $25!

Holiday Hours

2009-12-23T09:17:00.000-08:00

Hey, Soap Lovers!

After soaping night and day for weeks on end, we are ready for a bit of a break. Stella Marie will be closed from December 23rd - Jan 3rd. We will be ready to ship product again January 4th.

Happy and Safe Holidays to you all!

Kim

P.S. We are already planning some GREAT stuff for 2010! Can't wait to share all the goodies with you guys!

Gift Certificates Now Available!

2009-12-21T08:28:00.000-08:00

We are proud to offer Gift Certificates in the following denominations:

$25, $50, $75 and $100

Free shipping for the lucky recipient!

Pictures to Prove It

2009-12-19T09:17:00.001-08:00

I recently received a custom order from a close friend of The Mighty, Mighty Bosstones. She ordered my Bosstones soap for all the members of the band. I am guessing that she will be giving them their soapy gifts during this year's Hometown Throwdown. The fact that Dicky Barrett will be using soap made by little ole me is so exciting! I took a few pics of the soap before it shipped out. Take a peak!

6th Annual SOWA Holiday Market

2009-12-11T05:11:00.001-08:00

This is THE place to be this weekend, folks! I've got all kinds of special goodies, too! You don't want to miss it!

Santa Baby is Back!

2009-11-25T18:43:00.000-08:00

We couldn't resist bringing our luscious Christmas Cookie Sugar Scrub back for another season! Yummy aromas of shortbread, sugar and spices dance out of this creamy holiday treat! All the indulgence of a platter of cookies without the tummy ache!

Just 12 Days Left for Free Shipping!

2009-11-20T07:17:00.000-08:00

There are only 12 days left to take advantage of free shipping at Stella Marie Soap Company! Simply enter the coupon code 09_HOLIDAY_COUPON upon check out and enjoy all the soapy shipments you like for FREE!

Click here to start shopping!

Third Time's a Charm

2009-11-02T15:06:00.000-08:00

Joan Jett is rocking yet another look. We saw this awesome soap stamp and simply could not resist another redesign of this classic Stella Marie soap.

Behold ... the new NEW Crimson & Clover!

Crantini - November's Soap of the Month!

2009-11-02T15:04:00.001-08:00

Get yourself in the mood for holiday coziness with this delightful soap! The aromas of cranberries and spice swirl together in Crantini, the Stella Marie Soap of the Month.
Psst ... we will be offering this beauty through December!

Free Shipping All November Long!

2009-11-02T14:58:00.001-08:00

Do you like early holiday gifts? We thought so. All November long, Stella Marie is offering FREE SHIPPING on all of your online purchases. It's our way of giving thanks to you, our amazing customers! Complimentary tags are available for all of our gift sets. Cross a few people off your list - and save some green at the same time! Simply key in coupon code 09_HOLIDAY_COUPON upon check out.

Rock and Roll Yard Sale

2009-10-31T05:56:00.000-07:00

Hey, peeps, if you live in the Providence area and would like to do a little "alt" shopping, come down to the Rock and Roll Yard Sale next weekend! We'll be there on Sunday, selling our punky soaps and bath goodies. Come join us! (Narragansett Beer will be available the entire weekend, too!)

November 7th - 8th
232 Westminster Street, Providence, RI.

This Sunday!

2009-10-22T11:38:00.000-07:00

Come to the SOWA Market on Harrison Avenue in Boston for a spooky good time! (I've been working on my costume all week - you'll have to come to the market for big the reveal!)

Really looking forward to this one, folks!

Wedding Wire

2009-10-21T07:57:00.001-07:00

I've just fleshed out our Wedding Wire page. Give it a look-see and write a review if you have a moment.

SPA NIGHTS WITH STELLA MARIE SOAP COMPANY

2009-10-19T07:48:00.000-07:00

Before all the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, take some time for you and your friends to relax.

Let us pamper you with a fresh avocado or oatmeal honey facial. Enjoy mall-free shopping and an exclusive 10% discount on our entire line!

Imagine ... no parking lots and no long lines! We'll even raffle off free bath goodies!

Spaces are limited, so kick the season off right and book your home party today! Contact us (kim@stellamariesoap.com) or visit our website for more details.

After learning about the company I decided to host a spa night. It was one of the best ideas I've had and I highly recommend the experience to others. My friends had a great time trying the products - they loved that they were buying hand-made local goods of a high quality, and the products are amazing!

-HOLLY J.

Spooky Halloween Treats!

2009-10-01T14:38:00.000-07:00

Here are this month's scary offerings from Stella Marie Soap Company!

Smash - October's Soap of the Month

{Pumpkin Pie Soap}

Black Licorice Soap Cupcakes

{available at events only}

Candy Corn Bath Fizzies

{available at events only}

Bloody Cherry Soap Cupcakes
{available at events only}

Here's the Big News!

2009-09-30T14:41:00.000-07:00

Stella Marie Soap Company is joining forces with nine other fabulous local crafters to form a kick ass collaborative called Rhody Craft 100. Check out the flyer attached for details and please be sure to become a fan on Facebook!

If you live in the Providence area and are terrified of shopping malls, do yourself a favor and drop by our store at Lucky Bird Studio in the Hope Artiste Village in Pawtucket (1005 Main Street)! We will be open every Saturday in November, December and January from 10 AM - 3 PM.

Big Announcement Next Week

2009-09-25T06:20:00.001-07:00

Stay Tuned!

Weird Smile, Fun Time

2009-09-23T18:25:00.000-07:00

Yes, this is me. Smiling oddly in back of my soap cupcakes for the photographer at the Café Fleuri in The Langham Hotel in Boston. I was selling my sweet goods at their nationally-known chocolate bar. I thought I blinked. Mercifully, I did not.

Essence Fragrance Bar

2009-09-23T14:56:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple of shots of the sexy smelling minibar soaps I created for Essence on Newbury Street.

The owners provided the scent, which is truly divine. The entire line of Stella Marie soaps as well as body scrubs, bath bombs and whipped shea body butter are available in their retail shop. Below are a couple of images of their super cool shop.

[the bar]

[the Stella Marie display]

Breathe

2009-09-10T09:59:00.000-07:00

I wanted to take a moment to plug a product that I think we can all benefit from. Peg Doyle, founder of Wellness and You, has developed an amazing new tool for helping us destress and refocus ourselves. Wellness and You, established in 1997 just West of Boston, is devoted to supporting individuals and communities in developing healthy lifestyles through nutritional health counseling and bodywork.

About the CD:

If you are looking for a practical and effective tool to consistently support you in managing your stress, thus lowering your risk for illness, this recording is for you.

Stress is now identified as a primary contributor to many chronic and major illnesses. Tension in the mind translates to tension in the body, laying the foundation for a weakened immune system and susceptibility to disease.

Learning to manage your stress is a vital component of good health. With that in mind, this recording will guide you through a series of visualizations that release tension and restore a sense of well-being. With Holistic Health Counselor Peg Doyle's soothing voice and key phrases, you will experience a level of deep relaxation in both the mind and body.

Read all about Peg's expertise and approach here. I know first hand that she has a veeeeerrrrry relaxing voice. Personally, I can't wait to get my copy and bounce it onto my iPod shuffle. I am also going to give a copy to my mom who continues to battle with cancer.

BUT WAIT! THERE'S MORE!
Peg is offering a 20% discount off the list price of her new cd for a limited time. Visit: https://www.createspace.com/1763435. Use coupon code: GK8HZKV3

Get Peachy Clean!

2009-09-02T14:21:00.000-07:00

September is the time we celebrate peaches ... and we've made no exception here in soap land! Pick up a bar of Stella Marie's Soap of the Month, Hot Fuzz, and fill your shower with the fresh, sugary aromas of peach cobbler. No doubt this soap will sell out well before the end of the month, so get yours today!

I (heart) Rhody!

2009-08-22T05:12:00.000-07:00

A coupla bits of press from my little state ...

We were featured in Market Research on Rhode Island Monthly yesterday! Woot! Woot!

We also found ourselves in the Best Rhode Island Weddings site (division of Best City Weddings) with 5 stars! Sweet!

Save the Date, Chocolate Lovers!

2009-08-20T07:01:00.000-07:00

Stella Marie has been invited to participate in the Langham Hotel's weekly Chocolate Bar event at Cafe Fleuri on September 12th! We will be bringing all of our decadent bath and body treats to the event including:

The Langham Hotel
250 Franklin Street
Boston, MA

More Stuff

2009-08-20T06:49:00.000-07:00

Here are the favors - all dressed up and ready for the wedding!

And a few other goodies, too ...

Chocolate Mint Soap Pie Slices

Soap Cupcakes: Banana Chocolate, Wisteria, Cucumber & Black Cherry

A Few Odds & Ends

2009-08-12T17:46:00.000-07:00

Here are some wedding favors I am working on - they are scented in mango, pineapple & coconut. Wait until you see them all dressed up!

Chocolate Mint Soap Bundt Cake Slice

Celebutante Sisters Features Kiss My Pup

2009-08-08T04:47:00.000-07:00

Read Kerri and Andrea's post on Kiss My Pup!
Thanks, again, ladies for getting the word out about Stella Marie!

August 2009 - Soap of the Month

2009-08-08T04:42:00.001-07:00

Whoa, doggy, you stink! Time to wash away all the dirt and funk with Stella Marie's Soap of the Month, Kiss My Pup! Made with eucalyptus essential oil (a natural flea repellent) and poppy seeds (great for scrubbing away dirt), it will help you get closer to your pup during the dog days of summer.

Doggie Soap Favors

2009-08-01T10:24:00.001-07:00

I just made these cute soap favors for our friends' wedding. They wanted them in the shapes of their 2 dogs. They are scented in fresh cut grass.

Beantown Press

2009-07-25T06:51:00.000-07:00

Just found out that Stella Marie was featured on the Boston.com beauty blog, "Stylephile."

Check out the story here!

Hot Town, Summer in the City

2009-07-23T07:30:00.001-07:00

We are heading to the Mashpee Open Market tomorrow with some fun summer bath treats - come on down!

[Beachy Bath Bombs and Cotton Candy Bath Bombs - $3/each]

[Black Cherry Bundt Soap Cake - $5/Slice]

[Ocean State Soap - Green French Clay Bar in Geranium & Tea Tree with Encrusted Salt on Top - $6/bar]

[Refreshing Honeydew Melon Soap - $6/bar]

[Cucumber Soap - A True Summer Treat! $6/bar]

[Our Joan Jett Soap MAKE OVER! Cute new look and a nice new price - now only $4!]

Mashpee Open Market information:

The Mashpee Open Market, now in its 3rd season, offers a unique shopping experience featuring artisan made goods, fine art, and fresh produce! Conveniently located just over the Sagamore Bridge in Mashpee Commons, the Market features a different group of artisans every Friday ensuring that no two visits will be the same, and with free customer parking, making a trip to the Market has never been easier!

At the Mashpee Open Market not only can you shop for art, healthy edibles, and antiques, but you also have the opportunity to meet the people who design and create the wide variety of products that are for sale.

Wedding Favor Review

2009-07-17T04:54:00.000-07:00

I just received this review on Wedding Wire (dot) (com) from one of my customers. She is a FABULOUS woman whom I had the pleasure of making favors for. This review really made my day!

I contacted Kim two weeks before my wedding to see if it would be possible for her to make me 185 soap favors for my guests. I figured she would send me back a nicely worded but firm email to the effect of "lady, you've got two weeks. Pull the other one." Instead, she emailed me back the same night, telling me she could definitely take the project on. She had some great ideas, and we decided to do pink swirled soaps scented with either geranium or apple, orange swirled soaps in blood orange or mango, and one batch of creamy soaps with lavender. The soaps came out beautifully and since Kim was nice enough to deliver them to my work (an hour away from her!!), I had people coming over all afternoon, sniffing eagerly! The soaps not only smell great, but they lather up wonderfully and I've already had several people ask me how they can get their hands on more. Kim was fantastic to work with and is SO creative...just take a look at her website to see all the great items and scents she comes up with! All of the soaps are 98% natural and 100% vegan friendly. I was delighted with everything about this vendor.

(NB: I used them as placecard-favors. I wrapped each soap, then put a label on it with each guest's name and table assignment. It worked out really well and guaranteed that people TOOK their favors. We only had a couple leftovers, and I think all but one were no-shows!)

The Hotel Providence

2009-07-14T20:26:00.000-07:00

We are proud to provide The Hotel Providence with spa packages for their Romance in Providence special. Each package contains a bar of Ocean State soap, Lavender & Eucalyptus Body Scrub, Lavender & Eucalyptus Massage Bar and a relaxing Lavender Salt Soak.