10 Important Tips for Choosing the Best Soapmaking Classes and Cosmetic Courses

Soapmaking classes in New York City taught by Marla Bosworth.

Wondering how to make soap or how to make lotion? There’s no better way to learn than taking a hands-on class. Even if you are an experienced soapmaker or cosmetic formulator, continuing education can be a vital link that keeps you up-to-date with the latest techniques and new ingredients on the market.

Just as there are varying degrees of students, there are a plethora of teachers and classes from which to choose.
Here are my top 10 tips for choosing classes to best match your needs:

1.       Expectations – Depending on the type of class you’re interested in taking, check your own expectations. What it is the “takeaway” that you want most from a class? Are you taking it solely to learn how to make a single product or two as taught or do you wish to develop a product beyond the recipes that will be covered in class? Perhaps you’re interested in learning new techniques to add your existing products?  Inquire about the level off curriculum. If you are already familiar with the basics, will the class teach you above and beyond what you already know? Or on the other hand, if you are a beginner you’ll want to confirm that the information taught in class won’t “leave you in the dust.”

2.       Class Description – Try not to make any assumptions when it comes to reading class descriptions. If you’re not sure what will be covered in class, email or call to clarify. In addition to the class description, inquire about whether you will receive a thorough class handout with instructions. Does the instructor share a list of suppliers and industry contacts? Also make sure you understand any cancellation policies. What is included in the class: is there an additional materials fee, do you need to bring anything, and is the teacher available through email to follow-up with any questions once class is over?

3.       Class Size – What is the maximum size the instructor will allow? Will this class size allow for enough personalized attention?

Will you receive hands-on training?

4.       Instructor –Each instructor has different strengths. Some might be better at making creative soaps and can show you how to do the same. Others may have a better understanding and background in developing successful and profitable businesses. You can gain quite a bit from an online picture. Here are some questions to ask in regards to the teacher:
·         How long has the instructor been teaching classes?
·         Does the teacher appear professional?
·         Do they have affiliations with industry associations?
·         What is their background and experience?
·         Does the instructor have their own full-time bath and body business?
·         Confirm that they have teacher’s insurance in case of any unforeseen accidents in class. Ask for proof if this is something that concerns you.

5.       Location – This may not be at very top of your list, but it is certainly something to take into consideration. Are you interested in the class because is it located close to you and convenient? If you need to travel can you justify the level of teaching that you will be given in exchange for the additional cost of accommodations and other expenses? Also, will you be able to deduct your travel expenses? Perhaps there other opportunities in the area if you are traveling to a city. For example, target potential wholesale accounts or visit a trades how that coincides with the class dates.

6.       Website – Does the instructor’s website appear professional and organized? Is there a lengthy, in-depth description of the class? Typically this is a good sign that if the teacher is organized and will carry the organization through in the class.

7.       Contact the Instructor – Make the connection with the teacher. Leave a message if you are prompted to voicemail and make not of how prompt the instructor is in returning your call. When you do connect, are you treated professionally? Does the instructor have time to answer your questions? Does she or he sound organized and knowledgeable? Ask about class size, what is covered during class, whether the teacher is available for followup questions after the day of class, and where to find pictures and class information online. Ask how long the teacher has been making products, how long she or he has been in business, how long they have been teaching, inquire about their professional background, whether the they have a full-time soap or cosmetics business, especially if you want to learn how to run your own soap or cosmetics business.

8.       Search for Online Reviews – Search Yelp.com, Facebook business pages, Twitter, and conduct a Google search for class reviews. Simply type in the name of the instructor or company and see what online feedback you can determine from previous students. Check out previous class photos to see where workshops are held and the structure of the class.

9.       Ask for References - If you’re making a substantial investment, perhaps for an extended program, ask for references from former students. Also ask for success stories from the instructor. What have some of their students done with the information they gained in classes? Are they hobbyists or are do they have a business?

10.   Depth of Class Offerings – It this a one-time class or ongoing series that you’re taking? Would you like to develop the business while working with one instructor, or are you looking to work with a number of teachers?
  
With a bit of research and preparation, you'll be able to find the class that is the right fit for you. Set expectations and ask plenty of questions. A little time invested into research will give you a great payback in matching up with the type of class that fits your needs. 

This article is written by Marla Bosworth and reprinted with permission from Saponifier Magazine. 

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Cosmetic Course Quickie: Making Body Scrubs

It's winter in New England and there's nothing better to keep away dry skin than a body scrub. Interested in learning how to make your own exfoliating body scrubs? Listen to our audio clip:

Have fun making your own scrubs! Check out our DVD and e-books, cosmetic courses and online programs.

Students from Overseas and Across U.S. Trek to NYC Soap Making Classes

Fifteen adults spent their Memorial Day weekend dressed in face masks, latex gloves and protective goggles in an Upper West Side craft shop to get up close and personal with the caustic chemical lye.

Instead of heading out of town for the long holiday weekend, the group stood in a classroom at Little Shop of Crafts, learning soapmaking from Marla Bosworth, founder of Back Porch Soap Co.

About two hours into Friday night's three-and-a-half hour session, Bosworth was supervising students as they mixed melted shea butter, lye, and water in a plastic bucket with a hand blender.

Bosworth teaches students how to incorporate organic ingredients, where to source supplies, and emphasizes the use of natural and organic colorants like the parsley shown here

One student sprinkled dry parsley, a natural green colorant, into the mix, which looked like cake batter. After pouring in essential oils may chang, cedarwood and vetiver, a lemony scent filled the air.

"Isn't it fun?" Bosworth said. "When the whole thing happens, it's just magical, isn't it?"

Bosworth was once a market research analyst who dabbled in making her own creams at home for fun. When she was laid off in 1998, she used her severance package to start Back Porch Soap Co.

Now she manufactures her own line of bath and beauty products out of her home studio in Duxbury, Mass. She teaches hands-on classes there — topics include organic body butters and artisanal bath fizzies — and also consults with clients on how to start their own bath and body products business.

Bosworth teaches classes at Little Shop of Crafts on Amsterdam Avenue and West 94th Street about every other month. Later this summer, she's opening a permanent store and classroom inside Little Shop of Crafts.

During Friday's class, Bosworth dispensed plenty of tips. Some were business-oriented, such as where to get insurance if you're going to sell soap out of your home, and how to look up information about the FDA-approved method for labelling soaps.

Other information was more in keeping with the theme of Bosworth's product line, which is entirely vegan and uses all natural ingredients, some of which are organic.

"There's nothing like essential oil to change your mood," Bosworth said as students stirred a combination of rosemary, patchouli and lavender oils that she dubbed her "Good Karma" blend. "If you're a little off and bummed out, smell some rosemary."

Some students at Friday's class were enrolled in an $895 four-day series of classes called Bath & Body University, for people who want to start their own businesses.

Others took the soapmaking class for fun. One students was a retired nurse whose son gave her the class as a present, another was a woman who wanted to learn how to make soap for a husband with sensitive skin.

Gina Francois, a web designer, said she took the class because she wanted to learn how to make soap "the right way."

Francois started making her soap at home after her daughter was born with mild acne and a doctor advised her to seek out cleansers with natural ingredients. She taught herself how to do it mostly by reading information on the Internet, she said.

Francois was enrolled in the four-day Bath & Body University. "I've been here since Wednesday and there are so many things I've found out I was doing wrong," Francois said. "It's been great."

At the end of the night, students left with two plastic tubs filled with still-warm soap batter. It would set overnight, then get sliced into bars, then spend another four weeks "curing."

Bosworth said she got "completely addicted" to soapmaking as soon as she made her first batch.

"I love the fact that you can take all natural ingredients and create your own soaps from scratch and not have to use any chemicals," Bosworth said.

More info on upcoming New York City soap classes.

Reprinted with permission by Leslie Albrecht, DNAinfo Reporter/Producer

Cold Process Soap Making Class Yields 24 Litsea and Rosemary Mint Loaves!

This weekend's cold process soap class marked the 29th class I've taught in less than three months. It's been a whirlwind last few months - from teaching a Beauty Business Bootcamp in San Francisco, to New York City Bath & Body University and then back in the Boston area for more classes.

Typical of our classes, students this weekend came from all over the U.S., as well as from different walks of life and professions. But over and over they all have at least one thing in common: the desire to learn to make natural skincare products.

Above are the 24 loaves, getting packed up and heading home with students to be given as gifts to family and friends around the world (or kept for themselves!). We scented the 20 lb. batch of Groovy Hemp Soap with Litsea (May Chang) and Patchouli essential oils. The Moisturizing Cocoa Butter Soap recipe was scented with Rosemary and Peppermint essential oils.

Check out our calendar for upcoming Boston Soap Making Classes and New York City Soap Making Classes, as well as Natural Skincare Business Consultations. If you would rather learn from home, you can always purchase our DVDs and class handouts.

New 4-Day Bath and Body University Just Added for October 2010!

Have you been wanting to take your current bath and beauty business to the next level or the one you've dreamed about owning off the ground? Then this Four-Day Bath & Beauty University will be perfect for you.

Come meet other students from around the world and enjoy the beauty of fall in the Boston area, with all of its various shades of foliage. Slated for October 21-24, 2010. Our August Bath & Body University sold out quickly, so if you're interested, sign up soon! Payment plans are available - check out details on our website.

What you'll receive: learn to formulate your own products (from cold process soaps to creams and lotions just to name a few), how to run a successful bath and body company, finding your niche and differentiating yourself from the competition and take home 90 products valued at $654. Leave with a solid plan for your business and products. You'll be taught and guided by Marla Bosworth for all four days.

About Your Teacher: My name is Marla Bosworth. I'm the owner/founder of Back Porch Soap Company located in Duxbury, Massachusetts. My company was launched in 1998. Currently I sell to more than 250 upscale retail boutiques throughout the U.S. and overseas, as well as natural food stores such as Whole Foods. My professional background includes nearly 20 years in market research and consulting for small and large businesses. You'll learn from my vast retail industry experience, as well as my internet marketing insights. Come learn from someone who is "in the trenches" of a soapmaking business day in and day out! I am a contributing author for The Saponifier Magazine, a moderator on Indie Beauty Network, and a speaker at the Handcrafted Soapmakers Guild Conference in 2009 and 2010.

Classes are held in my Duxbury, Massachusetts studio. We are located just 30 minutes south of Boston.

View our website for more information and to register for this class. Most students come from outside of New England, and many travel from overseas just to attend my classes. I've taught students from Ghana, Venezuela, Nigeria, Peru, Philipines, Chile and Ireland. I'm happy to help you with your travel arrangements. Please email me.

Recommended nearby accommodations:Hampton Inn, Plymouth, MA (15 minutes from my studio)Best Western Cold Spring, Plymouth, MA (15 minutes away) Closest Airport:Logan International

The closest accommodations in Duxbury a bed and breakfast called Duxbury Tall Pines at a rate around $75-$100.

Other Transportation: Commuter Train MBTA Commuter Rail to Kingston Station Amtrak Closest station is Providence, RI and Boston, MA. Connecting commuter train available from Boston.

I also teach private classes. Send me an email and I'll reply with more information.

What a few of my students have said about working with me:

Marla,

We wanted to let you know that we loved all your classes. Every recipe, instruction, tip you gave us has a lot of value for our business. For us coming all the way from South America was absolutely worth it to sit at your table and learn from you. We really appreciate all your generosity and kindness throughout the classes. I am sure that we will have much success because of you! Thank you very much for having us in your class!

Our best wishes, Ale & Fifi
Venezuela

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Marla,
I am remiss in not thanking you for the wonderful cold process class I took with you in May.We are using the soap I made in class here at home and it is outstanding! My family has sworn off store bought.I also made my first batch on my own! Had to clear the house of family and pets, but I did it. I am now curing a peppermint/with caraway seeds type of garden soap. I am looking forward to taking a swirling class with you hopefully in the winter.

Thanks again,
Carolyn
Fitchburg, MA

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Hello Marla,

You are the best! Thank you so very much for being so informative in the advance soapmaking class last month. You are very accommodating, genuine and caring. I appreciate your effort to share your knowledge so that your students will be better equipped to create soaps more confidently. You thoroughly covered all bases.

Revonnie H.
North Carolina

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I came away from Marla's "Bath & Body University" with a clear vision on how to get my soap business off the ground. She taught me how to create beautiful high-end soaps that I'm in love with. Marla is a personable, natural mentor with a sincere desire to help others turn their aspirations into a reality. I couldn't be happier about my decision to complete her program.

Alyssa T.
Massachusetts

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Hi Marla,

I just wanted to say that your class was really informative. You presented the information in a clear and articulate manner. I'm planning to use your suggestions right away!

Elaine C.
New York City

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Hi Marla,

I can't thank you enough for all of the valuable information you supplied me with yesterday during my one-on-one consulting. You are a wealth of knowledge and I appreciate that you share it with others.

We covered so much, and it is all in areas that my business needs attention to, just what I was looking for, I can't wait to get started!

Looking forward to catching up in Denver.

Jane F.
New Hampshire

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Hi Marla,
Thank you so very much again for conducting such a wonderful class! I can absolutely see why you have a lot of repeat students! Organized, informative and fun!

Merilyn K.
New York City

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Hi Marla,

I wanted to thank you for the outstanding class that you taught this past Saturday! I am very excited to dive right into soap making and feel the confidence to do so because of your class! You were very thorough, patient, and pleasant to be around. In general, I believe that you made everyone feel at ease. Thank you so much.

Very Sincerely,
K. Rokos
Vermont

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I HIGHLY recommend Marla's business coaching and classes to ANY and EVERYONE! In my quest to launch a business of my own, I found it to be of paramount importance to have actual product making classes under my belt, so I packed my bags and headed from DC to Duxbury, Mass.

Upon completion of the Soapmaking Bootcamp, Organic Product Development and Business Coaching classes, I walked away empowered with the knowledge that I could successfully embark on what was once a fleeting thought... MY VERY OWN BUSINESS!!! (and tons of take home goodies that had to be shipped!)

Lydia, Washington DC
Certified Holistic Health Counselor
(IIN/ Columbia University)

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Ideal for those looking for soap making courses, soap making classes, soap workshops, cold process, melt and pour, market and business plan for soap business, Soap making class, soap making classes, how to start a soap making business in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont, California, Oregon, Washington, Texas, Wyoming, Montanta, Idaho, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Ohio, Indiana, Tennessee, Kentucky, Hawaii, Alaska, New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, North Dakota, South Dakota, Georgia, Alabama, North Carolina, Florida, South Carolina, West Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, New York City, Boston.

Soap Making Classes, Soap Business Workshops and More

This is such a great time to learn to make soap: whether you're open to a new hobby, side business or launching a full-scale bath and body company. It all takes planning and proper execution, of course. Whether you live near or far, I hope you'll come join me for a class or two!

All of the Boston classes are listed by month here. Check out our New York City soap making classes and natural skincare classes. I also teach one-on-one classes and consulting to help you formulate your own skincare line or grow your current bath and body business.

My workshops take place at Back Porch Soap Company in Duxbury, Massachusetts. Our New York City classes are taught on the Upper West Side.

My studio is located 30 minutes from Boston, and only 45 minutes from Providence, Rhode Island. With beautiful Duxbury Beach, Cape Cod and Plymouth (Plymouth Rock and Plimoth Plantation) only minutes away, this is a perfect family destination! Your family will have plenty to enjoy in the area while you take soap making class or two.

About Your Instructor
My name is Marla Bosworth, and I'm the founder and owner of Back Porch Soap Company. I've been making soaps and teaching soapmaking for 13 years. My wholesale clients include Whole Foods and upscale boutiques around the world. I teach classes because I love sharing my passion for soap making, bath and body products, and entrepreneurship.

My credentials include a B.A. in English/Journalism from the University of New Hampshire in 1987. I have an extensive background in marketing, market research and manufacturer consulting as a Market Research Analyst for the company now known as Forrester Research. Clients included Hewlett-Packard, Canon, Xerox and IBM to name a few. Currently I am an independent bath and body business consultant.

My true calling is creating beautiful soap luxuries and inspiring other entrepreneurs how to do the same.

(Marla is a contributing author for The Saponifier Magazine, a moderator on Indie Beauty Network, and a speaker at the Handcrafted Soapmakers Guild Conference in 2009 and 2010. She teaches natural skincare and business classes throughout the U.S.)

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Ideal for those looking for Maine Soap Making Classes, New Hampshire Soap Making Classes, Vermont Soap Making Classes, Rhode Island Soap Making Classes, Connecticut Soap Making Classes, New York Soap Making Classes, New York City Soap Making Classes

New Learn at Home DVDs: How to Make Soap and How to Make Cream and Lotion

Are you ready to learn how to make handmade soap but can't find a class nearby? Or are you ready to start a soap business but not sure where to begin? I'm excited to share with you brand new workshops on DVDs that I introduced at the Handcrafted Soapmakers Guild Conference this year in Denver. They were a bestseller and I know you will love them too.

Two DVD workshops are available: "Cold Process Soap Making - Level 1" and "Bestselling Creams & Lotions". I'm sharing tips and secrets to formulating that I teach in NYC where classes run $155. But you can learn from home for only $48.

I've been teaching soapmaking classes since 2004 - six years after I started my soap company. Students have come as far as Ghana, West Africa and Venezuela to learn how to make bath and body products to launch a business. These DVDs are perfect for individuals who want to make natural skincare products for themselves and their families as well as entrepreneurs who want to formulate their own products and start a bath and body company.

Each DVD comes with a printed handout for easy reference to instructions, tips and tricks, troubleshooting, recipes, and a valuable supplier list. You can learn from home at your convenience without having to travel! I've taught hundreds of students over the past six years and I'm told my classes are extremely thorough and easy to follow. I'm sure you'll find the same is true with my DVDs.

Many more DVDs are the works and some of them are listed on my website with anticipated availablility dates. Be sure join my Facebook fan page to stay up-to-date!

Interested in wholesaling these DVDs? Please inquire at marla@backporchsoap.com.

Are there other classes that you would find helpful to have on DVD? I'd love to hear your suggestions.

Top Five Essential Oils for Soap Making

One of the most frequent questions I am asked during soap class is "Which essential oils should I buy to have on hand for soapmaking at home?" It's a very good question for several reasons.

First, essential oils are one of the most expensive ingredients in soapmaking. It's wise to be selective as you won't want to buy 12 or 15 essential oils as you ease into your new craft. Remember, you are adding 0.5 oz of essential oil per pound of oils in your recipe. So if you are creating a batch of soap that requires four pounds of oil, you will be adding 2 oz. of essential oil. It can be one essential oil or a blend of oils, but right around 2 oz. Some soapers use a bit more, and others use a bit less. As you become experienced, you get a feel for your particular oils and their staying power.

Second, if you narrow down your oils to the top five, you can purchase in larger quanitities (I recommend 16 oz. of each) for best pricing. Most suppliers charge more per ounce on 2 oz. or 4 oz. than they do on a 16 oz. or pound of essential oil. So you're spending your money wisely up front.

Lastly, if you choose your top five wisely, you'll end up with blending options. This means besides making a one-scent batch, you can also make a two or three-scent batch.

In the natural skincare and soap classes I teach, students use only essential oils. These are derived from nature - from herbs, flowers, fruits and more. They provide physiological and psychological benefits. For example, two of lavender essential oil's many physiological benefits is that it aids in relief of psoriasis and skin wounds. One of its psychological benefits is that it is calming. You'll want to choose essential oils based on their essence as well as for the healing properties they provide.

Note for new soapmakers: Fragrance oils are synthetic and man made. They do not have physical, emotional or other healing properties. If you are using fragrance oils just confirm that they are intended for use in soap making and ask your supplier if they perform well or if there are any known problems.

Here are my Top Five Essential Oils for Soapmaking:

Lavender
Properties: Calming, soothing and relaxing, which helps those with stress and nervous tension, headaches and migraines. It is a natural choice for healing many skin conditions such as acne, bruises, burns, dermititis, eczema, inflammation, psoriasis, sunburn and wounds to name a few.
Blending: It blends well with many oils, from citrus to florals.

Rosemary
Properties: Rosemary immediately alters my mood. If I'm feeling a bit down, just a little sniff will help restore and balance my mental state. In addition, it is wonderful to use to aid in dermatitis, acne, eczema, and your boosting immune system.Blending: Try blending with lavender, peppermint, cedarwood, basil, and lemongrass.Note: Rosemary should not be used by individuals who are pregnant or who suffer from epilepsy.

Peppermint

Properties: Refreshing, restorative and a wonderful stimulant. It aids in circulation, muscular pain, can relieve asthma, and boosts the immune system.
Blending: Works well with rosemary, lemon, eucalyptus and of course lavender just to name a few.

Patchouli
Properties: Calming in small amounts, and uplifting in larger amounts. A known anti-inflammatory and useful in relieving dry skin.
Blending: Patchouli is one of several essential oils known to "anchor" scents. Use in small amounts, even when blending, as it can easily become overpowering. Blends well with lavender, lemongrass, rosemary, bergamot, clary sage and many more.

Lemongrass:
Properties: Uplifting and refreshing (one of my favorites for a kitchen soap). Aids in healing of acne and improves muscle tone.
Blending: Works well with citrus oils, lavender, geranium and bergamot. I love it with peppermint or eucalyptus. It is exceptional with a bit of patchouli.

Suggested Blends based on 4 oz. oil:

Lavender (2.5 oz.), Rosemary (1 oz.) and Patchouli (o.5 oz.)
Lemongrass (3 oz.) and Peppermint (1 oz.)
Lemongrass (3.5 oz.) and Patchouli (0.5 oz.)
Lavender (3.5 oz.) and Patchouli (0.5 oz.)
Rosemary (2 oz.) and Lemongrass (2 oz.)
Lavender (3 oz.) and Peppermint (1 oz.)
Peppermint (3 oz.) Patchouli (1 oz.)

It was challenging to pick just five, as Eucalyptus and Spearmint would have both been next on my list along with Vetiver, Geranium, Bergamot and Tea Tree.

Feel free to post your comments and let me know which oils you love or if you have any questions. You can check out my soap classes and natural skincare classes on my website.

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How to Start a Soap Business, Part Two: Profile of a Successful Soapmaker

This is Part Two in a series on How to Start a Soap Business (Part One is here.) It's important to really delve into your personality and passion as to whether you are the kind of person who can turn your hobby/craft into a full-time business.

There are common threads that run through every successful business soapmaker I've ever met. Those common threads are a fire in their belly, a resistance to failure (because it comes knocking again and again), and an undying enthusiasm as well as passion for their products and business. There's not a class that will teach you about passion. Either you have it - or you don't. But there's much more beyond passion.

It's imperative to strike a balance between the passion of making your handmade beauty products and incorporating the business side. A well-run soap business is like a finely tuned machine. First the soapmaking, then the marketing/selling (usually more than the actual product making), then the bookkeeping. Some weeks the focus is more on marketing/selling. Nonetheless, review the bottom line weekly, then repeat.

Why is it important to review the bottom line? It gives a telltale sign as to what is working for your business, and what isn't. We'll discuss this more later in the blog series.

What happens frequently is that a soapmaker may get caught up in the soapmaking, afterall it is fun to create. We are all artists at heart, yes? But one of two things is going to happen. First, soapmaking funds are going to run dry, and you'll be sitting amidst a lot of stock that needs to be sold. Or second, you keep pouring funds perhaps from your day job into soapmaking while giving away stock and realizing you've never made a dime.

Successful soapmakers know the importance of the company's bottom line. Turning a fun hobby into a money-making business requires a watchful eye on your finances - what's coming in (profit) and what's going out (cost of goods/expenses). The encouraging part here is that if you're not the accounting type, you can hire someone to manage your financial books. Be honest with yourself. If you're not entering your receipts and knowing where you stand on a weekly basis, then it's time to hire help. Depending on the size of your business, you should be able to hire a reputable accountant for as little as one to two hours a week. Not only will this help get your business finances on track, it will also allow free up your time to focus on growing your business.

Owning and running a soap business is not for the faint of heart. A successful entrepreneur needs creativeness, a vision, confidence, can-do attitude, fearlessness, business savviness, and the ability to be a world-class multitasker. Afterall, you are going to be creative director, computer specialist, customer service rep, shipping agent extraordinaire, chief bottlewasher and janitor all wrapped into one (or at least until you have the funds to hire someone for these respective positions).

You must be able to spot and seize opportunity and be open to changes in the marketplace. Every successful entrepreneur I know is passionately obsessed about their business. They are constantly brainstorming – at various times of the day - ideas about ways to improve their business whether it be marketing, new products development and possible joint ventures or leveraging with other businesses.

A wide spectrum of marketing is crucial to bring exposure to your handmade products. To some entrepreneurs, marketing is almost innate. Stay tuned for more in future posts.

Building a part-time or full-time business takes time. It also takes money. So don’t quit your day job yet. Roll up your sleeves and be prepared to work on this new venture when you are not at your full-time job – evenings, weekends, whatever it takes.

What are some characteristics or traits that you've noticed in yourself or other soapmakers?

How To Start A Soap Business; Make Research and Planning Your First Priority

This is the first in a series of posts aimed at helping you launch your natural skincare or cosmetics line. Over the coming weeks we'll take detailed look at the steps to get your new or current business off the ground.

Earlier this week an entrepreneur asked me how to find a niche for a soap company she is launching. She also asked how to determine her target market. You see, she had already created her products, logos and labels with great enthusiasm, but had not yet focused on sales and marketing.

She is not alone. Many soap hobbyists and crafters reach a point where they are making products for fun and then decide at some point they want to start a business. They've created soaps for friends and family, and perhaps have sold at a few shows, but are so immersed in creating products that they miss a key business point: who's my target audience and how am I going to appeal and market to them?

As a whimsy, creative type, I flew by the seat of my pants when I started my business back in 1998. Business types would ask me if I had written a business plan, and I'd shrug them off saying that I was "...going where the winds took my sail." I was convinced otherwise by several business advisors, and sat down and wrote my business plan. Was it a breeze to write? Not really, it took me several months. However, the process and the final result was eye-opening and enlightening. It gave my business new life and new direction. I found my niche, and my business skyrocketed.

In my consulting practice today, one of the first recommendations I make to bath and body entrepreneurs is to get their vision down on paper: niche, target market, marketing plan, SWAT analysis, competitor analysis, short-term goals and long-term goals.

We'll be covering all aspects of starting and running your own bath and beauty business in next week's class, which runs simultaneous with our 4-Day Bath & Body University.

What are your questions for starting or running a successful bath and body business? Post your comment below and I will answer them in the upcoming posts throughout the next few weeks.

In the meantime, you can find out more about private consulting and classes on my website. Sign up for my newsletter to stay up-to-date on future product and business webinars.

Here are some of the business classes I teach:

How to Launch and Run a Successful Bath & Body Business
How to Differentiate Yourself in the Bath & Body Industry
Business Plan Writing
Product Planning
Marketing Strategies
How to Implement Social Media and Internet Marketing
How to Wholesale Successfully

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Soap class, how to start a soap business, NYC, New York, New Jersey, Colorado, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont, California, Oregon, Washington, Texas, Wyoming, Montanta, Idaho, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Ohio, Indiana, Tennessee, Kentucky, Hawaii, Alaska, New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, North Dakota, South Dakota, Georgia, Alabama, North Carolina, Florida, South Carolina, West Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, New York City, Boston.

Top Five Tips for Starting A Successful Bath & Beauty Business

Recently I was asked for tips on how to start a bath and body business with limited income. Sometimes starting out on a limited income can be a blessing. Having limited income will force you to watch your spending, and to only spend on what is necessary.

Also, don't quit your day job. I recommend my clients to stay with their day job until their bath and beauty business is up and running before "jumping ship."

Top Five Tips for Starting A Successful Bath & Beauty Business

1. Avoid funding your business with credit cards.

2. Write your business plan. It does take time and effort, but you need to know your target market, marketing plan of action, SWAT analysis, pricing, and five year plan.

3. Gather a focus group of people you consider your target market. Choose people who you respect (not necessarily friends or family) and who will give you their honest feedback, even if it is negative. Be open and willing to listen to them. Meet with them at milestones in your business to get feedback on potential packaging, products, etc. Compile a list of detailed questions to give them for feedback on products. This way you get your valuable questions answered with information you can use instead of simple feedback such as "I liked it."

4. What makes you/will make you different from your competition? This is very important. It is going to be your selling point and it is going to be why your customers are going to buy from you versus your competitor.

5. Become your customer. Take away all you know about your company and approach it as someone who has just been introduced to it. Would you be drawn to your image, you products, your website? Step back and take a look at your products and company like this on a regular basis.

This is just the tip of the iceberg for starting your own bath and beauty company. Check out my classes and private consulting for further assistance with launching your business or taking your current bath and body business to the next level.

Don't Miss the Next Cold Process Soap Class Set for January 23, 2010!

Want to learn how to make soap from scratch? Curious about the cold process process? Then this is the perfect class for you!

Marla Bosworth, 12-year soap business owner, will teach you how to make your own healing soaps using oils of your choice at home. This class is perfect for beginners and those who've never made soap. Whether you're a hobbyist or thinking about starting your own soap business, this is a great place to begin!

We'll cover safety guidelines and ensure that you reach a level of comfort so that you can finally make soap by hand at home! We'll discuss how to properly use and store lye, mixing lye and water, oils for soap making, fragrance oils, essential oils, superfatting, additives and exfoliants, coloring, molding and curing. Students will receive soap recipes and a list of my favorite places to buy soap making supplies and equipment.

We will make two batches of soap as a class. Each student will take home 10 handmade bars of soap.

Saturday, January 23
9 a.m.- 1 p.m.

Consider taking "How To Run A Successful Bath & Body Business" on January 21. View other January 2010 classes.

Class is held in my Duxbury, Massachusetts studio. We are located just 30 minutes south of Boston.Can't make this class but want to stay in the loop with us? Sign up for our newsletter here and we'll email you (once a month) to let you know the latest happenings for new classes and more!

Click here for information on private, one-on-one classes and how to launch your own bath and body business. Email owner Marla Bosworth at marla@backporchsoap.com for more information.

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Soap Making Class Produces 60 Lbs. of Organic Soap!

Back Porch Soap Company headed to Newton Community Education Center in Newton, Massachusetts to teach a cold process soap class to 18 students. The students made three, 20 lb. batches for a total of 60 lbs. of soap!

Above, students have poured one of the two loaves they took home and are leveling off the top and adding calendula petals and/or rosebud petals. Essential oil blends used in this class might give you some ideas to try. Batch One (peppermint, eucalyptus, patchouli and clary sage), Batch Two (lemon, lime, litsea, vetiver and a hint of black pepper), and Batch Three (tea tree, sweet orange, clary sage, lavender, and patchouli).


Rachel (above) choosing chamomile buds to add to the top of her soap loaf. Students like personalizing their own take-home loaves.

Interested in learning how to make cold process soaps or other natural and organic bath and body products? Or are you interested in launching your own bath and body business? We have lots of upcoming classes and also offer individual consulting via phone or in our studio located near Boston, Massachusetts.

Find out more about our monthly classes. Or contact owner Marla Bosworth for more information. Our soap making classes are unique for birthday parties and group outings!

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Soap making courses, how to make soaps and start a business, Soap making class, soap making classes, how to start a soap making business in New York city, New Jersey, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont, California, Oregon, Washington, Texas, Wyoming, Montanta, Idaho, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Ohio, Indiana, Tennessee, Kentucky, Hawaii, Alaska, New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, North Dakota, South Dakota, Georgia, Alabama, North Carolina, Florida, South Carolina, West Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, New York City, Boston.

Want to Know How To Start Your Own Soap Business? They Did Too!

It's a hot question these days: "How do I start my own soap business?" There's no quick or easy answer, that's for sure. It requires market research, planning, determining your niche, developing your products, launching, and successful marketing...just to name a few.

Recently, George (NJ), Fifi (Venezuela) and her daughter Ale (also Venezuela) joined me for a private three-day consultation and classes on how to start a business. We made products including soaps (glycerin and cold process), artisanal bath bombs, creams, lotions, balms, sugar scrubs and sea salt soaks.

Here George is taking time to custom scent the creams he made from scratch with a blend from several essential oils.

Working as a team, George, Fifi and Ale created a batch of soothing aloe body lotion.

Ale and George put the finishing touches on the final product!

Ale and Fifi flew back to Caracas, Venezuela and began gearing up for a busy holiday season. They plan to start with home parties this year to get their business off the ground.

What are your questions for starting or running a successful bath and body business? Post your questions here or at my discussion group on Indie Beauty. And check out my classes at my website.

In the meantime, here are some of the classes I teach:

Natural and Organic Products:
Cold Process Soap Making

Organic Oils Glycerin Soap Making

Liquid Soaps

Creams, Lotions, Balms, Scrubs and Sea Soaks

Artisinal Bath Bombs

Skincare for Babies/Children

Facial Spa Treatments

Men's Facial and Body Products

Petcare Products

Soy Candles, Diffusers and Other Home Fragrances

Organic Body Oils, Bars and Body Butters

Personalization and Monogramming

Business Classes:

How to Launch and Run a Successful Bath & Body Business

How to Differentiate Yourself in the Bath & Body Industry

Business Plan Writing

Product Planning

Marketing Strategies
How to Implement Social Media and Internet Marketing

How to Wholesale Successfully

Looking for private classes or soap business consulting? Or send me an email and I'll reply with more information.

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Soap making class, soap making classes, how to start a soap making business in NYC, New York, New Jersey, Colorado, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont, California, Oregon, Washington, Texas, Wyoming, Montanta, Idaho, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Ohio, Indiana, Tennessee, Kentucky, Hawaii, Alaska, New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, North Dakota, South Dakota, Georgia, Alabama, North Carolina, Florida, South Carolina, West Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, New York City, Boston.

Soap Making Class Hosts Students From Nigeria, Venezuela and U.S.

Back Porch Soap Company's recent cold process soap making class hosted students from several countries. Ale and Fifi (pictured far left) flew in from Venezuela for three days of classes, Emilia (far right) is from Nigeria along with Cindy (from Montana) are both taking more classes this month, and other students came from New York, New Jersey and New England. Rick (pictured third from left) is a hair stylist from north of Boston who makes his own hair products. Sandy, Julie and Kiernan came from Massachusetts.

We made two batches of soap, and students selected their choice of additives for the top. Here, Ale is sprinkling lavender buds on top of her loaf of soap.

We made two batches of soap ~ and everyone takes home a loaf of each batch. Here students are spooning out and spreading the freshly made peppermint soap. We use natural plant oils - olive oil, palm oil and coconut oil.

George (New Jersey) is evening out his soap loaf. Behind him, Cindy (Montanta/New York) is choosing calendula petals as an additive to the top of her soap. Kiernan (Longmeadow, MA) finishes her loaves.

Cindy and George adding the lye/water mixture and stirring. (Note: I recommend that students wear closed toe shoes when making soap!)

Cindy and George working simultaneously to blend the lye/water and oils together before moving on to the stick blender.

Check out all my classes. I teach in NYC, Boston and am taking classes on the road in 2012! Looking for private classes or soap business consulting? Send me an email and I'll reply with more information.
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Soap making class, soap making classes, how to start a soap making business in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont, California, Oregon, Washington, Texas, Wyoming, Montanta, Idaho, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Ohio, Indiana, Tennessee, Kentucky, Hawaii, Alaska, New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, North Dakota, South Dakota, Georgia, Alabama, North Carolina, Florida, South Carolina, West Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, New York City, Boston.