Conversations with Carol Samaan

Today we’d like to introduce you to Carol Samaan.

Hi Carol, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I have always been drawn to handmade, natural soap and self care products. My son has eczema, and I noticed that commercial products, even the most “gentle,” would cause his skin to flare up. I was strolling through a holiday market and came across handcrafted soap made with minimally processed ingredients. I decided to try it for my son. After we saw some improvement, I did a little research into making my own soap and – voila! His eczema cleared up with my first batch of oatmeal soap.

I started making more and more soap. I was never good at traditional art forms like drawing or painting, but somehow I found a way to execute all my design ideas in soap. I found I could make elegant and even complex designs, using natural and minimally processed ingredients that smelled amazing and were skin-nourishing. For example, using Brazilian purple clay (great for purifying the skin) gives such a beautiful purple hue. Combine that with lavender essential oil, goat milk and aloe vera, and you have a soothing, skin-loving soap!

What started as a hobby during the pandemic soon transformed into a small business when friends and family started asking to buy my products. Since then, I’ve launched a website, opened a physical location at OpenMarket OC in Laguna Hills and sold my products at numerous pop-up events and farmers’ markets.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Making soap and self-care products is therapeutic for me. I have a busy life as a corporate attorney and mom of three, but soapmaking late at night or on weekends is “me time.” When I transitioned from hobby to small business, it was a little challenging at first figuring out logistics – worrying about shipping rates and insurance isn’t exactly therapeutic! But once I got through those details, my passion really transformed. I love being able to share my products with so many people, and it’s so heartening to hear how they benefit from my products. It really makes a difference – whether clearing up acne, stopping skin irritation, preventing dry skin, or allowing someone to pamper themselves. I put so much thought and care into every single ingredient I use, and the feedback I receive makes it all worthwhile!

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m a corporate attorney by day and soapmaker by night. I’m most proud of being able to offer beautifully created products made with minimally processed and natural ingredients at very affordable prices. Speaking with other working moms, we often feel guilty about treating ourselves. I love being able to offer beneficial products that don’t break the bank or bring on the guilt. I tell my customers, “Life is too short not to use good soap!”

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
You can find our products at OpenMarket OC at the Laguna Hills Mall!

Pricing:

• Soap – $6.50
• Whipped Body Butters – $10
• Whipped Sugar Scrub Soap – $8
• Solid Lotion Bars – $3.50
• Shampoo Bars – $5

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.harvestsoapco.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/harvest_soap
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/harvestsoap