Covid changed everything. As far as a business, making soap seemed like a business that would really flourish during the pandemic, and this might have been a slight advantage, but really, I had to take the business, and turn it upside down to survive.
First off, my events, such as my farmers' market, my holiday events and other in-person events, which is where I previously made 80% of my income were either compromised or cancelled all together. How could I possibly survive?
Luckily, I was super inspired and motivated to make it all work. I took all my energy, and focused on a newly designed website, updated product photography, marketing opportunities, networking and a whole lot of determination. I decided instead of seeing all these set-backs as limitations, I would use them as motivation to move ahead in a new way. I also have a fair amount of grit, so I took on business challenge with zeal.
I was laser focused on making a new model work, one in which my income shifted from in-person events to online sales and wholesale accounts. And guess what? I love it! I loved my in-person events, but I am so much happier now. Farmers' Markets are awesome, but they require so much set-up time, prep work and a whole lot of time standing in the elements all weekend. Plus, my first Covid farmers' market season yielded half the income I had earned in previous years due to new regulations with how many folks could visit the booth at once.
The other challenge with Covid has been issues with the supply chain. Ingredients that use to be readily available are either scarce, difficult to procure, or have increased in price drastically. If you have noticed a slight increase in prices with Lion & Rose soaps and deodorants, this is largely a result of these ingredient shortages. It's frustrating and time consuming, but I love what I do so much that I will take on this challenge as well.
Lastly, I have discovered my true passion is in making these products, nothing can stop me. Not even a pandemic, but I have been able to make sense of my top priorities. I am cherishing the extra time I reclaimed on weekends with my family, and when I use my weekends to make soap, it is because it still excites me so much. I really adore when I make a perfect batch. Really, it makes me so giddy and makes me realize, I really am living my dream. Thanks for sharing it with me.
