This month our feature vendor is Trade & Mark Soap Company. Kim has been making soap for over two decades and started out making it as gifts for friends and family. We are so glad that she has branched into selling her soap as it really is amazing! Make sure you shop her store.
This month we sat down with Kim to talk about her business.
First Some Background
My name is Kim Kelly, I am happily married to my High School sweetheart Ron and have 2 fantastic grown up sons . Our oldest son is married and they have a wonderful 2 year old daughter, (our first granddaughter). Our youngest son was just married last year in May and lives in Montreal. By the way I love, love, love being a grandmother!!!!!!!(LOVE).
I have been practicing Pharmacy for over 30 years (yikes) and am presently working for a small independent pharmacy outside of Calgary as a relief Pharmacist.
How did you come up with your name?
So, my father was a pharmacist too. When I was a little girl, I would call my Dad at work to ask if he could bring home the special "Smith Brother's" cough drops. Even though he knew exactly what I meant, he would always ask with a grin, " which ones?" Exasperated, I would reply, "you know Dad, the ones with the two guys on the package - Trade and Mark!"
I've loved that name ever since and decided to let it inspire the name of this company!
What Attracted You to Making What you Do?
Well, I have been making this soap for 2 decades as gifts for my friends and family. About 2 years ago, the independent Pharmacy that I had been working for over 25 years, had to close its doors. About 4 years before that, a giant corporation Drug Store decided to build a new store, literally in the parking lot. Long story short, we were bought out and I decided I could not walk across the parking lot and work for the big competition. This life changing time in my life, made me decide that maybe now was a good time to start a small business to share my passion and craft.
How Long Have You Been Making Your Creations?
Soap and lip balm, over 2 decades. All my life I have always wanted to express my more creative artist side to balance my more nerdy scientific side.
How Do You Decide What to Create?
Since the beginning my goal has been to create a bar with a smooth and silky, natural lather. Without harsh detergents, hardening agents or perfumes. I want people to really use the soap in shower every day. Not to use just for special occasions. I also wanted to make a natural lip balm - and I found a great formula that is soothing... and it works for a long time!
Any Big Plans for New Items?
I really want to work on an unscented bar as I believe that there is a demand for allergic and sensitive people.
I am also working on some new exciting packaging!
Another goal is to create a soap for washing raw wool that will eventually be spun into wool for knitting or weaving (long story).
What Do You Hope People Get From Your Items?
I want people to want to use the bars to lather up every day in their shower or bath. I would like them to feel the quality and enjoy the experience. Also I would like people to give their friends the experience in a gift box!
Do You Have a Favorite Product That You Have Created?
I really like the truffle boxes with sleeves that slide, for my gift boxes. I believe packaging is very important to present the high quality of my soap and lip balm.
What is your favorite product created by someone else on Thea-Bel?
There are so many to choose from. I have recently purchased some beautiful cards.
What Prompted You to Join Thea-Bel?
A colleague from work let me know about the site. Also I liked the concept of one stop shopping promoting unique local crafters.
Also, when you meet Sarah and feel her enthusiasm for marketing and business... what can I say - a great way to promote Trade & Mark Soap! [Thanks for the kind words, you are so sweet]
Is There Anything Else You Want People To Know?
I really believe that our community needs to support our local artistic crafters.
We have a lot of talent in Alberta! [I couldn't agree with you more, I am continually amazed by what comes across my desk].
Is There Anywhere Besides Thea-Bel That People Can Get Your Items?
Yes....my website
Villekulla Handmade
Cougar Ridge Remedy's Pharmacy & Travel Clinic
Douglasglen Pharmacy & Travel Clinic
Do You Do Custom Work?
I sure do! That is one of my favorite parts of the business. I create gift boxes for all sorts of occasions. Wedding favours, hostess or host gifts, Mother's Day, special teacher gifts, special friend gift, corporate gift, you name it!
For example if I am doing wedding favours, I like to meet with the couple to make personal choices on the colour of gift boxes, the wrappers, ribbon colour, scent of soap to make their special occasion feel even more special!
Wrap Up
I hope that you enjoyed learning more about Kim. If there is anything else that you want to know please add your comments below.
Also, make sure you take advantage of the deal of the month and get your free Lip Balm.
