Mangrove - The Soap that Started Everything
After meeting hundreds of people at markets around Ottawa, by far the most common question I get asked is “What is your favourite soap?” And with good reason! With over 20 unique bars on display at any given time, each one more enticing than the last, choosing just one can feel like an overwhelming task. Many of my soaps are named after charming streets in my neighbourhood, which adds a bit of local flair but can leave you wondering where to start.
My first citrus scented soap ended up looking more like bacon!
Let me share a little story about my all-time favourite soap: Mangrove. This isn’t just any soap; it’s the soap that launched my passion for soap-making!
Years ago, I received a bar of soap from a friend that changed everything for me. I didn’t think much of soap back then—I used it daily without a second thought. But this particular bar, I believe from Portugal, was a game-changer. It was a hefty chunk of soap made with olive oil, coconut oil, and palm kernel oil. It had all the right ingredients for a lasting impression, but what truly set it apart was its fragrance.
The moment I unwrapped it, the scent enveloped me like a warm hug. The label read Grapefruit & Mandarin, and oh my goodness, it was a zesty explosion of citrus that danced in the air! I was completely obsessed.
Citrus fragrances tend to accelerate more slowly than others, making it a great option for this soap using the "one pot wonder" technique
Unfortunately, the price tag revealed it was from a store known for its ever-changing inventory. I realized that once I used this heavenly bar, it would be gone forever. So, I made a reluctant decision: I tucked it away in my bedside drawer, saving it for those days when I needed a little pick-me-up. I’d open the drawer, take a deep breath, and let the memories wash over me. But, as time passed, the fragrance faded, and I found myself heartbroken.
You might be wondering, “How long does soap actually last?” Well, while soap can last for a long time, its delightful scent and vibrant colors tend to fade long before the bar itself goes bad.
Determined to find a replacement, I scoured every store I could think of, but nothing compared. So, I took matters into my own hands and started making soap in hopes of recreating that now nearly odorless bar. After countless experiments, I finally crafted Mangrove, a wonderful blend of pink grapefruit and tangerine that captures the essence of that unforgettable fragrance. While it may not be an exact match to my cherished memory, it’s the closest I’ve come so far. And every now and then, I still load up my shopping cart with new citrus fragrances, hoping to find that elusive blend.
Mangrove Handmade Soap - part of my Findlay Creek Soap Collection
One of the most amazing aspects of soap-making is the journey of discovery it takes you on. Each bar tells a story, not just of ingredients, but of memories, emotions, and the beauty of creativity.
So, what about you? What’s your favorite soap? Share your stories in the comments below! And if you’re curious to explore my collection, don’t forget to visit my website, where you can find Mangrove and many other delightful soaps waiting to brighten your day. Happy soap hunting!