AN AWARD-winning collection of artisan products handmade in Dorset - Lytchett Bay Soaps is Trader of the Week.
Launched in 2019 by Liz Merritt, Lytchett Bay Soaps produces a stunning range of artisan soaps, handmade natural skincare, haircare, gifts, and home fragrance, all at an affordable price.
In her three years of trading, Liz has continued to expand the Lytchett Bay Soaps product range, with her creations using organic ingredients and plant-based colours, whilst avoiding synthetic fragrances, SLS or Parabens.
She said: “We have soaps and shower gels. We have skincare, with everything ranging from scrubs right through to face serums. We’ve just launched a new nail and cuticle serum. I make shampoo bars. We have liquid soaps, male products, bath salts and even dog soap.
“I’m most proud of the shampoo and conditioner bars because they took a long time to formulate. They are proper formulated shampoo, just in a solid.”
Liz has ditched single-use plastics for the product packaging, and has recruited the help of Laurraine, the ex-owner of mobile shopping business Planet Zero Waste, all in a move towards more eco-friendly practices.
She has also made many of her products refillable. “People can buy the products in a nice durable tin first, and then come in for a refill.
“So, they’re saving money, and it’s plastic free.”
In 2021, Lytchett Bay Soaps won the Poole Business Award for Artisan Products. Liz said: "I got confidence from winning the Poole Business Award.
"It’s gone from strength to strength.”
Following the win, Lytchett Bay Soaps was moved to a new premises in the Courtyard Craft Centre, a shopping location boasting the most creative and unique traders.
Liz said: “It's amazing. We’re now in the main footfall.
“Existing customers have been coming to find me too.”
With more space available, Liz launched a series of soap and shampoo bar making workshops, giving people a chance to see how their favourite products are made.
For more information on the classes visit https://lytchettbaysoaps.co.uk/
You can find Lytchett Bay Soaps in Studio 1, The Courtyard Craft Centre, Huntick Rd, Lytchett Minster, Poole, BH16 6BA.
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