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Soapy Social Media Roundup

October 30, 2016 Filed Under: Personal Ramblings

Happy Halloween weekend! It’s always a little bit of a bummer when Halloween falls on a weekday, but it’s also fun to celebrate at the office. This weekend, the kids did a little trick-or-treating, and have become very protective and concerned with their buckets of candy. I don’t keep a lot of sugar around the house, so that bucket of candy might as well be a bucket of gold! I must admit, it’s a little bit tempting to me as well, but I can’t let my Best Day Ever challenge group down. =)

Now that Halloween is over, it’s full steam ahead to the holidays. Be on the lookout for another holiday inspired tutorial, and in the mean time, check out my favorite links from around the web below!

Pinterest:

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I’m starting to brainstorm healthy dishes for Thankgiving, and this Fall Quinoa Salad looks perfect.
This Baroque Soap by Steso is so elegant looking. It would make a fantastic holiday gift.
What could be better than juicy pomegranate seeds? Pomegranate seeds covered in dark chocolate of course!
A textured soap top covered in mica looks so luxurious, especially when it’s gold! These Golden Green Tea Soaps by Soapish proves it.

Instagram:
The tutorial for this snowdrop inspired hot process recipe will be up soon. I don’t make hot process soap often, but when I do, I so appreciate being able to cut and use it the next day! The beautiful blue in these bars is created with Caribbean Blue Mica.

Halloween might be over, but pumpkin season is still in full swing. If you ask me, it’s pumpkin season until the end of the year. =) Learn how to make this Pumpkin Pie Cold Process Soap here. Just make sure guests know it’s not for dessert!

Twitter:

Sitting all day at a desk and couch is terrible for your health. I love my stand up desk for this reason.
This restaurant owner found a loyal following for her healthy oatmeal, and turned it into a business. Her story is inspiring yet realistic.
This tutorial for making a butterfly swirl soap by Soap Making Essentials is fantastic. It includes the best visual representation of the swirl I have seen yet!
Ready for some eye candy? This store in Tokyo is an organized, colorful wonderland.
I love watching Shark Tank, but it turns out most of it is just for TV. Bummer!
You need money to make money, no doubt about it. If you’re looking for innovative funding sources, check out this post by Lela Barker.

To keep up with soapy social media throughout the week, you can follow me on Twitter, Tumblr, Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube and Snapchat. I’m Bramble-Berry on Snapchat. Don’t forget to tag your soapy projects on Instagram with the hashtag #SoapShare so I can see what you’re making!

Facebook and Instagram Photo of the Week (Oct. 22nd ~ 28th)

October 29, 2016 Filed Under: Bramble Berry News

The holidays will be here before you know it, so now is the time to start thinking of gifts. This week the blog was full of handmade gift ideas. The Melt and Pour Gem Soaps are a great option. They’re easy to make and customize with your favorite colors and scents. Find more inspiration in the Holiday Project Ideas post.

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Soapy Social Media Roundup

October 23, 2016 Filed Under: Personal Ramblings

It’s that time again…another week almost over! Every time I write a weekly roundup, it makes me realize just how quickly time flies. Speaking of time moving at the speed of light, I stumbled on this photo of Lily below and can’t believe how grown up she looks. The baby of the family is no longer a baby, she is a full fledged “kid.” In the photo below we are hanging out at the doctors office (nothing serious, just a check-up) and even during mundane trips she is all smiles.

Next week, look out for a holiday project and a new Soap Queen TV video. I’m also working on a business post about trademarks and business licenses. Not the most riveting subject, but I know how confusing that can be for new business owners. If you need some links to fuel your internet surfing, check out my favorite pins, tweets and ‘grams below.

Pinterest:

Left to right, clockwise:

How stunning is this fall inspired table setting? It would be perfect for Thanksgiving dinner, and looks pretty easy to put together!
I’m in love with these Berry Bewitching Artisan Soaps by Sv Soaps. The swirls, soap frosting, and witch-y embeds all come together perfectly.
Soap will always be my first love, but my love for paper products comes in close second. This love is part of my inspiration for Best Day Ever, which sells paper goods like cards and planners. This Best Day Ever card is perfect for birthdays, or any special occasion.
It’s definitely soup season. This Cannellini Vegetable Soup with Parmesan Toasts looks great for a cold day.

Instagram:
How amazing is this soaping studio? It belongs to Jill who is participating in my nutritional challenge for Best Day Ever. It’s so incredibly organized and clean! It makes me want to overhaul just about every room in my home.

The Chamomile & Coconut Oil Body Balm Tutorial was designed to be easy to make and multipurpose. The coconut oil is infused with chamomile herb, and the balm does not contain any fragrance oil so it can also be used for the lips.

In need of a little sparkle? Whip up some Sparkling Bath Crystals! They are really easy to make, and can also be used as potpourri if you fragrance them heavily. I think the pink might be my favorite, which is yours?

Twitter:

If you have 10 minutes, you have time to start practicing mindfulness.
Anybody else ever get lost in soapmaking videos on YouTube? Check out this video of Stacey of Yellow Cottage Soapery making watermelon cold process soap.
Not sure how I feel about robots making my pizza. I think people do a pretty good job already.
If you need a “awh” moment, this video of a baby elephant coming to the rescue of a man in a river (who didn’t actually need rescuing) really delivers.
Working in customer service can be difficult, no doubt about it. Learn how to keep your sanity.
Decorate your house for Halloween with this awesome Bloody Candle Tutorial!

To keep up with soapy social media throughout the week, you can follow me on Twitter, Tumblr, Instagram, Pinterest, Vine, YouTube and Snapchat. I’m Bramble-Berry on Snapchat. Don’t forget to tag your soapy projects on Instagram with the hashtag #SoapShare so I can see what you’re making!

Facebook and Instagram Photo of the Week (Oct. 15th ~ 21st)

October 22, 2016 Filed Under: Bramble Berry News

This week the blog was all about coconut oil. It’s a versatile ingredient that can be used in scrubs, balms and more. It’s commonly used at 33% or less in cold process soap, otherwise it can be drying on the skin. However, you can make a soap with 100% coconut oil. A 20% superfat helps make it moisturizing. This 100% Coconut Oil Soap is made with annatto seeds, bergamot essential oil and litsea essential oil.

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Soapy Social Media Roundup

October 16, 2016 Filed Under: Personal Ramblings

Happy Sunday! This weekend we experienced a big rain and wind storm. Because of the nasty weather, it was full of more books and inside crafts with the kids. I’m also in the middle of leading a 42 day nutrition and fitness challenge; read more about that challenge and future challenges here. With the nasty weather I’ve had lots of time for meal prep, and had the opportunity to catch up with my treadmill and weights. Check out some of my healthy and delicious meals from the week below – veggies and fish cooked lots of ways =) Everyone in the Best Day Ever challenge group is posting delicious meal photos multiple times a day. It’s easy to stay inspired when you see yummy food photos. =)

Speaking of healthy eating…are you guys ready for Halloween? 😉 I’ve been scouring Pinterest for crafty Halloween ideas to enjoy the holiday without all the sugar. Check out some of my favorite Halloween pins below, along with more crafty inspiration from Instagram and Twitter.

Pinterest:

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How cute are these Hot Glue Spider Web Coasters? Such a great idea, and they look super easy too!
These Pumpkin Spice Soaps by Seaside Soap Kitchen are adorable. I love the swirls and various shapes.
I’m off sugar for a while (42 days to be exact) but I might need to make these Pumpkin Spice Caramel Apples just because they are so pretty.
Black and white soap is so striking, as shown by this Charcoal Lemongrass Soap by Arts Market.

Instagram:
Even though we haven’t even had Thanksgiving yet (if you’re in the states that is), now is the time to make holiday gifts! I’m working on a holiday inspired butterfly swirl soap for an upcoming Bramble Berry newsletter. Sign up to see the full tutorial in the coming weeks!

If you’re a melt and pour soaper you have time on your side. But, it never hurts to be get started early! This snowflake melt and pour tutorial will be on the blog in a couple weeks.

Twitter:

This Rosette Soaps Gift Set by Mianra Soaps is a fantastic example of how beautiful packaging can really elevate an already wonderful product.
I need to make this Unicorn Poop Slime pronto!
Are you a morning person? This post may help you discover a reason to get a jump start on the day.
Speaking of jump starting the day, a healthy diet can give you more energy. Click here for some simple rules for healthy eating.
Need some soaping inspiration? Check out this video of Emily of Shieh Design Studio making Frosted Forest Soap.

Facebook and Instagram Photo of the Week (Oct. 8th ~ 14th)

October 15, 2016 Filed Under: Bramble Berry News

The home spa theme continued this week with projects like the Lavender Lotion Bars. They’re made with argan oil, avocado butter and white beeswax, which feel moisturizing and luxurious on the skin. The lavender 40/42 essential oil gives the bars a relaxing scent. They work well on dry areas like elbows, hands and feet. The bars are also ideal for traveling because they fit easily in a bag or purse.

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Soapy Social Media Roundup

October 9, 2016 Filed Under: Personal Ramblings

Happy Sunday. =) My folks are up for the weekend so it’s family, family, family. We are loving the rainy PNW fall and finding it interesting (challenging!) to find our drizzly moments to get outside and run off the kids’ energy.. Pinterest certainly comes in handy when you have read every book in the house, or have played hide-and-go-seek too many times to count. Need some rainy day ideas? My Toddler Fun Pinterest board has lots of crafty projects. I have my eyes on this Rainbow Foam Dough for later today.

Above, the whole family was able to take advantage of a dry-but-misty-day for a hike. How beautiful is that waterfall? I’m crossing my fingers that we get a few more hikes in this year before it gets too cold!

Pinterest:

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I love this “Find Joy” iPhone Wallpaper by Thyme is Honey. Such a good reminder that happiness is a choice.
Getting kids into bed can be a chore. I may need to give this Printable Evening Routine Chart a try!
There are so many creative ways to decorate pumpkins for Halloween. These DIY Paint Splattered Pumpkins caught my eye.
I’m currently leading a fitness and nutrition challenge, so sugar is off the table. But once it’s not…I may need to treat myself to a Gingerbread Cupcake.

Instagram:
The team and I have been brainstorming and testing new projects for Soap Queen TV. I think these cute doughnut bath bombs are a go! The base is colored with Rosy Pink La Bomb, and the sprinkles are created with a mixture of micas and 99% isopropyl alcohol.

I love the look of in-the-pot swirls. This swirl was created with Buttercup Mica, Magenta Mica and Slushy Blue Mica. Buttercup Mica turns orange in cold process, but returns to a light yellow.

Twitter:

Is fear holding you back? Follow these five steps to overcome it.
If you’re a gamer, or have one in your life, check out this Homemade Minecraft Creeper Soap by Simplistic Living!
It’s hard to avoid comparing yourself to others. But, social comparison can be detrimental to your mental health and small business. Learn some strategies to avoid it.
It’s officially soup season, yay! I think I need to whip up a batch of this Roasted Pumpkin Soup next week.
Need a good read? I loved this non-fiction book by Dan Lyons.

Facebook and Instagram Photo of the Week (Oct. 1st ~ 7th)

October 8, 2016 Filed Under: Bramble Berry News

The holidays can be a stressful time of year, especially for busy crafters. This week the blog featured projects that promote relaxation, like the Cucumber and Lavender Bath Bombs. They’re scented with a calming blend of Lavender 40/42 Essential Oil and Cucumber Melon Fragrance Oil. They also have skin-loving cucumber extract.

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Soapy Social Media Roundup

October 2, 2016 Filed Under: Bramble Berry News

Happy weekend! For the next few days, I’m spending time in Minneapolis with my mastermind group. What’s a mastermind group you ask? In short, it’s a support group. I recently wrote about my love of mastermind groups and how to start your own on my other blog (yep, I have another blog). You can also find more information about mastermind groups in this post, all the way from 2008. Clearly, they work for me! =) I always feel so inspired and motivated after meeting with my group.

Make everyday the best day ever with your own Best Day Ever mug!

We all need a little “treat yo’ self” day every now and then, right? Next week on the blog, be on the lookout for a series of projects for a home spa day! Recipes will include bath bombs, salt scrub, lotion bars and more. In the meantime, check out my favorite pins, tweets and ‘grams from the week.

Pinterest:

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This was the first week of my Best Day Ever Fall Challenge, so my diet has been full of veggies. This Fall Green Smoothie looks like the perfect addition!
The swirl and colors in these marble bars made by Ecohouse are so beautiful. It really looks like marble.
I love the look of sea glass, but had no idea you could create your own with spray paint! This tutorial shows you how.
The leaf pattern on this Aloe Vera Soap by Steso is so realistic. The colors are gorgeous too.

Instagram:
In need of a home spa day? Next week, look for a series of projects made with calming cucumber and lavender scents. The bath bombs below are scented with a unique blend of Cucumber Melon Fragrance Oil and Lavender 40/42 Essential Oil.

Did you catch the newest Soap Queen TV video? In the video, I show you how to make Orange and Poppy Seed Salt Scrub with my friend Courtney. It’s easy to make and smells amazing!

Twitter:

This Sun and Cloud Melt and Pour Project by Otion Soap Bar is so cute and creative!
Goldfish may seem harmless, but when introduced into they wild they cause serious biological problems. Who knew?
Homemade lunches can get a little boring. This list has some great ideas if you need to spice it up.
Think your brand is fully developed? Ask yourself these ten questions.

Facebook and Instagram Photo of the Week (Sept. 24th ~ 30th)

October 1, 2016 Filed Under: Bramble Berry News

It’s hard to believe October is here already. This week the blog featured fall-friendly tutorials like the Crescent Moon Cold Process Soap. The bars are all about contrast. They have a dark gray base and a bright yellow embed made with the Mini Moon Silicone Column Mold. They also have a touch of Gold Sparkle Mica sprinkled on top. For a smoky and complex scent, the soap has Tobacco & Bay Leaf Fragrance Oil.

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Facebook and Instagram Photo of the Week (Sept. 17th ~ 23rd)

September 24, 2016 Filed Under: Bramble Berry News

More projects made with the Autumn Frost Fragrance Collection were shared on the blog this week, including the Vermont Maple Melt and Pour Soaps. They have a classic orange and yellow color scheme, as well as plenty of shimmer dusted on top. The Vermont Maple Fragrance Oil gives them a complex and comforting scent.

The Vermont Maple Fragrance Oil is part of the limited edition Autumn Frost Fragrance Collection. It features four new fall and winter fragrance oils, and is only available until September 30th. Don’t wait – you save $10 when buying the kit rather than buying the fragrance oils separately. See the kit here.

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Soapy Social Media Roundup

September 18, 2016 Filed Under: Bramble Berry News

Happy Sunday! For the past week, the family and I have been soaking up the last bits of summer. It has been a perfect 70 ° F, although this weekend the weather is taking a turn. Looks like we might be going into the rainy season. One of the best investments this summer has been a huge plastic tarp that the kiddos have been using as a slip ‘n slide. Below, Lily is clearly enjoying the tarp, err…I mean super fancy slip ‘n slide! =) We will all be sad to see it get put away soon.

Earlier this week, I took a short trip to Washington D.C. to stay updated on some major events in the cosmetic regulatory reform discussion. Read more here. If you’d like to stay up to date on what’s happening, join the Coalition of Handmade Entrepreneurs. To help protect small businesses from harmful policy changes, I started the Coalition of Handcrafted Entrepreneurs. By joining the COHE, you will receive updates on legislative proposals to stay informed and empowered.

Pinterest:

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How beautiful is the pie crust on this Maple Apple Pie? I won’t even pretend that I could replicate that crust…but the recipe itself looks great!
I’m obsessed with these Frankenstein Halloween Soaps by Amanda with Lovin’ Soap. Such a creative idea!
I’m not sure if the mason jar trend is ever going away, and I’m okay with that. This DIY Fall Centerpiece looks chic and easy to make.
The colors in the Falling Leaves Soap by Lilac and Olive Soaps are stunning. I love the shapes of the leaves as well.

Instagram:
I’m always so impressed with the soap my team creates. I love walking into the Soap Lab and looking at all their creations. Nicole in production created this gorgeous swirled soap for a fragrance test. It obviously performed really well if it allowed her to create this stunning swirl. =)

This week was all about the new Autumn Frost Fragrance Collection, which is available until September 30th. It includes four new fragrances, including Cedar and Amber Fragrance Oil. I used the Cedar and Amber Fragrance Oil to create this rustic spoon plop soap; find the full tutorial here.

Twitter:

If you’re on Snapchat, be sure to follow Otion Soap (username: otion_soap). They have lots of great snaps of soapmaking. Check out this gorgeous hanger swirled soap.
A perfectly balanced life is a myth. Instead, it’s about priorities. This blog post by Donna Maria of Indie Business Network is spot on.
Want to make your own perfume? Check out this tutorial from Sami Jo of Poor and Pretty.
It’s amazing what quality branding can do! Read this interview with Ann Stroll, whose rebranding resulted in two West Elm LOCAL Pop Ups.
Getting fit doesn’t need to be complicated. Here are 6 simple truths I have learned.

Facebook and Instagram Photo of the Week (Sept. 10th ~ 16th)

September 17, 2016 Filed Under: Bramble Berry News

This week we introduced the new Autumn Frost Fragrance Collection. It includes four non-traditional fragrances: Cocoa Butter Cashmere Fragrance Oil, Vermont Maple Fragrance Oil, Sparkling Snowdrop Fragrance Oil and Cedar and Amber Fragrance Oil. We tested hundreds of fragrances and found the best for your fall and winter projects. Learn more about the collection in this post. Until September 30th, try the collection and save $10.

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Facebook and Instagram Photo of the Week (Sept. 3rd ~ 9th)

September 10, 2016 Filed Under: Bramble Berry News

This week was all about fall. When the temperatures start dropping, a cup of hot coffee or tea is a perfect start to the day. Coffee and tea are also great in soap. They give bars a warm color and subtle scent. You can also use coffee grounds to exfoliate the skin and coffee butter to moisturize it. Learn more in the How to Use Coffee and Tea in Soap post.

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