I’m excited to be shipping out cookbooks, and my thoughts are drifting toward all things floral—just like my mood! Here in Middle America, lilacs are one of the first spring flowers to bloom, setting the stage for the rest of the flower kingdom. But being first certainly has its perks! Their sweet fragrance floats through the spring breeze, and their delicate purple petals naturally gather into the perfect little bouquet.
If you’re a foraging enthusiast, it’s almost time to gear up! The ground still needs a bit more moisture, but after a good rain and some warmer temps, they’ll start popping. And you can bet this soap maker will be lacing up her hiking boots for the hunt! I love how some joys remain timeless—mushroom hunting always takes me back to the cherished memories of searching with my mom and dad. Some traditions never fade, and for that, I’m grateful. 🍄✨
The humble little wild violet is first to bloom too. I'm in awe on how God created such beautiful things! These flowers are masterpieces and Spring bounces with their beauty!
I haven’t officially announced it yet, but I’m gearing up for our Birthday Bash at the shop! To celebrate, I’ll be putting together a few special Spring gifts for our first customers. I’ve been reflecting on how traditions like hostess gifts and giveaways have faded over time, and honestly, it makes me a little sad. Rising costs—whether it’s credit card fees, proposed sales tax increases, or supply chain expenses—have changed so much, and in my 28 years of business, I’ve never seen anything quite like this.
Small businesses are taking the brunt of it all, and the only real option is to adjust, which often means raising prices. At Bittersweet, we’ve always been committed to keeping our products affordable while maintaining exceptional quality, so we’re making adjustments in other ways, including cutting back on outsourcing.
I mentioned in a recent post that I believe a shift is happening, and it’s going to challenge many small businesses to stay afloat. This isn’t a negative outlook, just a realistic one. More than ever, small businesses need community support to continue doing what they love. So, as we head into our 28th year, I’m holding onto the traditions that make Bittersweet special while embracing change with an open heart. Here’s to celebrating, adapting, and continuing this journey together! 🎉✨
I'm returning a few of our past collections simply because they stand out from the crowd.
We have a new Lip Balm and I believe it's one of my favorites to date. That's saying a lot because we've made more than a handful of unique flavors.
I planted hollyhocks last spring and to my surprise, it started blooming. I started this plant from seed and was excited when it grew tall and bloomed.
This world of Bittersweet never ceases to amaze me! I remember when this little business was founded and how far it's come.
Twenty-eight years ago, Bittersweet was just a dream, sparked by a passion for natural skincare and a desire to create something meaningful. What began with a simple bar of handmade soap has grown into a thriving small business that proudly offers clean, handcrafted products that nourish the skin and uplift the spirit. Looking back, it's remarkable to see how far we've come. Each bar of soap, bottle of lotion, and jar of cream has been lovingly made by hand, using the finest ingredients nature has to offer. But Bittersweet is more than just a soap shop. It's a reflection of dedication, creativity, and a belief in the beauty of simplicity.
Over the years, we’ve navigated shifts in the market, embraced change, and remained steadfast in our mission to provide products that make people feel good in their own skin. We’ve celebrated milestones, welcomed new creations, and met incredible customers who have become like family. This 28th birthday is a celebration of all those moments — the early mornings spent making soap, the joy of seeing new scents come to life, and the pride of knowing our products bring comfort and joy to so many.
As we step into this new chapter, we carry the same passion and excitement that started it all. Thank you for supporting Bittersweet, for believing in the power of handmade, and for being a part of our journey. Here's to many more years of crafting, creating, and celebrating the beauty of natural skincare. Happy 28th Birthday, Bittersweet!
With heartfelt gratitude,
Jill
