A Look Back On How We Began

This weekend we mark the four year anniversary of Simon's Soapbox. We've been making soap together for more than 4 years! 

Did you know that our business was launched thanks to a prize from BCIT student association?

In 2021, I (Caroline) took some business courses at a local school, BCIT. I had several years experience working in a day program where adults with developmental disabilities were supported in recreational and volunteer programs. I was dissatisfied by the limited opportunities of recreation and volunteering. I took some business classes because I wanted to build a business that would provide meaningful employment for people with developmental disabilities. 

Throughout the COVID pandemic, Simon's schedule was significantly adjusted and so we used our free time to make soap together. All this culminated in the idea for Simon's Soapbox. I submitted a pitch video and we won! 

When I watch this video 4 years later, I remember fondly how excited and hopeful I felt as we launched Simon's Soapbox (and how the sharp increase in the price of olive oil forced us to raise our prices!). Simon and I have learned so much in the past four years but some core values remain.

1. We make soap together. We are siblings and we are doing this together.
2. We work with other businesses and organizations that provide meaningful work for people with disabilities. PotteryWorks is our most longstanding partner and we've met many others along the way (BU Candles by Jacob, CallanBalm, Melly's Marketplace, the Granola Kid, The Brownie Girl, The Community Shop and more!)
3. We are committed to quality products with only the best ingredients. We use fair trade shea butter and essential oils to make amazing soap.
4. Each bar has a Swirl By Simon and a story of New Westminster's Sibling Soap Makers.

We are deeply grateful to our customers and supporters. We hope to keep you well stocked with great smelling soap for years to come!