MEET THE FOUNDER AND TEAM

Hey there. I'm Emlyn, founder and "Soap Lady" of Solid Soaps. My journey began in 2013 with a simple desire to create heartfelt Christmas gifts. I bought a melt-and-pour kit from the craft store, and I cut out fun shapes with cookie cutters. I made John a T-rex soap with a red heart. :)

That early experiment carried the same intention that guides my work today, only now, my craft is shaped by science (and maybe a little magic).

Solid Soaps officially came to life in April 2018. From the beginning, I committed myself to building a brand rooted in thoughtful formulation, environmental consciousness, and minimal waste. Each bar is created using the cold process method, with phthalate-free fragrances or essential oils, natural colorants and botanicals, and entirely vegan ingredients. I design every product with simplicity and quality in mind.

In April 2021, I stepped fully into small-business ownership, concluding my career as a clinical nurse specialist in general cardiology and heart failure. As much as I loved my job and cardiac patients, I felt like I was ready to do something different. Circumstances at work made 2021 the perfect opportunity.

The idea behind the name, Solid Soaps, is from a doodle I made on June 15, 2008 while waiting for John to finish work! It’s of my right hand (because I’m left handed).

Solid Soaps transforms an everyday task into a small ritual of luxury, making each bar a thoughtful, practical, and beautifully consumable gift. Thank you for allowing my work to be part of your daily routine.

Bar soap is here to stay, people! Make it worthwhile.

Besos, Emlyn

P.S.: I invite you to explore my awards and press page! I've never been on TV or in print until I founded Solid Soaps, so I'm mighty excited to share these milestones with you.

Claire Patrick (she/her) - Solid Soaps assistant extraordinaire

 

Claire has been working with Solid Soaps since late-March 2023. Previously in interior design and home staging, burnout had her seeking new, creative opportunities. Originally from Tyler, TX, she has lived in Austin with her husband, Chance, for 15+ years.

 

Claire helps with all the hands-on things: cutting soap, beveling, labeling, sorting, stamping, printing, packaging orders, quality control, etc. Yes, she can even make soap! She seriously can do it all. If you've bought soap from Solid Soaps, then chances are they've been graced by Claire's hands.

 

Krista McKenney (she/her) - Solid Soaps assistant
Krista started working with Solid Soaps in October 2025, and she's been fantastic! Krista helps with many hand-on tasks.

 

Salina (she/they) and Priscilla (she/her) - Solid Scents candle makers