By Donna McIntyre
Two rural women who have done well working other people into a lather about their business, but not themselves, are Kay Parker and Dixie Boraman of Lavish Soap.
The neighbours started making soap as a hobby in the kitchens of their North Otago homes.
``Our first attempts were not encouraging,'' says Dixie. ``One cake of soap looked like pate and smelt like the Sunday roasting dish.
``However, this only motivated us to get it better. It took us a year to get a base recipe we were happy with. My hens ate a few trial runs.
``The most difficult thing was sourcing ingredients. We wanted to make something natural without preservatives or fixatives and ingredients had to be organic if possible.''
Word soon spread about the business. ``I think if we had tried to undertake an enterprise like this in the city, it wouldn't have worked,'' says Dixie. ``Oamaru people are also supportive and enjoy being able to buy a locally-made product as a gift for friends and family.''
They find the best time to make soap is in the cooler months, as it sets better. Lavish Soap is made in small batches and hand stirred. When firm, the soaps are sliced and left to sit for five weeks to harden.
One reason the soap is popular is that it can be used by people with sensitive skin. Lavish's goat's milk and almond bars, which people with eczema and psoriasis have found soothing, was featured on One News a couple of years ago, which led to a jump in orders and gave Kay and Dixie the confidence to resign from their other part-time jobs.
When they get big orders, they call on local women to help. ``We supply all the ingredients and equipment and they make it in their own time,'' says Dixie.
Kay and Dixie have some tips for anyone considering a similar business. ``We initially went to a lot of market days and discussed with customers their preferences ... and the internet is a great tool for anyone, especially in the country.''
Plus a word of caution: ``I would recommend anyone looking at setting up their own business, no matter what size, to think carefully about what they call it,'' says Dixie.
``We ran into problems as another New Zealand company had trademarked the name Lavish and wasn't willing to negotiate with us.
``However, we had been using the name Lavish prior to their registration, so we were able to continue using it.''
As well as their website, they now have a shop in Oamaru. Lavish Soap is also distributed through health- food stores and pharmacies nationwide.
They say they would like the business to grow to a point where it earns them both an average wage.
``This is certainly our goal, but we don't want to reach it if it means compromising on our lifestyle or values.''
More information: www.lavishsoaps.co.nz
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