Meet Ellen Dahl: Ellen Ruth Soap
At Bulk Apothecary, we take immense pride in supporting and showcasing the brilliant makers whom we have the honor of supplying with all the ingredients they need to create. Each month, we shine a spotlight on one of these creative souls, sharing their inspiring journey with the world. This month we talked with Ellen about her cold process soap creations.
This month, we’re thrilled to introduce you to Ellen Dahl, owner of Ellen Ruth Soap, an amazing talent in the maker community. Ellen’s story on why and how she has created a business creating beautiful cold process soaps has left us in awe, and we can’t wait to share her story with you!
Ellen Ruth Soap are made in small batches by Ellen Ruth in her soap studio. She loves to create luxurious bath and body products that are full of beneficial ingredients. Quality is an absolute priority.
Ellen, we are so excited to showcase you this month. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
I’m Ellen Dahl, owner and founder of Ellen Ruth Soap. I’m a retired homeschool mom of four. And my first batch of cold process soap was a chemistry lesson for my children. I loved it so much it quickly became a hobby. Which then produced more soap than we could use, so I started selling at local farmers markets. I eventually opened up a website store, and 4 years ago I started my YouTube channel. As of 2024, I’ve retired from the retail side of my business, so I can focus on my YouTube content and family.
What was the big thing that inspired you to start creating and selling your products?
I started making soap as a homeschool science project with my children in 2003. And loved it so much that I never stopped making them. Having lots of inventory drove me to sell.
I love that it all started as a lesson, what do you love most about creating your cold process soaps?
Two things, first, the science behind making cold process soaps fascinates me. I love the way the ingredients react together. The second thing I love is the creativity of soap making. I am always getting to explore my creative side to create new products.
What is your personal favorite product you have created?
It is hard to pick just one, but through my cold process Soap making journey, I have always favored my Goat Milk Chocolate Lavender soap.
What is your favorite Bulk Apothecary product and how do you use it in your business?
There are so many products I have learned to love and trust when making my soaps, that it is hard to pick one. I do love the selection of Candle waxes. Of course, Cold Process soap oils & butters are key ingredients I always come back for. The Mica Colorants and fragrances are a fun way to get creative as well.
What is one piece of advice that has helped you in your business?
The best piece of advice I have received is simply to research, research, research, and love what you do.
What is one piece of advice that has helped you in your business?
Really lean into the whole process of making and enjoying. Watching other YouTubers teach on how to have a channel, run a business, and more. Don’t reinvent the wheel, there are a ton of tutorials out there for cold process soap making and more.
What are some of the biggest challenges you and your business face?
I’m 58, so there was no internet when I grew up.. no cell phones… It’s the “old dog learning new tricks” issue for me…. Ironically, with the help of the internet and YouTube, I’ve been able to learn and grow in this area. Anything that takes me out of the soap studio and puts me in front of a computer has been a challenge. But I am learning.
What was your inspiration behind the name of your company?
My children chose it. I always thought my middle name was too “old fashioned” but my family thought it had the right feel for my products.
What is your favorite part of the creative process? Least favorite?
My favorite is getting inspiration from so many things. Like nature, a stormy day, blossoms, the ocean…. My least favorite is getting overwhelmed with all the possibilities.
From where do you draw your inspiration to create your products?
Usually, it’s a scent or a color that will grab me. Nature is a huge inspiration.
What values does your business embody?
Joy, happiness and kindness. I want people to watch my videos and be encouraged. There’s so much stress and negativity in our environments, I want my YouTube videos to be a safe place to relax, learn, and enjoy. And maybe have some fun too! Plus, you get a fabulous product for your efforts!
Do you have any words of wisdom to offer any aspiring makers?
Start small, and try lots of different recipes. And have fun!
If you want to learn more about Cold Process Soap Making check out, Lavender Cold Process Soap Recipe
