A little story:
A long time ago (circa 2001) I decided to open a gift store in Fort Worth TX. A newly single mom, I naturally wanted my store to be a success and I definitely listened to what my customers were asking me to stock.
I purchased a lot of amazing items at the Dallas Market. But some categories were more difficult. A lot of products have protected territories, or were very expensive (to stock and to sell) and for a new little store...well, it just didn't add up.
After time, I got frustrated with the lack of quality and the choices that were available to me. I've always been a creative so I thought 'how hard can it be?' and dove right in.
Only to find, that yes, it is MUCH harder than I thought. And also much more expensive. But, I was already addicted to the idea of making unique and quality products. AND, I'd also already noticed that what I was making and stocking were very popular. Customers quickly bought me out of my products and were asking for more. More scents, more choices and I listened.
One product (Jar Candles) lead to more, and before long, I was making over 750 different products (If you count scents). In 2008, due to the economy tanking, I decided to close the store. But I didn't close up shop entirely. I just moved my handmade business online. First to my website, then to Etsy and finally to Amazon Handmade, too.
Now, truthfully I'd love to have a storefront again. There's actually nothing more rewarding to help someone find that perfect gift for someone or watch them fall in love with a new fragrance. But for now, that's only a dream. I'm still making the very best that I can with the very best ingredients that I can source. Unlike some shops, I do custom blend fragrances. I create my product recipes out of natural oils & butters. I strive to make everything as wonderful as possible.
I like to say that if my products aren't good enough for my family, they aren't good enough for yours. And that goal keeps me motivated to do better each & every day. I also like to bring out new products from time to time. In 2021, I refreshed my lip balm offerings including some brand new flavors like Purple Cow, Sangria and Citrus Smoothie. Bubble Wash returned, too. And in 2022, I've brought back my lovely soap, reintroduced Reed Diffusers and created a few new scents & flavors, too. New is good. But great is...well great! Everything is always being reviewed & evaluated to make sure that you're happy and to find new fragrances to entice. For 2023? Well, glad you asked! Sugar Whip Soap is coming back. Just need to find time (and good light) to take the photos!
I hope you find some amazing products that you will adore. I encourage you to check out my feedback on Etsy (where I've been since 2009) and as always, let me know if you have any questions. I'm still a one woman shop. But I do care about your happiness and your business. Let me know if you have any questions & thank you for your time!
Cari, Owner/Coquette Bath & Home™
New stuff: October 2021
