Meet Claudia Jaramillo | Aromatherapist and Professional Soap Maker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Claudia Jaramillo and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Claudia, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
It all started with the real estate crisis of 2008 when I was a mortgage broker, and things were going great, but there was a significant change that year. After introspection, I decided to change radically and began to think about what I loved and what moved my heart and soul.

I began to think that my hidden passion was healthy things that provide physical and emotional benefits. I decided to study aromatherapy with much support from my husband; based on his concepts as a physician, I decided that this was the way to my future.

After studying and becoming certified as an aromatherapist, I found a beautiful book about manufacturing handcrafted soaps based on olive oil. That was the story’s beginning that has been going on for 12 years.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Handcrafted soaps are art with factors as diverse as culinary skills, a sense of aesthetics and color, chemical knowledge, patience, and respect for nature. Above all, the knowledge of the skin, its problems, and solutions. Starting a business is never easy, but it culminates in years of hard work and dedication. My company “Sage Handmade,” which specializes in handmade soap, is the result of my constant study and commitment to perfecting my craft.
When I first became interested in soap making. I was fascinated by the different ingredients, scents, and textures that could be used to create unique and luxurious soaps. I began experimenting with other recipes and techniques, and before long, I had developed a beautiful and nourishing line of soaps for the skin.
But my journey didn’t stop there. I knew that to succeed in this industry truly, I needed to continue learning and growing. I invested in classes and workshops, read books and articles, and sought out the advice of other soap makers. I also did much research on the latest trends in the industry to stay up to date with the latest innovations.
The road has not been easy, not only because of the amount of knowledge required in terms of the elaboration itself but also because it is a challenge to create a website, learn to manage social media, sales channels, packaging, distribution, advertisements, in short, I want to recognize that I have left many tears along the way.
All this hard work paid off when I finally launched my own business. I was confident in my abilities and knew my soaps were of the highest quality. My soaps are always based on olive oil through a process named “Cold Process Soap” These are handmade soaps made by mixing oils, water, and lye to create a chemical reaction known as saponification. One of the main benefits of this process is retaining the natural glycerin produced during saponification, which helps moisturize and nourish the skin.
Olive oil is a popular ingredient because it is high in antioxidants and vitamin E, which can help to protect the skin from damage and improve its overall appearance. In addition, olive oil is gentle and hypoallergenic, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
I am very proud of my soaps because I have received many wonderful comments from people who have used them, not only because they look cute and smell amazing but because they report a significant change in their skin. Many of my clients tell me they are addictive, and if they use another type of soap, their skin feels dry again.
The only option I have had to overcome all the above has been studying, patience, and perseverance. I stay focused and strengthen day by day the desire to achieve the dream of having a brand of handcrafted soaps that is synonymous with perfection, beauty, respect for nature, and above all, the highest quality.
As I said, it hasn’t always been easy, but my dedication and commitment to my craft have helped me to overcome any obstacles that have come my way. And I am proud to say that my business is now a true reflection of my passion and hard work. I want to encourage others thinking about starting a business to go for it and never give up on their dreams. With hard work, dedication and perseverance, anything is possible.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Living in South Florida is one of the most touristic places. Therefore, it is essential to consider the taste and personalities of visitors. Miami is a cheerful and beautiful city; it would be a must of the tour to visit South Beach, the beaches, and Wynwood with its Wall Art, restaurants, and bars.
It is also important to note that most tourists associate South Florida with shopping; therefore, Aventura Mall, Dolphin Mall, or Sawgrass Mills would be on tour.
As my specific area is Pembroke Pines, I would take them to The Shops at Pembroke Gardens; I love that place and its restaurants.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

Starting a business is a big step, and it can be challenging, but it can also be gratifying. As an entrepreneur who has recently launched a handcrafted soap business, I am grateful for the support of my husband, friends, and family.
From the very beginning, my husband has been my rock. He has always believed in me and my abilities and has been my biggest supporter. He has helped me with everything from brainstorming ideas to packaging and shipping orders. Without his constant encouragement and assistance, I wonder if I would have had the confidence to take the leap and start my own business.
My family and friends have also been incredibly supportive and understanding. They have been there for me through the ups and downs of starting a business and have always been there to lend a helping hand. They have helped me with everything from testing my soaps to giving me valuable feedback on my packaging and branding.
The support of my loved ones has been invaluable to me, and I am genuinely grateful for it. Starting a business can be a rollercoaster of emotions and can be challenging.
I am excited about what the future holds for my business, and I look forward to continuing to create high-quality natural soaps that my customers love.

Website: www.sagehandmade.com

Instagram: @sagehandmade_soaps

Facebook: @SageHandMade.Soaps

Image Credits
Claudia V. Jaramillo