Today we’d like to introduce you to Gail DeGuzman Susa.
Hi Gail, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I started making cold processed soap out of the curiosity of making something more natural for my skin. As someone who has suffered from eczema, acne, and oily skin, I can testify that going natural is the way to go! After much researching, I found that if you keep a bar of soap to it’s true ingredients, the less it strips away from your natural oils and good bacteria. When I saw results on my own skin, I knew I had to share this with everyone. I started sharing with my family, friends and neighbors. Many of my neighbors bought my soaps for their kids or family members that were suffering from skin irritation and returned with great results. I then decided to start a small business, which I named, Goodie Skins. I started selling at my local Forney Market and have done pop-ups all over DFW. I then opened up a website so that my customers can have my products delivered right at their door! This business has really given me the opportunity to become creative and also connect with my community.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
This is my first small business I can call my own, so of course there were some struggles along the way. I learned right away that there are many things that come with owning a business and you may not know about it until you read about it or speak with other business owners. That is why it’s important to find a community that will support you and find your best interests. I feel lucky to have started in Forney, TX. It’s a growing community and so I feel like everyone here is just starting something and we can all relate. Every day is a learning day and every change in the business or product is a step forward from before. One thing I learned from struggling is that I should never compare myself to any other businesses. We are all in different eras of our business. Celebrate the wins and learn and move on from the mistakes.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I specialized in cold processed natural soap. I also create bath bombs, shower steamers, lotion, lip balm, lotion bars, sugar scrubs, face masks, and gift sets. I’m always trying new things to make. I love getting creative with how I can use soap as a canvas for art as well. I’ve made some pretty unique soaps in the past. I’ve done customs orders for birthday parties in which I made the soaps look like cupcakes. I’ve created holiday themed Grinch, Harry Potter, & Hocus Pocus soaps. Some other crazy designs include a soap that looks like cereal, a potted plant of succulents and a gingerbread house. Not only is my soap great for your skin, you’re also taking a piece of art home.
Speaking of art, I am now teaching at the Forney Arts House on The Art of Cold Processed Soap. If you would like to learn the basics on how to make soap or just want a fun activity to do, you should sign up!
I think a big part of my business is community centered. When someone is looking for a particular product and I don’t have it I do a bunch of research and sometimes try to make it, if there is enough demand for it. Everyone loves looking out for our mini red Kei truck when we go to markets. It’s how all our returning and new customers find us. It’s where soap and car enthusiasts collide. My husband is very supportive and lets me use the truck on market days.. It doubles as advertisement for his mobile mechanic business as well. Now that you know what to look out for, come see us at the market!
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
You can support me by visiting me at the local markets and events I vend at. I am always at the Forney market. I have recently started teaching at the Forney Arts House. Come take a fun class on soap making and maybe enjoy a fun seasonal soap making activity! I also do custom orders and party favors, reach out if interested! You can always reach me through instagram or my email. Lastly, you can always purchase products on my website to be delivered at your door! www.goodieskins.com
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.goodieskins.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodie.skins/
- Other: https://forneyarts.getcommunal.com/parent_programs?sort=recommended
