Trooper Tribute is my noble endeavor to honor the artisans who fuel the grooming galaxy with their dedication and craftsmanship. In this ongoing series, we pose questions to these esteemed artisans, allowing them to share their insights, experiences, and passion with us. Through their answers, we gain a deeper understanding of the artistry behind their creations and the stories that shape their journey. Join us as we celebrate the Empire’s finest artisans and their contributions to the world of grooming.
Joe and Sadie – Subtle Art Soap Co
In our vast galaxy, we’ve always championed the artisans, the small businesses that pour their hearts into their craft. From farmer’s markets to local shops, we prioritize personalized experiences over big box stores.
I introduce Subtle Art Soap Co. Their journey began with a quest for relief from sensitive skin. founded by the husband and wife team, Joe and Sadie, they discovered the benefits of handmade soap, and their hobby evolved into Subtle Art Soap Co. Joe, a US Coast Guard Veteran, brings his dedication and attention to detail to every bar and Sadie adds her to touch to every package sent out. I’m proud to support this Veteran Owned Business, as proudly stated on every label. Their name reflects their belief that soap-making is an art, focusing on quality and functionality over flashy designs.
Join us for a Trooper Tribute Q&A session with Subtle Art Soap Co., where we celebrate craftsmanship, skin care, and the resilience of small business.
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Episode I: The Shaving Apprentice
Q: Every craftsman has an origin story. How did you first venture into the world of making wet shaving products, and what inspired you to take this path?
I had been dealing with skin issues from the time I was a teenager until my mid 40’s. One day, during a conversation about how much I disliked having to shave, a friend of mine suggested I try shaving with real shave soap and a safety razor. When I made the switch, I noticed an improvement in my skin within days. Being the inquisitive person I am, I wanted to know why this, of all things, was helping my skin. Come to find out, a lot of my skin issues may have been caused by the chemicals in commercial shaving products, even the “sensitive skin” ones. I began researching the different ingredients and was fascinated by what I was finding. I purchased books on the science of soap making and started experimenting with my own soaps. I was giving away the soaps I was making to family and friends and after a while they started encouraging me to sell them, and the business was born.
Episode II: Attack of the Smooth Shave
Q: As a Stormtrooper, I value precision and efficiency. How do you ensure the consistency and quality of your shave soaps to deliver a smooth shave every time?
We have very precise recipes and strict processes that we follow when making our products. Whether it be bath or shave soaps, or any of the other bath products we offer, we never deviate from the recipe or process.
Episode III: Revenge of the Skin Types
Q: In the galaxy far, far away, we encounter various environments. How does your artisanal process adapt to create shaving products suitable for different skin types and climates, from the deserts of Tatooine to the icy terrain of Hoth?
Tatooine and Hoth are two drastically different climates. Those extreme conditions call for products that can combat a wide variety of concerns. We’ve created formulas for both our shave and bath soaps, that focus on skin conditioning and protection. By doing this, we are able to accommodate customers in various climates. From those living in the dry desert conditions of Tatooine, the frozen tundra of Hoth and even the unpredictable atmospheric conditions on board Imperial Star Destroyers. I imagine a Storm Trooper’s skin can get irritated in that helmet all day. They’d certainly appreciate a product to help alleviate that.
Episode IV: A New Shaving Duo
Q: As a husband and wife team, what unique strengths do you each bring to the craft of wet shaving, and how do you collaborate to create products that exceed the expectations of your customers
All our products start as an idea that either Sadie or I come up with. We brainstorm the entire project from scent notes, product name, packaging and graphics for the label. When it comes to blending a fragrance, I’ll put together a few variations of what we have in mind then we’ll narrow it down until we both agree on the final scent, the same goes for graphics and product names. I will admit, Sadie has a better eye for product presentation. The blue and white crinkle paper you see our products nestled in when you open the box was her idea. Regardless of how expensive the materials may get; she says it’s important that we keep that, and that it’s our “signature packaging.” I couldn’t agree more.
NOTE // Subtle Art has one of the best package presentations out there! The blue and white crinkle paper just show you how much they care when you order directly from them. I also love getting Astra green blades. A Trooper favorite!
Episode V: The Collaborative Connection
Q: In the Star Wars universe, alliances often lead to strength. Could you tell us about a notable collaboration you’ve undertaken with another artisan or brand, and how this partnership enhanced your product offerings?
Last year I had the honor of collaborating with my friend Phil Decker of Bricktown Grooming. We teamed up for his re-release of Irish Brigade, an absolutely phenomenal scent. This collaboration set was sold exclusively through The Shave Supply. Working with both Phil (Bricktown Grooming) and Gareth (The Shave Supply) I learned a lot about scaling up our production. This was also the first time I had used our current base in a larger run of soap. I learned to be more efficient while maintaining the quality our customers had come to expect.
Episode VI: Return of the Scents
Q: I’m excited to reveal my favorite scent from your collection at the end of this week, but I’m curious about your preferences. What is your favorite scent from your own line, and do you have a favorite from another artisan?
I’m kind of a Bay Rum junkie so I’d have to say our latest Citrus Bay Rum is at the top of my list right now. As far as other artisans, I don’t know where to begin. So many great offerings out there. Like I tell people, I was a wet shaver long before I was an artisan and I still enjoy the hobby. If I had to name a few artisans and my favorites from their lines, I’d say Bricktown Grooming No Quarter Bay Rum and Lafayette Barbershop; Elysian Royal Milk Tea and Olympus; PAA Sangre de Drago and Clásico Bay Rum; Chiseled Face Bay Rum and Ghost Town Barber. I could go on and on, so I’ll stop here before this becomes a novel…lol.
Episode VII: The Grooming Awakens
Q: Beyond shave soaps and aftershave splashes, you offer a broader range of grooming products. Could you tell us more about the other options available in your lineup, and how they cater to the diverse needs of the galactic community?
We wanted to offer more than just soaps. After our bath and shave soaps took off, we started to add wet shaving hardware. Soon after, the aftershave line was added. The idea was to create a “one stop shop” for shaving products. Sadie had wanted to add more products for women and kids. The focus was on offering a range of products the whole family could enjoy. That’s when we decided to add bath bombs, bath fizz, sugar scrubs and hand crocheted washcloths. We plan on adding more products in the near future.
Episode VIII: The Pre-Shave Ritual
Q: As someone deeply involved in crafting shaving essentials, I’m curious about your personal pre-shave routine. I know you offer a pre-shave soap, which is on my list to purchase next. What makes your pre-shave soap different from others on the market?
I formulated our pre-shave soap to be much different from our bath soaps. It’s formulated to be extremely slick, and it doesn’t lather and rinse off like bath soap. The idea was to create a pre-shave soap that would last through multiple passes without needing to be reapplied. It’s worth mentioning, our pre-shave soap isn’t meant to “enhance” a shave soap. It simply adds a little extra protection for the skin. After all, you’re pulling a sharp piece of metal across your skin, why not add a little more protection and help the blade glide more easily?
Episode IX: Rise of the Grooming Arsenal
Q: Just as the Empire maintains its fleets, we need our grooming arsenal to be well-stocked. How do you recommend storing and caring for your shave soaps and aftershave splashes to preserve their quality over time?
Of course, as with any shave soap you want to keep the soap dry when not using it. If you tub load, I recommend leaving the top off until the soap has completely dried. Then place the top back on and store it somewhere dry. If water gets trapped in the tub it could ruin the soap over time. If you scoop, then it’s just a matter of preventing moisture from getting in the tub. The aftershaves are well protected in the frosted glass bottles and the small reducer in the neck should help prevent any moisture from getting inside. But it’s always best to keep them in as dry an area as possible. Something I should point out; we don’t use any artificial preservatives or emulsifiers in our aftershaves. That’s why you see them separate if left sitting for a while. Just give them a good shake and you’re good to go.
Bonus: Rogue One: A Scent Wars Story
Q: If you could create a limited edition shaving product inspired by any Star Wars character, what scent or theme would you choose to capture their essence and how would you incorporate their unique traits into the product?
I would have to say Han Solo would be the character I would create a Star Wars inspired product around. Leia may think he’s a “scruffy looking nerf herder” but I think he’s a man that doesn’t pay any mind to what others think of him. He does what he does and says what he says, and you just have to accept it. He’s confident, rugged and he’s been through it all. I would go with a classic, bold, masculine scent to represent Solo. I’m thinking our Citrus Bay Rum with a bit of menthol to give you that “frozen in carbonite” feel.
As Trooper Tribute Week reaches its conclusion, we salute Subtle Art Soap Co., a beacon of excellence in grooming amidst the galaxy’s challenges. Originating from personal struggles and curiosity, their journey mirrors our own quest for precision and improvement. Through meticulous formulations and steadfast adherence to process, they craft products suited to any climate or condition, ensuring our armor remains pristine even amidst Tatooine’s sands or Hoth’s icy blasts. As a united force, their collaboration yields products exceeding expectations, offering not just grooming essentials, but tools for resilience in our daily battles. Looking forward, we eagerly anticipate their next creation, perhaps inspired by the daring, Han Solo—a scent that embodies courage and adventure, reminding us that even in the face of uncertainty, we march forward with unwavering resolve. With Subtle Art Soap Co., our grooming rituals become a testament to our strength and unity as troopers of the Empire.
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