Six Questions With Herbal By Nature's Mariha Falconer

Chatting with an Artisan Soap Maker

In my late 30s I began having headaches, skin issues and mood fluctuations. While some of this I attributed to general stress and an unhappy work / life balance, the health issues led me to start reading the labels on products I was using daily. This in turn led to my discovery that many of the items I was using daily - even so called natural products, contained toxic ingredients.

1) What path led you to soapmaking?

I've always had a curious and creative nature, so I took up soap-making as a hobby. Once I made that first batch of soap with 4 simple gentle ingredients, I never looked back! I learned I could create nearly every product I order or buy in the store.

2) Your shop has a calm, welcoming environment. Can you speak to your process in designing the space?

I began collecting repurposed chic shabby, rustic boho decor the year prior because I knew I wanted to do something more permanent with my business. The store is filled with decor and colors that make me feel like I am home-inviting, calm and rustic.

3) Many of your soaps are made with essential oils, fragrances and plants believed to have positive qualities. Do clients come to you seeking information about choosing soaps based on various qualities or otherwise looking to address patterns of imbalance?

I use ingredients I have learned and believe bring in their own supportive factors. Customers do come with many questions. While I am not able to make medical claims, I can suggest certain supportive ingredients and products that may help reduce some complaints being experienced or suggest a soothing item or essential oil etc.

I craft every item with care and intention. I strive to keep everything affordable, simple, and enjoyable. Bringing my love of handcrafted products into a downtown brick and mortar store is truly a blessing for me.

4) Do you see yourself doing any teaching, or courses, in the future?

Providing small workshops is part of my long term business goals. I'd love to bring the gift of creating a simple natural product to our community. I hope to move forward with this aspect of Herbal By Nature in the coming year.

5) Will you keep your Farmers Market booth this year or will you encourage FM patrons to head to your shop?

I do plan on maintaining a market booth on rotating Fridays. My store is very near to the street the HBN booth is located. We will see how the first month of market goes and receive customer feedback.

6) Can you give any tips to entrepreneurs looking to start a new business in Pendleton?

My advice: Go for it! If you have a passion and a will, then there will most definitely be a way. The path presents itself to those noble, capable and passionate about what they want to do. Make a plan, set an intention, find the space and go for it.

Herbal By Nature is located at 45 SE Emigrant Ave.

Note, this article was first published in the Pendleton Downtown Association Newsletter.