RavenSong Soap and Candle : Valerie Lamirande

I was born and raised on Haida Gwaii, a remote group of islands off the north coast of British Columbia. I am from the Raven Clan of Skedans, and my given Haida name is Slin_ga a Jaad. My name means “Creative Girl” – and my life experience has certainly lived up to it.

In the years since I left Haida Gwaii, I’ve studied cosmetology, worked in the beauty care industry, travelled and taught in Japan, developed businesses and co-ordinated events ranging from real estate to international food shows.

My inherent interest in art has had a wide-range – from sand-art to knitting, photography to woodworking, jewelry making to decorating. I’ve loved all of them for the opportunity to work with my hands, but none of them stuck as the obvious match for my creative spirit, until ...

… the spring of 2003, a friend dropped off a thank you gift for me. It was a bar of handmade soap – and I clearly remember her placing that beautiful bar into the palm of my hand. I was awestruck. That weekend we went on a scavenger hunt and gathered the necessary supplies – sodium hydroxide from Home Hardware, beeswax from the health food store, oils from the grocery store and plastic drawer organizers for molds. We had so much fun making those first few batches and it ignited a passion that has become RavenSong Soap.

I’ve spent countless hours since then building my knowledge – by attending lessons, conferences and enrolling in the West coast Institute of Aromatherapy. It’s been a big step for me to turn this creative pastime into a full-fledged business. I’m so excited to share the passion I have creating these soaps with the world.

A little bit of chemistry, a little bit of cooking, add some colour, design, texture and scent – and you can see why soap making is such a wonderful artistic outlet for me. I hope you enjoy RavenSong Soap as much as I enjoy making it for you.