I’ve always loved sharing the work of makers who pour heart and soul into what they create, and I can’t think of a better place to start than Mimi from Raw Batch Soaps.

I first came across Mimi on Instagram over eight years ago, drawn in by her handmade soaps and how naturally they aligned with what I love. Her soaps, made with care and natural ingredients, have been part of Tomolly ever since and a favourite in so many homes.

Beyond just being beautiful to use, Mimi’s soaps tell a story—one of tradition, simplicity, and the love that goes into making something by hand. I asked Mimi a few questions about her journey, her inspiration, and what handmade means to her. I hope you enjoy her story as much as I did.

What first inspired you to start making soap?

"My mum played a huge role in inspiring me to start making soap. She was resourceful and believed in making things from scratch out of necessity, using simple, natural ingredients. Watching her create with care and intention taught me the value of self-sufficiency and ingenuity. Soap-making brings an immense feeling of satisfaction, and it’s also a way to carry on what my mum taught me and honour her by crafting something beautiful and beneficial."

Your soaps are part of people’s daily rituals. What’s a small daily ritual you love?

"One of my favourite small rituals is lathering up with a beautifully scented soap and taking a moment to appreciate the sensory experience. The rich, bubbly lather, the aroma, and knowing that I'm using natural ingredients on my skin create a moment of gratitude and a reminder to be present. It’s an act of self-care that not only cleanses the body but also nourishes the soul, turning an everyday routine into something meaningful and grounding."

How do you choose the ingredients and scents for your soaps?

"My inspiration comes from nature, childhood memories, and the simple joys of daily life. I think back to mornings when milk was delivered, my mum cooking in the kitchen, and her tending to her garden. These moments instilled in me a deep appreciation for wholesome, natural ingredients. I also find inspiration in cooking shows; the colours, textures, and aromas found in nature guide me in creating soaps that feel both nurturing and comforting."

What does ‘handmade’ mean to you, and why is it important?

"Handmade means intention, care, and a personal touch that can’t be replicated by machines. It’s about thoughtfully selecting each ingredient and embracing the small imperfections. Handmade carries a sense of connection to the process, to the ingredients, and to the people who use the final product. It’s important because it brings authenticity, quality, and a feeling of warmth and craftsmanship that mass-produced items simply don’t have. Every bar of soap is a reflection of creativity, tradition, and the beauty of making something with your own hands."

If you had to describe your soaps in three words, what would they be?

"Wholesome, earthy, and nourishing. Wholesome, because they are made with thoughtfully chosen, natural ingredients. Earthy, as they draw inspiration from nature. And nourishing, because each bar is designed not just to cleanse but to comfort, soothe, and turn a simple daily ritual into a moment of pure self-care."

A Little Inspiration to Leave You With 💭

"When we create with our hands, we leave a little bit of ourselves in everything we make." 

~ unknown