Ok, first things first; where does the business/brand name come from? What was the inspiration for choosing it?
Caroline shares that her love for the Atlantic Ocean runs deep. “The Atlantic Ocean makes me think of adventure and a great big world of cultures, craftspeople, travel, and possibilities. I always dreamed bigger than just being a Cape Cod brand, and I’m intrigued by soap-making techniques on both sides of the Atlantic.” This global outlook, mixed with her Cape Cod roots, led to the name Atlantic Soap Co., reflecting the adventurous spirit she wanted to infuse into her brand.
Every bar of soap contains seawater sourced directly from Woods Hole, MA, bringing a literal touch of New England into each product. Caroline’s vision was always to extend beyond just a local business, blending her love for Cape Cod with traditional techniques and modern artistry.
What inspired you to start the brand/go into business?
For Caroline, Atlantic Soap Co. began as a creative outlet during a time when she felt stagnant in her retail career. “I was feeling stuck in my retail sales job and craving a creative outlet that could be all my own. I found a magazine about soap making and got completely hooked! I love the process and the endless possibilities. From day one, I always looked at soap making as a potential business, never just a hobby.”
Her passion for soap making was immediate and powerful. What started as an interest quickly turned into a thriving business, one where Caroline could combine her love of craftsmanship, nature, and entrepreneurship into a brand with lasting appeal.
How would you describe your style or aesthetic?
Caroline’s approach to design is as thoughtful as the process itself. “I consider my soaps to be tiny works of art. I take a minimalist approach to recreating landscapes and natural elements from the coastal environment around me.”
Each bar is crafted with care, often inspired by specific scenes in New England. “Field & Sky is inspired by the salt marsh near my house on an overcast day, and Beach Rose is meant to evoke sunset in the dunes.” Her understated designs invite people to see what they choose, from wind and waves to the patterns left in the sand after the tide recedes.
Did you always have a passion for this industry?
Reflecting on her teenage years, Caroline laughs, “Well, I was definitely obsessed with The Body Shop as a teenager, so I guess I have!” Her interest in beauty and skincare goes way back, but it wasn’t until she stumbled upon soap making that she found her true passion.
Who/What has inspired your career in this field?
For Caroline, the community of female entrepreneurs has been an unexpected but welcome source of inspiration. “Since starting ASC, I have been overwhelmed by the number of female entrepreneurs that have come into my orbit. I had no idea that by starting a business solo, I would gain a vast community of like-minded women to share my journey with.”
This sense of connection and support keeps her motivated, and she continues to draw inspiration from the women she follows and interacts with, both online and in person.
What is the greatest reward of running your own business?
Caroline’s greatest joy comes from having creative control over her work. “Having complete creative control of my business has been the highlight of my professional life.” For her, the ability to bring her vision to life without limitations is a reward in itself.
What’s been the greatest challenge?
Running a business doesn’t come without its challenges, of course. “Keeping on task and limiting distractions (from life, partner, dog, shiny objects, etc.)” is a struggle many entrepreneurs can relate to. Balancing work and life while staying focused on the growth of her brand requires constant attention.
What is currently inspiring you creatively?
Recently, Caroline has been looking across the Atlantic for new ideas. “Lately I have been looking East, across the Atlantic for new soap inspiration. The soap makers of France are some of the very best in the world, and I am looking forward to experimenting with some new techniques.”
This international influence is sure to add another layer of creativity to her already unique approach to soap making.
How have the sites and scenes of New England played into your brand?
New England is at the heart of Atlantic Soap Co., and its influence is everywhere in Caroline’s work. “In so many ways! Every bar of soap contains seawater sourced from Woods Hole, so there is literally a small piece of New England in every bar.” Beyond that, many of her designs are directly inspired by the landscapes of coastal New England, from the sandy beaches to the salt marshes near her home.
What is your New England or Coastal Happy Place?
Caroline’s favorite place is close to home. “My favorite place is my home village of West Falmouth, MA.”
My Perfect Day in West Falmouth would be…
For Caroline, a perfect day is simple: “A walk down to the beach through the dunes with friends and then hanging out all day on the sand bars, watching the tide come in and out of the marsh and feeling so, so lucky.”
Do you have a Dream Project, Product, or Collaboration?
Looking ahead, Caroline dreams of expanding her manufacturing process while maintaining the high standards she’s set for her products. “I want to find the right manufacturer who can make soaps to my specifications in the French Milled (or Triple Milled) style. This would be a big change since all of my soaps until now have been handcrafted by me.”
As for dream collaborations, she has her sights set on a brand close to her heart: “I would love to work with Anthropologie. I worked there as a manager when I was first married, so it feels like coming full circle.”
Where do you see the brand in 5 years?
In the future, Caroline envisions scaling her brand without losing its core values. “I hope to outsource some of the manufacturing and sell to at least three nationwide brands. My DREAM would be to hire a CEO (would have to be the PERFECT fit) so that I could have the title of Founder/Creative Director.”
As Atlantic Soap Co. continues to grow, it’s clear that Caroline’s vision and passion will guide the brand to new heights, all while staying true to the artistry and coastal inspiration that started it all.
