From Boo at the Zoo to the Delaware Museum of Nature and Science: The Story Behind Basically Soap’s Growing Partnership

How it all started

It was Boo at the Zoo at Brandywine Zoo in Wilmington, Delaware. I was set up as a vendor, soaps displayed and ready, when the museum’s buyer walked by. She was drawn in by the scent first — that unmistakable pull of a well-crafted bar — and then she saw the designs. Fun. Intentional. Each one telling its own story. But what really caught her attention was what went into them: aloe, colloidal oatmeal, turmeric, bentonite clay, and more. Real ingredients with real purpose.

That moment of connection led to a partnership with the Delaware Museum of Nature and Science that I am incredibly proud of. And it keeps growing.

The latest delivery — and a bittersweet moment

This most recent delivery was special for more than one reason. Not only was I bringing another order to the museum, but it was also the buyer’s last day. The woman who first believed in Basically Soap enough to bring it into the museum — the one who stopped at my table at Boo at the Zoo — was moving on. It was bittersweet, but also a reminder of how much one person’s belief in your work can change the trajectory of your business.

And in true full-circle fashion, it was actually her idea that sparked one of the most exciting creative projects I’ve worked on yet.

Introducing the Diamond State Collection

Inspired by the museum itself and brought to life through her encouragement, the Diamond State Collection is a series of soaps that celebrate Delaware’s rich history and natural symbols. Each bar in the collection represents something deeply rooted in the First State’s identity.

The Del Marvelous soap — the one inspired directly by the museum — holds a special place in my heart. It was her idea that grew into an entire collection. That is the kind of collaboration that makes this work so meaningful.

Beyond the business: The Clean Community Initiative

Running alongside this partnership milestone is something even closer to my heart. The Clean Community Initiative is a community-driven campaign to assemble hygiene kits for local families and individuals in need — and I am asking for your help.

Here’s how it works: I am calling on my local community — and beyond — to donate essential hygiene items. I will then assemble kits with 3 to 4 items each, and Basically Soap will donate a full-sized bar of soap to every single kit.

The goal is a minimum of 100 kits. But with enough community support, we can go so much further. One bar at a time, one kit at a time — this is how we take care of each other.

This is just the beginning

Every delivery, every collection, every kit assembled is proof that Basically Soap is more than a product — it’s a movement rooted in craft, community, and care. I am grateful for every person who has believed in this journey, bought a bar, or shared this story.

If you want to be part of what comes next — whether that’s supporting the Clean Community Initiative, picking up a bar from the Diamond State Collection, or simply following along — I’d love to have you with me.