Our family of magazines never fails to provide me with inspiration. Though I’ve worked here for nearly 11 years, I still love going through each and every title we publish, taking note of the projects I’d like to try and what trends seem to be emerging. One such trend I’ve noticed is the number of hosts who provide some kind of bath product as the favor for a party or wedding. It seems the days of sending someone home with a bag of candy is gone, as guests now get to take home something a little luxurious to treat themselves with. Artisan soap is something that feels like a total luxury to me, and it’s something I often like to give as gifts. For an upcoming book club meeting, I decided I wanted to share some soap with my friends. However, like most of my grand ideas, this one came to me very late, so I had to purchase some soap from a local boutique, though if I had more time I would have loved to make a batch of melt-and-pour bars. To put my own handmade touch on the favors, I placed some raw ingredients inside a glassine envelope followed the soap. From there, I folded the bag down, stapled a strip of torn book text in place, and then tied the package up with some vintage seam binding. A vintage rhinestone and a sprig of lavender completed the look. If you are packaging a large amount of soap to give as favors, you likely won’t want to give away your entire vintage brooch collection. You could instead find jewelry findings at your local craft store or even leave the package with just the ribbon and lavender. About the Maker:Christen Hammons is the director of publishing for Stampington & Company and editor-in-chiefof Bella Grace, Bella Grace New Generation, Field Guide to Everyday Magic, Artists' Café, and Somerset Studio. Interests: art, slow food, writing, books, yarn, authentic living Follow Christenon Instagram: @christenhammons
