Soap Conference 2009

I made it to the soap maker's conference in Palm Springs, CA last week. I had such a great time. Nothing like getting away for 3 days to such a beautiful place to get relaxed. Of course I learned so much while I was there.
The conference was held at the Miramonte Resort in Indian Wells, CA. The resort is a beautiful place and very luxurious. The staff there did an excellent job of taking care of us and the food they served was delicious. What a treat to not have to worry about groceries, cooking, cleaning, etc. for 3 days! It was definitely warm, the one day that I did see a thermometer it was 93 degrees. Of course all of the sessions were inside in the frigid air conditioned rooms. It sure felt nice to get back out into the sun after an hour and a half in those cold rooms.
On Tuesday evening we were absolutely spoiled. One of the suppliers, Essential Wholesale, earned huge amounts of good will by sponsoring an incredible event. We had a renaissance themed evening of cocktails, dinner, and entertainment. They brought in a juggler, stilt walker, and jester. They also provided an open bar all evening, goodie bags for everyone, and comedians. I felt like an employee of a bailed out financial firm! But in all seriousness, Dennis and Kayla Fioravanti were incredibly generous in sponsoring such a fantastic event and I can only hope that they will see huge increases in their business as a result. I have not bought from them in the past but will definitely consider doing so in the future.
The educational part of the conference was not what I was expecting. I had gone hoping to learn more about actual soapmaking; tips, techniques, formulating, etc. What we got was more about the business side of it. How to market your products, make a profit, set up shop, trademark, e-commerce, etc. There were a few sessions more along the lines of what I was expecting, I went to sessions on colorants in soap, lotion making, and creative design. I learned quite a bit, the business information was very helpful above and beyond just making soap. The actual soapmaking classes were good and inspiring. I came back with lots of good ideas and hope to be able to kick up my soap making and I would really like to try to make it more of a business and not so much of a hobby.
Anyway, I will try to post again soon with more farm stuff. Things have been going gangbusters around here and I have lots of blogs rattling around in my head. Sorry this post has no pictures. Blogs with no pictures are no fun, but I didn't take any while I was at the conference. Shame on me! More later. Take care.