I’ve always been a big fan of the idea of shopping local, supporting small businesses and helping keep local economy going. If I can buy something designed and made in Britain I’m very happy, if it’s made in Wales I’m even happier, if I can meet the designer and producer it doesn’t really get much better! That’s why I was super excited when Valley Mill got in touch, not only is the brand made in Wales, it’s actually made in my home town of Neath, so I’ve been in the shop many times.
They sent me this cute selection of natural soaps to test, and I must be honest the box smelt amazing as soon as I opened it up. I’m not a huge fan of solid soaps but these have been in our bathroom for the last 2 weeks and we have really loved using them. As I said they smell really good, as did my hands after using them. Plus being 100% natural they are gentle on your skin, they are made using essential oils, Shea butter, Coconut oil, Olive oil, Palm oil and Castor oil.
Of the 3 I tried I think my fav was actually the Bergamot and Basil, which surprised me really, but I just loved the smell of it, nothing too overpowering or floral. They don’t soap up like a liquid soap (which is normal) but they make a decent lather to wash your hands with. As well as their own Valley Mill lines they also stock a range of other products sourced from all around Wales, ranging from wool and slate to wood and tin products. They have some really beautiful throws and scarves and some stunning kitchen items (I have my eye on the slate placemats and cake stand! Plus they have welsh made food and alcohols too! Turns out we are pretty good a booze!
Now that I’ve seen everything that Valley Mill has to offer I think I’ll be paying it a trip a little more often and I’ve got a few ideas for xmas gifts! If you fancy any of these welsh products you can get them all on the Valley Mill website too.
What are your opinions of shopping local? Are there any local brands you would like to sing the praises of let me know in the comments and I will be checking them out.
Now for your chance to win yourself one of these soaps and another locally produced surprise gift or 2. Open internationally, the giveaway will run for 1 week and the winner will be chosen at random next Monday. It’s easy to enter just fill in the form below, you must be a follower and let me know what is your favourite scent for soap, plus there are lots of bonus entries. Simple! Good Luck!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Soap provided by Valley Mill for review
Coconut
lavender
I dont often get luxurious soaps, but today my mother brought home (from her holidays) some “rose” scented soap and its absolutely lovely- think it might be my new favourite, even though Ive not used it!
Strawberry
I love orange scented soap – so refreshing 🙂
You can’t beat a coconut smell, it always reminds me of holidays (suntan lotion)
Grapefruit & Fennel :o)
Coco butter
I love anything fresh and fruity smelling.
My fave soap flavour is lavender 🙂
I love peppermint scented soaps.
I really like the scent of oranges.
I love Magnolia even though it’s a bit old school.
lemon
I like Lavender scented soap. But I also love anything with a fresh and fruity smell.
I love a herb scented soap, verbena or lavender