In the heart of Lakewood sits a small business making a big impression on the community. STEM Handmade Soap has become a go-to destination for residents looking for natural self-care products, intentional ingredients and a warm, welcoming environment. STEM is known for its incredible scents and commitment to quality. STEM has earned a reputation to be one of Lakewood’s most charming local spots.
STEM specializes in handcrafted, all-natural bath and body items, offering everything from bar soaps and bath bombs to lotions and candles, they even offer seasonal creations. What truly makes STEM stand out is that they go far beyond what’s just on the shelves.
“STEM offers handcrafted and all-natural soap self-care items. What I think really makes it special is that we put a lot of thought into each ingredient of every product. Not just the ingredients themselves, but the packaging and the presentation,” said Kaci Dobbin, production manager.
Their attention to detail is what truly captures customers’ attention right when they step inside. The first thing that shoppers usually notice isn’t all the products themselves, it’s the amazing smell. “Typically, when customers walk in, the first thing they’re going to notice is that everything smells amazing. The store itself, and if we have the door open, people along the sidewalk can usually smell us too,” said Dobbin.
The store’s atmosphere sets the tone for a relaxing shopping experience, making it a place where choosing which products you would like to purchase is an easy decision.
Dobbin emphasized that one of the most important elements of the STEM shopping experience is the staff itself. “I think the most important piece is that our team that works on the sales floor is very welcoming. Always there to help. So you will always have somebody helping you choose the best product or the best scent for you or for whoever you’re shopping for,” Dobbin said. The friendly environment they provide makes the store feel so much more personal than a typical retail store, which is something hard to find elsewhere.
Behind the scenes, Dobbin’s role is more than essential for the creation of nearly everything in the store. “For me, I am the production manager. I do everything from making things to sending out orders that people place on the website, to packaging and labeling things, so yeah, it’s very involved,” Dobbin said. Her work reflects the hands-on nature of the business. Every bar and bottle is the result of careful measuring and craftsmanship.
Part of the job is staying up to date with what customers want and what’s happening in the world of self-care products. Trends evolve quickly and STEM makes sure to evolve with them as well. “I think it’s something that is forever evolving, whether it’s rules and regulations or trends, as far as sense, colors, and kinds of themes, you kind of always have to be reinventing your own,” said Dobbin. This will help ensure the store is fresh, creative and ready to supply customers with something new each time they visit.
While STEM’s products themselves attract customers, the business has a deeper purpose that makes the business truly meaningful to its shoppers. “I also think that our mission is really important to our community. Our mission is, you know, care of self, care of the planet, and care of community,” Dobbin said. From sustainable ingredients to mindful packaging and community engagement, STEM’s mission brings its values and customers together.
The impact of STEM’s products reaches far beyond the store’s walls. “The first time I ever saw STEM soap was at the 4th of July parade, and they were throwing [the little bars] out to people …. So I took it home, and the smell was so good. So, we always just kept it in the kitchen for our hand soap. And then after that, I started going to buy their products,” said customer Jennifer Reed. What began as a simple parade giveaway became a staple in Reed’s household. This shows that even a small sample can leave a lasting impression and turn into a lifelong customer.
Many customers appreciate STEM’s range of products beyond traditional soap. “We used to always buy the dog shampoo and it made him so soft and smells so good,” said customer Amy Lipka. For shoppers like Lipka, STEM’s products can become a part of everyday routines, extending care and quality to family pets as well.
Reed and Lipka’s stories are just a few among many. Local customers often discover STEM through community events, small samples or even recommendations from friends. What begins as a simple bar of soap can quickly become a household favorite. It’s this kind of connection that has helped STEM grow into a loved part of Lakewood’s small businesses.
Small businesses like STEM help to define Lakewood. Offering thoughtfully made products and providing a welcoming environment helps to reflect the community’s values. Whether you’re searching for a gift, a new scent, or simply a place to explore, the store’s friendly staff and loyal customers make it a beloved local destination.
