We’re excited to welcome the arrival of our new Spring Soaps. Each season, we carefully select scents that reflect the mood and beauty of the time of year, and this collection is no exception. From the fresh fragrances to the thoughtfully designed packaging, every detail has been created with intention—and we believe you’re going to love them.
When I first began making soap nearly three decades ago, each bar was wrapped in cotton cloth. I’m thrilled couldn’t be happier to share that this tradition has returned. The look is timeless, the quality is beautiful, and it reflects what we believe at Bittersweet—that what’s on the outside should reflect the goodness within.
I’m also happy to announce that our new Mop Soap is now available. This week, I’ve been including a complimentary sample with every order, and I’m looking forward to hearing what you think. I personally love the way it leaves my home smelling fresh, clean, and inviting after every use.
Spring is a time of renewal, and Bittersweet is eager to share our latest designs, and many more surprises once spring breaks. 
Warmly,
Jill McDowell

Every season is a time of transition at Bittersweet, and with each shift comes new inspiration, fresh ideas, and thoughtfully made essentials. Along with those thoughts comes something else—being ahead of the game. Because soap requires time to cure, we’re always planning a couple of months in advance. Winter, especially after our big annual soap sale, is when we dig in, slow down, and begin designing new prototypes for the seasons ahead.
When we set out to create something new, there are many factors that guide what comes next. Lately, I’ve been seeing a flood of social media posts about mop soaps. Who knew we all needed such an amazing home-keeping product? When trends like this catch my eye, my mind immediately goes to one place: what is it made of? Does it contain synthetics or unnecessary chemicals? Does the packaging truly reflect the product? What size makes the most sense? What fragrance feels right?
These questions—and many more—surround every new item that Bittersweet brings to the table. It’s a process that, after nearly thirty years, is not only in my blood, but in my soul.
As I dream about spring (and I know many of you are too), my thoughts drift toward sourdough bread, violets, lilac, and… mop soap. Ha! Sharing knowledge and simple things that bring everyday joy has always been my thing. It comes with the territory—at least, that’s what I believe. When I made my very first batch of soap all those years ago, those values took center stage, and they’ve stayed with me ever since.
I’m especially excited about our new YouTube channel, which will be a space to share the things I love most. Less is more. The things that stand out. Raised-bed gardening, bread making, herb harvesting, and other tried-and-true pastimes that reflect who I am at the core.
I hope you enjoy these moments of sharing as much as I enjoy creating them.
Warmly,
Jill

There’s nothing that makes me more appreciative of a warm home, a hot bath, and food in the pantry than when a snowstorm and arctic air move through. This appears to be a widespread winter storm, and it has me sending extra thanks to the One above for my many blessings.
I’ve made several trips to the market and stocked up on propane tanks—better safe than sorry. My home is equipped with backup options for situations like this, because if the power goes out, you don’t want to be without heat when temperatures dip into the single digits.
I’m also getting orders shipped out early and tidying up the studio. Between all of that, I’ve begun working on some new skincare formulations inspired by my own needs. A gel cleanser that moisturizes while it cleanses has been on my list for quite some time—I love the idea of cleansing and moisturizing all in one step.
I’ve had the opportunity to visit with a few of you during order pickups, and it’s always such a joy to see familiar faces. While spring and summer feel far away right now, I know the weather will break soon. Gardening, baking, and sharing those simple joys will be back before we know it—and I can’t wait.
Warmly,
​Jill 

​As we approach our thirtieth year, we find ourselves reflecting deeply on the products we create and the purity behind them. There is something truly special about knowing a skincare essential is made without chemicals or artificial ingredients—and that responsibility is not something we take lightly at Bittersweet. In many ways, those values are the very foundation of who we are.
I’m slowly transitioning from shop life to studio life and discovering that time feels more generous than it ever did as a shop owner. With that shift comes space to create, reflect, and share more intentionally.
I’m happy to announce that we’ve launched our Bittersweet YouTube channel. We have exciting plans for this new platform and would love for you to subscribe. As the seasons change, so will the stories we share—following the rhythm of the year through the eyes of a soap maker.
Warmly,
Jill 

As I gathered the final shop displays, products, and even the plants, there was a quiet satisfaction in standing inside an empty space that held fifteen years of memories. Ups, downs, and rewards—often all at once. I imagine many of you can relate.
Now, I’m deep into sorting paper goods and reworking the studio into a functional, efficient shipping space. Years ago, I learned an important lesson: when your workspace doesn’t work for you, it quietly steals time and energy from the creative work itself. That truth feels especially present as I bag soap for our Annual Soap Sale and prepare for the busiest days ahead.
This year’s Soap Sale is shaping up to be something special. Each bag is being carefully pre-measured, and the value comes in at approximately $53 in savings per bag—a rare offering in today’s market. Hundreds of pounds of soap will be available on January 31, with the sale beginning at noon on our website. With so many of you visiting at once, the site may slow down briefly, and I truly appreciate your patience.
I’m also happy to share that local pickup is now available. Once you place your order and select the local pickup option, you’ll receive detailed instructions. Many of you have already taken advantage of this, and I’m grateful to offer a convenient way to stay connected.
As I begin dreaming of spring, my mind is already turning toward new product ideas and thoughtful designs that continue to nurture this small business—now nearing thirty years. Thank you for walking alongside Bittersweet through each season of change.
Wishing you a healthy, peaceful, and prosperous New Year.
Warmly,
Jill

​December has unexpectedly become one of my busiest months of the year. As I transition out of the shop and begin setting up Bittersweet as a pickup and mail-order business from my home studio, I can honestly say this feels like one of the best decisions I’ve made in a long time.
While this chapter may feel new, it’s actually a return to something familiar. Years ago, Bittersweet operated from a studio that was open on Saturdays for customers to stop by and pick up their essentials. That season lasted five years before I reopened a storefront on Water Street. Now, while I won’t be opening my home in the same way, I’ve implemented an easy and convenient local pickup option—very similar to what we had at the shop. After many requests, it became clear this was something my customers truly wanted, and I’m glad to offer it once again.
If you stop by for pickup, you might catch a glimpse of me peeking out of the studio mid–soap batch or while packing orders. You never know what’s happening behind the scenes!
What’s become abundantly clear is that closing the shop has opened doors I simply couldn’t walk through before. Managing a storefront came with limitations—this new setup brings freedom, creativity, and time to focus on what I love most: creating, developing new products, and dreaming up what’s next for Bittersweet. The saying when one door closes, another opens has never felt more true.
As we step into the New Year, I’m wishing you peace, comfort, and renewal. I look forward to continuing to provide you with the quality soap and skincare you’ve trusted for nearly thirty years—and I’m excited for all that’s still to come.

I’ve always thought that winter was enchanting. The idea of slowing down and pacing yourself with the rhythm of winter’s grace just feels right. Digging out a puzzle or a deck of cards, planning a warm home-cooked meal when it’s snowy and cold, while the fireplace flickers and shadows dance on the wall.
I’m embracing winter and honoring the many blessings of a warm home and cozy clothing, along with so many other things I sometimes take for granted. That’s what winter does—it reminds us of just how blessed we are.
Wishing you a peaceful New Year, filled with many joyous moments.

Jill

Our beautiful Holiday Soap will start hitting the store shelves on November 1!

It’s Official—The “Ber” Months Are Here!
The arrival of September always feels like a fresh start. The “ber” months bring a steady rhythm of busy days as we pour our energy into creating new soaps and skincare to carry us through the crisp, cool season ahead.
This week also marks the kick-off of our Annual Porch Sale—a favorite tradition where we clear out our back room to make space for what’s coming. Tables are filled, shipments are waiting, and while we’re eager to share all the new things, we’re holding them back until after the sale. That means it’s your chance to snag incredible bargains before the next wave of fresh arrivals.
September has always been one of my favorite months—it ushers in fall with its golden light, cozy air, and renewed sense of gratitude. Many blessings to you this season, and may you find joy in the simple, soothing moments of autumn.
​Jill 

While we’re knee-deep in preparations for our Porch Sale, we’re also head over heels in love with our curated Fall Collections. A few pieces have already started arriving in the shop, but even more will be unveiled once the sale wraps up. 🍂The Porch Sale is the perfect chance to scoop up treasures before we restructure our shop and make room for the new season. Fresh displays, new ideas, and a renewed focus are all on the horizon, and we’re so excited for you to be part of the transformation. And just around the corner — the season we all look forward to — our Holiday Soaps will begin arriving on November 1. 🎄✨ These seasonal favorites always mark the start of a magical time at Bittersweet, and we can’t wait to share them with you. Don’t miss your chance to visit during the Porch Sale — it’s the last look before our shelves are refreshed and Fall fully takes over!
Warmly, 
​Jill