I’m Joanne, the creator and heart behind Soaprecious. The journey began in 2024, when my partner at the time (now my husband) asked me to find him a handmade olive oil soap. I bought one for him from a market, and then he playfully suggested I try making one myself. That small challenge sparked something inside me—my curiosity, creativity, and love for crafting things at home all came alive.

I had moved to Melbourne in 2020 after completing my architecture studies overseas. Life during the early lockdowns was quiet and uncertain, and work was limited to hospitality. I was searching for something that could be entirely my own—a creative outlet where I could experiment, craft, and build something meaningful.

Driven by curiosity, I immersed myself in online tutorials, learning how to make handmade, organic soaps. My very first batch, poured into rubber molds shaped like hearts and stars, was shared with friends and family—and they loved it. Their excitement, along with my partner’s encouragement, showed me that this could grow into something remarkable.

A few months later, during a trip overseas for my cousin’s wedding, I discovered how popular handmade soaps made from natural oils were. Visiting local stores and asking questions fueled my knowledge and inspiration. One day, a small soap stall at a restaurant caught my attention, and I decided to attend a workshop. The owner generously shared tips and ideas that motivated me to take Soaprecious seriously.

Back home, I began experimenting weekly with small batches. Not every bar turned out perfectly. Some were too soft, others didn’t smell quite right. Imposter syndrome often crept in—I wondered if anyone would buy my soaps when the market was already full of options. Yet, every time I shared a bar with friends, colleagues, or family, they came back asking for more. Their encouragement reminded me why I loved creating soaps in the first place.

In March 2025, my sister-in-law moved to Melbourne and became one of my biggest supporters, constantly motivating me to believe in myself again. Around the same time, my partner and I were planning our wedding in Lebanon. He told me, “You don’t need to work just to survive. Focus on what makes you happy. Shine. Do what you love.” With his support, I left my hospitality job and dedicated myself fully to Soaprecious.

Today, every bar of Soaprecious soap carries that journey. From a soft, nourishing liquid mix to a hard, beautiful bar, I pour love, care, and intention into every creation. Every swirl, scent, and texture tells a story—not just of soap, but of curiosity, perseverance, and joy.

Soaprecious isn’t just soap—it’s a piece of my heart, my creativity, and my journey, shared with the community to nourish, delight, and inspire.

— Joanne Antonios, Founder