The Story of MELLA Handmade Soap: How it all began
A Passion for Natural, Sustainable Skincare
Every great business begins with a spark of inspiration. For MELLA Handmade Soap, that spark came from a deep love for nature, a passion for high-quality skincare, and a desire to create something that truly makes a difference.
I’ve always believed that what we put on our skin matters. Frustrated with mass-produced soaps full of synthetic ingredients and unnecessary packaging, I wanted to create something better—soap that was not only kind to skin but also kind to the planet.
The Meaning Behind MELLA
The name MELLA is special. In Shetland dialect, “to mell” means to mix or blend—a perfect reflection of the process of soap-making, where natural oils, botanicals, and essential oils come together to create something beautiful. But MELLA is also a nod to my own name, Melanie—a melting pot of inspiration, heritage, and creativity.
Handmade with Purpose
From the start, sustainability has been at the heart of MELLA Handmade Soap. Every bar is crafted using:
Natural ingredients that nourish the skin
Palm oil-free recipes to protect wildlife and forests
Plastic-free packaging that aligns with our eco-conscious values
But MELLA is more than just soap. It’s a commitment to ethical business, craftsmanship, and making a positive impact. That’s why we work with a social enterprise that supports ex-offenders and former addicts—giving them a fresh start through the art of soap-making.
Inspired by Shetland & Scotland's Coastline
Growing up surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Shetland Islands, I’ve always felt a strong connection to the sea and nature. This love of the wild outdoors inspires every scent, every ingredient, and every design in our collections. Whether it’s the fresh coastal breeze captured in our West Shore Spirit range or the invigorating energy of Wild Swimmers, each soap tells a story of the landscapes that shaped it.
From a Simple Idea to a Growing Business
What started as a small passion project has grown into something I never imagined—MELLA Handmade Soap is now stocked in independent gift shops, loved by customers across the UK, and expanding into candles and other sustainable home products. But no matter how much we grow, our values remain the same: quality, sustainability, and authenticity.
Join the MELLA Journey
I’m so grateful for every customer who has supported MELLA Handmade Soap. Every purchase helps sustain our mission of creating beautiful, ethical products while supporting a greener, kinder world.
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Whether you’re new to MELLA or have been with us from the start, I’d love to hear your thoughts! What’s your favorite scent? What drew you to natural soap? Let’s chat in the comments below.