Behind the Craft: Anna Lee on Turning a Personal Need into a Purpose-Driven Soap Studio
Step into the world of Anna Lee, the founder behind Milklady Soap Co., a Burnaby-based studio where each bar of soap is thoughtfully handcrafted using traditional cold and hot process methods. What began as a search for a gentle, natural solution for her child’s eczema-prone skin grew into a passion for creating nourishing blends with botanicals, clays, and plant-based colorants. In this feature, Anna shares how she transformed a personal need into a thriving small business, the inspiration she draws from nature, and the joy she finds in making soaps that become part of her customers’ daily rituals.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your craft?
⭐️ “I'm the founder of Milklady Soap Co., a small-batch natural soap studio based in Burnaby, BC. As a mom of two, I started creating gentle, nourishing soaps that are safe for the whole family. Every bar is handcrafted in my home studio using traditional cold or hot process methods, and I use natural botanicals, clays, and plant-based colorants to bring each soap to life.”
What inspired you to start your business?
⭐️ ”My journey began when I was looking for a gentle soap for my child’s eczema-prone skin. I struggled to find anything truly natural and non-irritating, so I decided to make it myself. That experience sparked a deep passion for soap-making, and I eventually turned it into a business to help other families seeking clean, skin-loving products.”
How did you first hear about Makers?
⭐️ “I first heard about Makers through word of mouth from other local artisans. They spoke highly of the supportive community and how Makers helped bring their products to a wider audience.”
What inspired you to showcase your work in a retail setting like ours?
⭐️ “I loved how Makers focuses on sharing the stories behind each artisan. The platform celebrates local craftsmanship and gives creators like me a chance to connect with people who truly value handmade goods. It felt like a perfect match.”
How has your business changed since becoming a Makers artisan?
⭐️ “Partnering with Makers gave my business greater visibility beyond the online space. It’s helped me reach more customers and receive real-time feedback, which has been invaluable. I’ve also gained more confidence in presenting my work in a retail setting.”
How has this creative journey impacted you personally or professionally?
⭐️ “This journey has been incredibly fulfilling. Personally, it’s given me purpose and joy in creating something meaningful. Professionally, it’s helped me grow as a maker and connect with a broader community that supports small businesses.”
What’s been the most rewarding part of running your business?
⭐️ “Knowing that my soaps are part of someone’s daily ritual is so rewarding. I especially love hearing from customers who say my products have helped their skin or brought a little more comfort and beauty into their lives.”
What do you do to stay inspired when creativity feels tough?
⭐️ “Nature is my biggest source of inspiration. When I feel stuck, I take a walk, spend time outdoors, or listen to natural sounds to reset. Sometimes just revisiting why I started this journey in the first place brings the spark back.”
What advice would you give to other artisans considering selling in Makers?
⭐️ “Be authentic—share your story, your values, and your passion. Makers is a space that celebrates real people behind the products, and that connection can really resonate with customers.”
At its heart, Milklady Soap Co. is more than just soap—it’s a labor of love, born from a mother’s care and a desire to bring comfort to others. For Anna, every bar is a reminder that even the smallest daily rituals can be an act of kindness, connection, and self-care.
