About LELU

Before LELU, there was Lemongrove Spice Co.

Hi, I’m Stephanie, and my journey with handmade soaps began in 2008. Inspired by bloggers, YouTubers, and naturalists who created skincare from natural ingredients instead of harsh chemicals, I was determined to pursue a healthier lifestyle. At 25, I bought a soap-making book by Tatiana Hill, and after making my first cold-process soap (Oatmeal, Milk, & Honey), I was hooked. The way it made my skin feel—smooth, silky, and gentle—was incredible, and I loved knowing I made it myself. Soon, I was sharing soaps with family and friends, and the feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Encouraged by the responses, I took a leap and started my first business, Lemongrove Spice Co., with a focus on natural, sustainable, and cruelty-free ingredients.

I started small, selling different soap blends online, and was thrilled to see my business grow. But challenges soon followed. I couldn’t secure the financing I needed to take the business further, and balancing my full-time job with soap-making became too difficult. After four years, I had to make the tough decision to close Lemongrove Spice Co. in 2011. The economy had taken a hit, and I found myself juggling two jobs to stay afloat. It was a painful setback, but I knew I needed to move forward.

Looking for a fresh start, I turned to something I had always admired—the military. Although I had never considered myself strong or fast enough, I was inspired by the dedication of those who serve our country. So, eight months after closing my soap business, I joined the Navy. For nearly eight years, I never mentioned my soap-making, focusing instead on my military career.

Then in 2018, during my second tour in the Middle East, a dinner conversation brought it all back. We were talking about our past jobs, and I mentioned the joy I found in making soap. I couldn’t stop thinking about it after that. The passion I had once felt was reignited, and I knew I wanted to try again.

A Fresh Start: The Arrival of LELU in San Diego, CA, 2020

After 18 months of planning, research, and formulating new recipes, I’m back. With the support of my best friend and now business partner, LELU was born. I’m more determined than ever, full of energy, and forever grateful for the humbling experiences that brought me to this point. The challenges I’ve faced have made me stronger, wiser, and more resilient. This time, I welcome the obstacles, knowing they will only lead to greater rewards.