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Meet Naked Fig Soap

  • Mar 31
  • 3 min read

Madeline of Naked Fig Soap!
Madeline of Naked Fig Soap!
honey glazed walnuts

Where are you from & how does that affect your work? I’m based in Phoenix, Arizona, and the Sonoran Desert has a huge influence on what I create. All of my soaps are inspired by specific places and scents tied to the landscape. Living in Arizona has made me pay close attention to the plants, weather, and small details that make a place memorable. I also studied psychology, and I’ve always been fascinated by scent memory and the way smell can instantly transport us back to a moment or place.


How did you get your start? I started making soap out of curiosity. How could something seemingly simple like soap become an impactful part of our day? A friend first taught me the basics of soap making, and from there I slowly began building a business. Over time I refined my vision of using something functional like soap as a point of connection through scent, memory, and place.


What is the hardest part of the creation process?

The hardest part is translating an idea or memory into a scent that feels authentic. I want each bar to connect to a place in a meaningful way, whether someone lives there or is visiting. I spend a lot of time experimenting until the scent feels true to that landscape and experience.


What's your favorite item that you've created, and why?

Right now I’m obsessed with the Arizona Blood Orange soap. It’s vibrant, citrusy, and happy. The newly crafted California Poppy bar is a close second. It has a sunny, uplifting feel with a slightly more earthy tone.

honey glazed walnuts
Arizona Blood Orange Soap - Madeline's current obsession!

What is a fun fact about yourself that others may not expect?

I grew up in Illinois and spent many summers traveling with my family to places like Canada and North Carolina. Those long road trips through different states probably planted the seed for what I do today. I’ve always loved noticing how landscapes change and how different places have their own distinct feel and scent.


Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

In five years I hope to be traveling more across the United States, creating soaps inspired by different regions. My long term vision is to explore the country and create scent profiles connected to every state.


Any advice for someone just starting off on their own?

Start before you feel ready. You learn so much by simply doing the work and putting your ideas out into the world. For me, entrepreneurship is less about what I already know and more about  willingness, curiosity, and openness to learn as I go.



What do you love most about Pasadena?

This will actually be my first time visiting Pasadena and I cannot wait. I’ve seen photos for years and I’m really excited to explore the area in person.


Anything special you'd like to share?

Naked Fig Soap is built on the belief that even small daily rituals can hold meaning. My goal is to create products that connect scent with memory and place, turning something simple like washing your hands into a moment of joy and a feeling of connection to yourself, the earth, and maybe even another person.


We can’t wait to see you in person this April 25th & 26th for Jackalope Pasadena in Central Park!


Where to see more of Naked Fig Soap

Instagram | @nakedfigsoap

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