Big changes at Queen Charlotte Soaps

[mretzloff]

We are pleased to announce positive changes to Queen Charlotte Soaps. We have re-designed our website to make it more user-friendly. We have also added the Authorize.net payment gateway in order to facilitate a smoother checkout. We still accept PayPal. We have also added an About Us page (http://queencharlottesoaps.com/index.php?main_page=page&id=7) to give you a better idea of who we are.

We are now offering three types of hand and body soap: tallow/shea butter hand and body soap (http://www.queencharlottesoaps.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=11_12), vegan hand and body soap (http://www.queencharlottesoaps.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=11_14), and vegan/shea butter hand and body soap (http://www.queencharlottesoaps.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=11_13). We have also added several new scents, many of which are masculine, such as Cordovan, a leather scent, Green Irish Tweed Type, and Vetiver.

Many customers have requested shampoo bars, which we are now happy to sell. You can view them on this page (http://www.queencharlottesoaps.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=9).

After much consideration and discussion with customers, we have decided to offer shaving products that are scented only with essential oils and/or absolutes. Seven new scents are now available: Mysore Sandalwood, Rose Otto, Cayman, Esquire, Provence, Monaco, and Queen Charlotte. Please see our Shaving Cream page (http://www.queencharlottesoaps.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=2) for their descriptions.

Our shaving cream packaging has been changed in an effort to make our products more pleasing.

Within the next few months we expect to be releasing several new products. We would like to thank you all for your continued business. Our business is only possible because of you, our valued customers. We would like to continue to operate in a way that allows our customers to make the decisions. Because of that, we are open to your suggestions, comments, concerns, and questions.

Thank you,

Matthew

[TnutsShave]

Awesome...Can you tell us how the new shave creams differ from your "regular" line?

Wait...I just re-read your post...have they all been reformulated?

[aamtz87]

I just saw the new website and I must say that it looks great!

I can feel my wallet burning in my pocket, does anybody else have this feeling?

[TnutsShave]

I can feel my wallet burning in my pocket, does anybody else have this feeling?

Yes...its.....disconcerting.

[kingfisher]

The site looks nice, Matthew.

TnutsShave, I don't think they reformulated the shaving cream soap. I think he's saying that BATH soaps are now offered in three different forms: one with tallow and shea butter, one that is vegan, and one non-tallow with shea butter.

[azmark]

Nice work Matt!

Look forward to trying the Vetiver bath soap out:wink2:

[TnutsShave]

The site looks nice, Matthew.

TnutsShave, I don't think they reformulated the shaving cream soap. I think he's saying that BATH soaps are now offered in three different forms: one with tallow and shea butter, one that is vegan, and one non-tallow with shea butter.

+1 on the new site.

After reading the release again, he does state that the shave creams are only offered with the natural EO, etc. Which is cool...I think I may have misunderstood that it's reformulated. I was read it that it was implied that maybe they previously offered creams that were NOT formulated with only the natural EO's etc, and they've ditched those...I may still be confused :thumbup1:

[RichGem]

I just read the official newsletter via email. Matthew... you're killing me! :biggrin:

(the new site looks very professional)

[gull]

What happened to your vegan unscented shave creamsoap?

[ackvil]

Very nice, Matthew. Good luck!

[Don_Draper]

Website looks great Matthew!! Can't wait to get my order...and maybe a few samples of those new scents?:thumbup::thumbup:

[maxman]

The redesign of the packaging is great!
I'm on my last few shaves of the orginal Sandalwood.
It sounds odd to say that.
Anyway, good luck, the creams are awesome.

[bdev]

Good luck with your new site but I've got a bone to pick. :mad3:
Just last week I received a sample pack of shaving soaps that are no longer listed on your site.
If you knew they were going to be discontinued, why send them to a future customer. :confused1
I'm sure this was planned way before my order was placed.
I ordered Briar, Sandalwood & Vostok Lite.

[azmark]

Hey Matt there is no option for Vetiver in the drop down in the 4 soaps for $15 section. Yes I want all 4 vetiver :lol:

[inkwell]

Hey Matt there is no option for Vetiver in the drop down in the 4 soaps for $15 section. Yes I want all 4 vetiver :lol:

Celestial woods is not on that list either.......

[TonyN]

I just order 10 samples of shave cream. I noticed it's no longer called shaving cream/soap.

I curently have the Cedarwood-Lemongrass and Key Lime and like them both. Now I'll figure out what else to add to my rotation.

[TonyN]

Hey Matt there is no option for Vetiver in the drop down in the 4 soaps for $15 section. Yes I want all 4 vetiver :lol:

Mark...It looks like it's fixed.

[mretzloff]

Awesome...Can you tell us how the new shave creams differ from your "regular" line?

Wait...I just re-read your post...have they all been reformulated?

The only change to the recipe is the addition of palm oil. The lather and overall quality is the same. All shaving creams are now scented with absolutes and/or essential oils (something many customers requested).



What happened to your vegan unscented shave creamsoap?

Some products were removed due to low demand. We could always discuss a custom order, but since the recipe is different there would be a minimum order quantity of several tubs.



Good luck with your new site but I've got a bone to pick. :mad3:
Just last week I received a sample pack of shaving soaps that are no longer listed on your site.
If you knew they were going to be discontinued, why send them to a future customer. :confused1
I'm sure this was planned way before my order was placed.
I ordered Briar, Sandalwood & Vostok Lite.

I apologize. The decision was not made on one specific day or even during a specific month, but was rather more of a gradual one (if that makes any sense).

If you PM or e-mail (http://www.queencharlottesoaps.com/index.php?main_page=contact_us) me your order number, I will send you three new samples of your choice. If you find you really like one of those three now-discontinued scents, we can discuss a custom order at no extra charge to you.

If you find neither of those two options satisfactory, feel free to PM or e-mail (http://www.queencharlottesoaps.com/index.php?main_page=contact_us) me a suggestion, and we will go from there. Again, I apologize.



Hey Matt there is no option for Vetiver in the drop down in the 4 soaps for $15 section. Yes I want all 4 vetiver :lol:

Darn it, Mark! I was trying to avoid this, so that I could have more for myself :laugh:

(Ok, I really forgot to add them. Sorry :blushing:)



Celestial woods is not on that list either.......

Fixed :001_smile

[PozzSka]

Looks great...gotta keep my urge to purchase under control...but a BayRum in that great cream...hard to resist.

[inkwell]

Fixed :001_smile

order placed 8)

[sachin]

Matt, a question about the Rose Otto. It seems from the description that your Rose Otto shave cream is not a straight up rose-scented cream but has other EOs in the mix too. How would you describe the strength of the rose scent?

[wimbouman]

Congrats!

[RichGem]

Matthew,

I just updated our wiki shampoo bar page to indicate that you now offer full on shampoo bars (not just soap bars that you can shampoo with).

[azmark]

Alright, my wife said they all can't be vetiver so I'm mixing it up. Curious if you plan on having flat rate shipping available?

[SilverKarn]

NOOOOOO!!! why did the prices have to go up so much?!?!?!

[RichGem]

NOOOOOO!!! why did the prices have to go up so much?!?!?!

EOs cost more than FOs, would be my guess. It's not that much of an increase tho, especially considering what you're getting.

[mretzloff]

order placed 8)

Thank you (and thank you to everyone else who has placed an order).



Matt, a question about the Rose Otto. It seems from the description that your Rose Otto shave cream is not a straight up rose-scented cream but has other EOs in the mix too. How would you describe the strength of the rose scent?

The only scent I can make out is rose otto. The other essential oils are in there to anchor the rose otto scent. We could hide that, but feel better to be upfront about it.



Matthew,

I just updated our wiki shampoo bar page to indicate that you now offer full on shampoo bars (not just soap bars that you can shampoo with).

Thank you, Rich :001_smile



Alright, my wife said they all can't be vetiver so I'm mixing it up. Curious if you plan on having flat rate shipping available?

Mark, could you please elaborate more on what you mean by "flat rate shipping"? If you are referring to the boxes that USPS provides, then no. The reason is that we have found that customers save money when we just ship in regular boxes. We do heavily monitor shipping charges. If we overcharge you by even a small amount, we will refund the difference.



NOOOOOO!!! why did the prices have to go up so much?!?!?!

Some of the raw materials that we use have gone up in price. For example, one of the essential oils that we use has skyrocketed in price. We also make sure we only use the finest ingredients.

We do, however, believe that our shaving cream is still an excellent value, especially if you compare our per-ounce price to what European companies and other artisans charge for their products.

[memoryleak]

Matthew,

Just received my initial order of both shave and bath soaps in today's mail.
That is some fast shipping !. Your shave cream/soap samples are the most generous in size, and soap bars are the 'just right" size and shape.
I don't think I've seen a more conscientiously packed box in my life. The Sandalwood shave cream scent could easily pass for the old Coate's, will the new Mysore smell much different? I'm hoping for quick whisker growth so I can try the other two cream samples. :lol: Best wishes to you and Petra for your business success.

Tony

[MoJoe]

Nicely done, Matt. I'm looking forward to ordering again once my recently received stock runs out. Clearly, you keep improving what you have and keep making it easy for us to keep buying from you.

[mretzloff]

Matthew,

Just received my initial order of both shave and bath soaps in today's mail.
That is some fast shipping !. Your shave cream/soap samples are the most generous in size, and soap bars are the 'just right" size and shape.
I don't think I've seen a more conscientiously packed box in my life. The Sandalwood shave cream scent could easily pass for the old Coate's, will the new Mysore smell much different? I'm hoping for quick whisker growth so I can try the other two cream samples. :lol: Best wishes to you and Petra for your business success.

Tony

Thank you for the nice words. My mother is the one behind the "conscientiously packed" boxes. I will pass this along to her.

Smell is very personal, but I believe the new sandalwood is an improvement. I believe it smells somewhat different, but that is just my opinion.

[Leon]

Congratulations, Matthew. I wish the best of luck.

[mretzloff]

Congratulations, Matthew. I wish the best of luck.

Thank you, Leon.

[bdev]

Matthew,
Thank you for the great customer service. You address my concerns and I'm looking forward to the new samples you will be sending.

Thank you......Bruno :thumbup1:

[Aaron622]

Why the change in name from "cream-soap" to plain "cream"? IMHO, "soap" would have been a better choice, since I think they lather best using a soap technique.

[psram]

Mysore Sandalwood! That will be a very unique scent. Have spent my current budget on some T&H/Tobs creams, and credit with the SWMBO :sad:. Shortlisted for my next iteration.

[Barber-Eile]

Congrats on the new site - it looks great.
The new scents sound nice too but I'll have to make a dint in my current haul of your stuff first ( by the way I'm loving the Rice Flower and Shea soaps and shaving soap).
I think I would still have put you in the soap bracket though. Def the closest thing to cream without being cream IMO but still a soap.
Still, it's just technicalities. Maybe have a picture of it on your site of an open tub with a piece cut out?

[mretzloff]

The name was changed from "cream soap" to "cream" because I believe it is more of a cream than a soap and to clear up the "Is it a cream or a soap?" confusion.

Then again, all creams are soaps chemically speaking, so maybe my point is mute :laugh:

[RichGem]

The name was changed from "cream soap" to "cream" because I believe it is more of a cream than a soap and to clear up the "Is it a cream or a soap?" confusion.

Then again, all creams are soaps chemically speaking, so maybe my point is mute :laugh:

The Czar says "soft soap" and "moot." :biggrin:

[pizzaguy]

Nice site -- looks great

[mretzloff]

The Czar says "soft soap" and "moot." :biggrin:

:lol: :thumbup1:

[kpfeifle]

Order placed! I still have a lot of shave cream from you, but the GIT bar soap seems great. Looking forward to getting the order!

[Sueto]

I am going to give this a try. I went for the Monaco. It sounds interesting at any rate.

[htownmmm]

Site looks great!

However, it could be improved w/ the addition of:
GREEN IRISH TWEED TYPE CREAM :drool::drool::drool::drool::drool::drool::drool:



marty

[shaveBandito]

Hi Matthew,

Congratulations on your restructure. Best wishes for continued success to you.

A question about "Mysore Sandalwood". I am a long-term fan of Mysore (authentic Indian) sandalwood and find that a lot of the soaps/creams (I won't go there) that are labeled "Mysore Sandalwood" are in fact not sandalwood, or (in those cases where they say EO) are Australian or other sandalwood. Mysore has a very distinct signature aroma. Is the EO used in your sandalwood formulation actually from the Indian tree, or is it from someplace else?

[mretzloff]

Site looks great!

However, it could be improved w/ the addition of:
GREEN IRISH TWEED TYPE CREAM :drool::drool::drool::drool::drool::drool::drool:



marty

Marty, I could always make a cream version of that for you. Just let me know.



Hi Matthew,

Congratulations on your restructure. Best wishes for continued success to you.

A question about "Mysore Sandalwood". I am a long-term fan of Mysore (authentic Indian) sandalwood and find that a lot of the soaps/creams (I won't go there) that are labeled "Mysore Sandalwood" are in fact not sandalwood, or (in those cases where they say EO) are Australian or other sandalwood. Mysore has a very distinct signature aroma. Is the EO used in your sandalwood formulation actually from the Indian tree, or is it from someplace else?

Thank you for your wishes.

The shaving cream does contain Mysore sandalwood (the real thing), however, it also contains a few other essential oils to anchor in the Mysore scent. Some people have said that they actually prefer this scent to straight Mysore sandalwood. Because scent is very personal, I recommend ordering a sample first.

If you need any more explanations, please let me know.

[fluffman86]

Love the new site. Disappointed that I:

A: gave away some of the shaving cream thinking I could get more.
B: the prices went up
C: didn't buy more before Christmas when the sale was going on. :(

I loves my key lime, rose, cedarwood-lemongrass, and sandalwood, even though they were scented with FOs. :drool: They were absolutely the best value creams EVER at $7.50/tub.

[KittensAndRainbows]

I couldn't resist....

[mretzloff]

C: didn't buy more before Christmas when the sale was going on. :(

We will still have sales from time to time, generally on important federal holidays and times like Christmas. We believe the creams still offer tremendous value for what you get.

[Phog Allen]

Hi Matt. I actually stumbled over to your new site before I saw this thread. Way to go. Great looking setup and the new products are welcomed. I have been on a shampoo bar buying kick the last week and I will have to try yours as well.

I for one welcome the essential oil scented creams. I know there are some advantages to using fragrance oils. And most people do not realise that comsetic grade fragrance oils are actually very good products. They get an undeserved bad rap. However, I am one of those suckers for natural essential oils and cannot get enough of them.

I personally could care less that the price had to go up. If all I were interested in were five dollar shave lathers then I would buy crappy smelling Arko shave sticks. HAND CRAFTED products and a shave cream that is regularly compared to Castle Forbes in lathering and shaving performance. I can easily live with your price points. And with your sample system a chap can easily get a great sense of how the product performs. Not to mention bath soaps and shampoos too. Looks like you and your mum have got things well sorted at Queen Charlotte Soaps. Well done young man.

Regards, Todd

[DymondCutter]

QCS has taken me over. I am trying to use up some of these other brands so my SWMBO doesn't kill me when I order another 6 or 7 tubs. My goal is to weed out everything else and just have QCS, AOS, and MWF. QCS is hands down my best performing soap.

[fluffman86]

We will still have sales from time to time, generally on important federal holidays and times like Christmas. We believe the creams still offer tremendous value for what you get.

Oh, I'm not arguing that they are unreasonably priced. They are indeed still a great value.

On another note: last year, you mentioned exploring the possibility of a hard soap, but I believe you said the cold process killed the scent. Anymore news on that front?

[mretzloff]

On another note: last year, you mentioned exploring the possibility of a hard soap, but I believe you said the cold process killed the scent. Anymore news on that front?

A hard shaving soap will be released some time in the future. The soap is very good, but I just want to make sure it is perfected before releasing it.

[azmark]

Mark, could you please elaborate more on what you mean by "flat rate shipping"? If you are referring to the boxes that USPS provides, then no. The reason is that we have found that customers save money when we just ship in regular boxes. We do heavily monitor shipping charges. If we overcharge you by even a small amount, we will refund the difference.






Only reason now is that I'll be paying ~$32 for one puck of soap, don't know how a regular box would be beneficial for one puck or a bars of soap.

[Phog Allen]

A hard shaving soap will be released some time in the future. The soap is very good, but I just want to make sure it is perfected before releasing it.

Dang it Matt. I have resisted your creams for so long because I did not want another AD for the toiletry locker. And now this comes up. I can hardly wait.

Regards, Todd

[Austin]

Only reason now is that I'll be paying ~$32 for one puck of soap, don't know how a regular box would be beneficial for one puck or a bars of soap.

Is that right? It seems to be threading on Castle Forbes territory.

[azmark]

Is that right? It seems to be threading on Castle Forbes territory.

Yes, my wife actually does the ordering and placed an order and at check out I canceled it. Never noticed the cost of shipping but she wasn't going to budge for 4 bars of bath soap which she loves.

[mretzloff]

Only reason now is that I'll be paying ~$32 for one puck of soap, don't know how a regular box would be beneficial for one puck or a bars of soap.

Are you talking about the shaving cream of the hand and body soap? The former costs $4.50 for First Class mail. The latter costs $10.90 to ship because the weight puts the order above the maximum allowed weight for First Class mail.

A tub of cream does not fit in the small flat rate boxes.



Is that right? It seems to be threading on Castle Forbes territory.

How so? If Castle Forbes sold their shaving cream in a five ounce container as we do, their lavender and lime would about $8 more per tub than ours cost.

[Sueto]

The shipping did catch me by surprise. I am hoping the Monaco turns out to be something I enjoy. The estimated cost on just the shave cream was $4 and some change. I added 2 travel tubs, which I presume are empty, at $1.50 each. The shipping jumped up over $9. So it cost me more to ship the 2 travel containers than they originally cost. No biggie, live and learn.

[Dave in the basement]

I really like the site update! Nicely done. :001_smile I am glad you added the shampoo bars to your rotation, and I am looking forward to ordering once the next sale rolls around (assuming shipping doesn't kill it). Continued success,

Dave

[Slowhand]

I hate to be the one to ask this...but wasn't the cream/soaps in the 12-15 dollar range (with one or two exceptions) just a couple weeks ago?

[Austin]

I hate to be the one to ask this...but wasn't the cream/soaps in the 12-15 dollar range (with one or two exceptions) just a couple weeks ago?

Yep.

[RichGem]

I hate to be the one to ask this...but wasn't the cream/soaps in the 12-15 dollar range (with one or two exceptions) just a couple weeks ago?

There was a price increase as everything is now EO as opposed to FOs. EOs are more expensive, but are natural as opposed to synthetic.

[Slowhand]

There was a price increase as everything is now EO as opposed to FOs. EOs are more expensive, but are natural as opposed to synthetic.
Thanks...I posted that before reading the second page, as I thought it would have been noticed/discussed on the first page. Feel like a boob now.

I second the Green Irish Tweed scent for a shaving soap, too!

[brianw]

Are you talking about the shaving cream of the hand and body soap? The former costs $4.50 for First Class mail. The latter costs $10.90 to ship because the weight puts the order above the maximum allowed weight for First Class mail.

A tub of cream does not fit in the small flat rate boxes.


I beg to differ with you I just put a tub of Vostok and a tub of lavender ( both 5 oz) and still had room for a cake of bath soap as well..... in a 5.20 USPS Flat rate box.

[Aaron622]

There was a price increase as everything is now EO as opposed to FOs. EOs are more expensive, but are natural as opposed to synthetic.

Well, plenty of them were EO to begin with (the original lime, lavender, and lemongrass/cedarwood for example), yet they all received a $6 increase.

[RichGem]

Well, plenty of them were EO to begin with (the original lime, lavender, and lemongrass/cedarwood for example), yet they all received a $6 increase.

It's still a great price for what you get.

[Slowhand]

I think just the sticker shock of a 30-40% increase all at once is what is upsetting.

Let market forces dictate...if they are priced too high, the fine folks at QCS will notice a drop off in unit sales.

[mretzloff]

I hate to be the one to ask this...but wasn't the cream/soaps in the 12-15 dollar range (with one or two exceptions) just a couple weeks ago?

They are still an exceptional value. Take a look at the reviews my products receive, what competing companies and other artisans charge for their products, and the fact that all my creams are handmade without any pre-bought bases, and I think you will agree.



I beg to differ with you I just put a tub of Vostok and a tub of lavender ( both 5 oz) and still had room for a cake of bath soap as well..... in a 5.20 USPS Flat rate box.

While that may be true, those tubs would not be protected at all. I cannot send tubs without peanuts or bubble wrap. Knowing how the USPS handles the packages, I can almost guarantee that many customers would receive broken tubs, something I do not want.

The shipping charges I am charging are being used to pay for the box, packaging materials, and whatever USPS charges me to ship you your order. In the rare case that a customer has been overcharged, they have always been refunded the difference. I am sorry, but I have no power over what USPS charges. That is an issue you need to take up with your congressman/woman.

[Slowhand]

They are still an exceptional value. Take a look at the reviews my products receive, what competing companies and other artisans charge for their products, and the fact that all my creams are handmade without any pre-bought bases, and I think you will agree.

I do agree...I just scored some key lime off the BST, then after test lathering, immediately went to your site, then had a little sticker shock. No hard feelings, just wasn't expecting to see the jump.

Best wishes...no hard feelings.

[ouch]

EDIT: Matthew seems to be experiencing some inevitable growing pains in regards to his business. This is to be expected, and I apologize if I give the impression that I'm complaining about anything, as I am not.

Hopefully, he will be able to address all concerns as he continues to hammer out his vision. I don't think anyone wishes Matt anything less than the best in his efforts, and all comments should be received (and certainly given) as nothing more than advice from concerned members.

[Slowhand]

What he said. Well put ouch.

[ltjaw]

IMO, Matt's shaving creams aren't overpriced, but that's just me. If the consensus is that they are overpriced, he will see a corresponding drop in sales. Economics 101. Good on him. And if you want to acquire his cream at the "old" price, a certain vendor and B&B member sells two custom scents for $12 and $13.

My only recommendation to Matt has to do with his samples. Pricing is straightforward enough - same price per ounce as a tub of cream. But consider the purpose of samples - to see if you like the scent. A typical customer may only like 3 of the 5 samples they received, and now they've ended up paying more per ounce of cream if they choose not to use the samples they don't like. The 1 ounce samples are very generous, and more than enough to tell if you like the product. I'd favor 1/2 once samples, allowing me to try five scents for $10 rather than $20. I must admit, I have put off buying a tub of QCS cream because I am working through a sample volume equal to one tub.

[orchestrion]

Here are some quotes from reviews in our review section:



Most of those reviews also note how the white plastic tub used for packaging is "nothing special" but "it'll do." :001_rolle

[christhach]

Issue resolved. Good luck to all!

[Aaron622]

These are very dense "creams" that should last a long time. Beyond that, I think they are high quality products. Based on this, I wouldn't call the current pricing unreasonable, but the fact of the matter is that 6 months ago you could buy a 4oz tub of cream for $7.50 ($1.88/oz). Granted this was a slightly different formula. Now, a 5oz tub of cream in the same scent is $18 ($3.60/oz), so close to double. Imagine if all of a sudden a pot of Trumper's was $50.

[CaptainK]

The new site is looking great, Matt! I wish you the best for the future.

I was introduced to QCS creams via a recent PIF - great stuff! I'm currently unemployed, but was going to order a complete sampler set when that situation was rectified. I immediately went to the new site when it was announced to check out the new scents.

Sure, the price hikes were unexpected. Not meaning to be disparaging, but the EO vs. FO issue doesn't seem quite encompassing - after all, fragrance is only a small percentage of soap/cream. But, it doesn't have to be - you've got a great product priced where you feel it's appropriate; let the market decide. I hope it works well.

However, the change to the samplers is what shocked me. You had everybody beat by offering 1 oz. samples - awesome! Yes, the 1/2 oz. samples you're offering now will still be excellent. But, cutting the sample size in half yet still raising the price?! I would rather pay the same (or close to) price per ounce as the full size tubs, just the way you had it. I can understand charging a little more, but I have a hard time justifying a purchase of a sample at twice the price.

Regardless, I do wish you the best! :thumbup1:

[ltjaw]

Whoa - I missed the fine print on your website, Matt. The new sample pricing is $20 for five 1/2 ounce samples? This is twice the per once price of a tub! Once again, these are samples, and a customer may not like all five of the scents they receive. You have turned the samples into more of a commitment with your pricing. I think your price per tub is fine, and might purchase one if I get to sample it first. But I refuse to pay twice as much for a sample, so I guess I won't have the chance to try your new scents. Please reconsider your sample pricing.

[fluffman86]

I wouldn't call the current pricing unreasonable, but the fact of the matter is that 6 months ago you could buy a 4oz tub of cream for $7.50 ($1.88/oz). Granted this was a slightly different formula. Now, a 5oz tub of cream in the same scent is $18 ($3.60/oz), so close to double.
OK, I thought I was doing my math wrong, but I guess I wasn't. Before they offered the samples, I bought 4 tubs of cream and 4 bath soaps for $45 and picked up locally, so that means it was $7.50/4oz tub. Granted, that was a steal, but put it in the same price range as Proraso and C.O. Bigelow, which use SLS and other nasties. I had so much cream that I practically gave away some tiny samples. Now I'm *really* kicking myself.



Whoa - I missed the fine print on your website, Matt. The new sample pricing is $20 for five 1/2 ounce samples? This is twice the per once price of a tub! Once again, these are samples, and a customer may not like all five of the scents they receive. You have turned the samples into more of a commitment with your pricing. I think your price per tub is fine, and might purchase one if I get to sample it first. But I refuse to pay twice as much for a sample, so I guess I won't have the chance to try your new scents. Please reconsider your sample pricing.

+1. I almost ordered some thinking they were still one ounce. I've been using more of my old stash and wanted to re-stock but I'm going to have to hold onto it now.

While the current prices are not unreasonable compared to other high quality creams (like AOS and 3T's, which I *also* won't buy), I'm comparing them to MWF and L'Occitane Cade hard soaps, which are $10. I just can't justify paying the increased price. :(

[ESTEBE VERDE]

The Customer is Always Right. Always. Otherwise they won't be your customer.

The trick is in finding the sweet spot where both customer and merchant are happy.

There never has been a robbery in an even exchange! :thumbup:

[Slowhand]

Looks like the market is already dictating...

maybe QCS will reconsider their prices on the soaps. After reading a few of their reviews, it seems like just 9 months ago, the prices were about half of what they were just three weeks ago.

So, $7.50 --> $12-$16--> $18-20+ in less than a year's time? Really?

I wish you the best, but I will not be purchasing. Just a consumer speaking, nothing personal at all.

[SilverKarn]

Looks like the market is already dictating...

maybe QCS will reconsider their prices on the soaps. After reading a few of their reviews, it seems like just 9 months ago, the prices were about half of what they were just three weeks ago.

So, $7.50 --> $12-$16--> $18-20+ in less than a year's time? Really?

I wish you the best, but I will not be purchasing. Just a consumer speaking, nothing personal at all.

I never did research like this, i knew the soaps were cheaper in the past, but for prices to rise that much in less than a year?
No wonder people are complaining.

[BentonClay]

An unannounced, 200% price increase is hard to take, I empathize with that, but shouldn't we be willing to extend a little more grace to artisan vendors on domestic soil than we would to, say, multinational companies, who, after all, have the benefit of R&D teams, automation, and economies of scale when it comes to purchasing raw materials? I wish Matthew all the best.

[mretzloff]

Thank you all for your input and suggestions.

As stated in the original post, we want the customers to help make the decisions. If you are not happy with our prices, we are not either. Unfortunately, we cannot sell our products at the price level they were once at because of the rising cost of raw materials, but we have nonetheless adjusted the prices to a level we believe will allow everyone to be happy.

To thank you for getting us to where we are now, we are offering all of our current customers, who have purchased from us before, free shipping on all of their orders throughout the month of March. Your shipping will be refunded once your package ships. If you have not purchased from us before, we have something for you too. All new customers will receive a one-time 20% off our samples throughout the month of March. The 20% will be refunded once your package ships. If you would like to take advantage of either of these, you must specify so in the order comments.

All Badger & Blade members may start using the coupon code “bandb11” (without the quotations) to receive 5% off of their order. The coupon code may be used as many times as you see fit and is good until the end of the year, when it will be replaced with another one.

Some of you have mentioned our discontinued scents. If you have purchased a sample of these in the past and would like to purchase more, we will be more than happy to make you a custom batch at no extra charge.

[Austin]

Thanks Matthew for responding to your customers. Good luck.

[RichGem]

+1 Matthew. Great gestures and I wish you continued success!

[Barber-Eile]

Wow!
Fair play to ya Matthew! Truely a vendor who cares and listens (but then I knew that already!).
I thing the $16(ish) price point is a nice sweet spot and your offers of free shipping etc are amazing! I'm guessing this wouldn't cover international shipping though?

Anyway best of luck and congrats again on the new site :thumbup:

[mretzloff]

Wow!
Fair play to ya Matthew! Truely a vendor who cares and listens (but then I knew that already!).
I thing the $16(ish) price point is a nice sweet spot and your offers of free shipping etc are amazing! I'm guessing this wouldn't cover international shipping though?

Anyway best of luck and congrats again on the new site :thumbup:

If you would like to order, send me a PM with your order and we can work something out.

[touchdowntodd]

Thank you all for your input and suggestions.

As stated in the original post, we want the customers to help make the decisions. If you are not happy with our prices, we are not either. Unfortunately, we cannot sell our products at the price level they were once at because of the rising cost of raw materials, but we have nonetheless adjusted the prices to a level we believe will allow everyone to be happy.

To thank you for getting us to where we are now, we are offering all of our current customers, who have purchased from us before, free shipping on all of their orders throughout the month of March. Your shipping will be refunded once your package ships. If you have not purchased from us before, we have something for you too. All new customers will receive a one-time 20% off our samples throughout the month of March. The 20% will be refunded once your package ships. If you would like to take advantage of either of these, you must specify so in the order comments.

All Badger & Blade members may start using the coupon code “bandb11” (without the quotations) to receive 5% off of their order. The coupon code may be used as many times as you see fit and is good until the end of the year, when it will be replaced with another one.

Some of you have mentioned our discontinued scents. If you have purchased a sample of these in the past and would like to purchase more, we will be more than happy to make you a custom batch at no extra charge.

WOW!!! now THATS A NICE DEAL!

[Barber-Eile]

If you would like to order, send me a PM with your order and we can work something out.

I'm going to chip away a bit more at what I have ( am loving the riceflower soap in the sudser!) but if the urge takes me before the end of the month I'll let you know.

[bandg]

Order placed! Thanks Matthew, Bradley:thumbup1:

[DunEdinRanger]

How about a Vostok bath soap for those hot summer months?

[mretzloff]

How about a Vostok bath soap for those hot summer months?

I will certainly consider that. Thank you for the suggestion.

[TnutsShave]

Thank you all for your input and suggestions.

As stated in the original post, we want the customers to help make the decisions. If you are not happy with our prices, we are not either. Unfortunately, we cannot sell our products at the price level they were once at because of the rising cost of raw materials, but we have nonetheless adjusted the prices to a level we believe will allow everyone to be happy.

To thank you for getting us to where we are now, we are offering all of our current customers, who have purchased from us before, free shipping on all of their orders throughout the month of March. Your shipping will be refunded once your package ships. If you have not purchased from us before, we have something for you too. All new customers will receive a one-time 20% off our samples throughout the month of March. The 20% will be refunded once your package ships. If you would like to take advantage of either of these, you must specify so in the order comments.

All Badger & Blade members may start using the coupon code “bandb11” (without the quotations) to receive 5% off of their order. The coupon code may be used as many times as you see fit and is good until the end of the year, when it will be replaced with another one.

Some of you have mentioned our discontinued scents. If you have purchased a sample of these in the past and would like to purchase more, we will be more than happy to make you a custom batch at no extra charge.

A classy move and quite frankly, one that you did not HAVE to make if you didn't see fit. It's generally been my experience of late that most companies engaged in offering goods and services are of the "if you don't like it, feel free to take your business else where...there are more customers behind you to take your place".

You have a business need and increased cost to deal with and as such, passed that along to the consumer...not uncommon. Where you seem to differ is to have engaged and listened to the costumer to respond in kind.

Hat's off...I'll be placing my order soon.

Now, about those complimenting QCS aftershaves?:thumbup1:

[azmark]

Order coming your way in a few days.

[mretzloff]

Now, about those complimenting QCS aftershaves?:thumbup1:

They are certainly on The List. I have made a batch that I like, but would like to have it sit on my countertop for a few months before selling it, to make sure it holds up alright.

Thank you for the suggestion.

[CaptainK]

Wow - that's awesome, Matthew! :thumbup1: Thanks for listening.

These are not complaints; they're just intended as friendly suggestions, but I still think the sample pricing needs work. One way would be to go back to the 1 oz. samples! :laugh: (That would be the most awesome, but I understand if you can't.)

Another way ... I know that five 1/2 oz. containers might cost more than one 5 oz. container, plus there's a little more time involved in making samples, too - so I'm willing to pay a little more for samples. Based on the current pricing of your most expensive soaps (which are $3.60/oz., or $9.00 for 2.5 oz.), I'd be willing to pay $12.00 for the samples, if you eliminated the incremental charges for the more expensive selections.

Or, based on your least expensive soaps (which are $2.80/oz., or $7.00 for 2.5 oz.), I'd be willing to pay $10.00 for the samples, plus the incremental charges, if the incremental charges were cut in half. After all, each price increment is $2.00 for 5 oz., or 20¢ per half ounce. Even cutting the increments in half, they would be 25¢ per half ounce per increment.

Anyway, this is just MHO. I hope you take these comments in the spirit in which they're intended, which are shoot-from-the-hip swags, intended to be helpful and at least worthy of consideration. Once again, thanks for being so responsive! :thumbup1:

[mretzloff]

CaptainK, if you ordered now, that 20% off would make it $12 for a sample pack :wink2:

[RichGem]

Wow!
Fair play to ya Matthew! Truely a vendor who cares and listens (but then I knew that already!).
I thing the $16(ish) price point is a nice sweet spot and your offers of free shipping etc are amazing! I'm guessing this wouldn't cover international shipping though?

Anyway best of luck and congrats again on the new site :thumbup:


If you would like to order, send me a PM with your order and we can work something out.

Wow, DO NOT buy a used car from this woman! She'll get your last penny! :biggrin:

[CaptainK]

CaptainK, if you ordered now, that 20% off would make it $12 for a sample pack :wink2:
Yup, I know (but one would still have to pay the incremental charges for the more expensive scents). And, I may pull the trigger if I find a job or can sell something before the month is up - some of those new scents sound so intriguing - and I already know the quality of your stuff! :thumbup1:

My suggestions were intended more for the long run; after the special is up.

[ESTEBE VERDE]

Thank you all for your input and suggestions.

As stated in the original post, we want the customers to help make the decisions. If you are not happy with our prices, we are not either. Unfortunately, we cannot sell our products at the price level they were once at because of the rising cost of raw materials, but we have nonetheless adjusted the prices to a level we believe will allow everyone to be happy.

To thank you for getting us to where we are now, we are offering all of our current customers, who have purchased from us before, free shipping on all of their orders throughout the month of March. Your shipping will be refunded once your package ships. If you have not purchased from us before, we have something for you too. All new customers will receive a one-time 20% off our samples throughout the month of March. The 20% will be refunded once your package ships. If you would like to take advantage of either of these, you must specify so in the order comments.

All Badger & Blade members may start using the coupon code “bandb11” (without the quotations) to receive 5% off of their order. The coupon code may be used as many times as you see fit and is good until the end of the year, when it will be replaced with another one.

Some of you have mentioned our discontinued scents. If you have purchased a sample of these in the past and would like to purchase more, we will be more than happy to make you a custom batch at no extra charge.

The Customer is Always Right, And It Clearly Appears Matthew is Taking Care of His Customers, Past, Current, & Future! :thumbup1:

[mretzloff]

CaptainK, I will take that into consideration. Thank you for taking the time to help.



Wow, DO NOT buy a used car from this woman! She'll get your last penny! :biggrin:

Uh oh...better not look now (http://img508.imageshack.us/img508/6763/carcw.png) :scared:

[RichGem]

CaptainK, I will take that into consideration. Thank you for taking the time to help.




Uh oh...better not look now (http://img508.imageshack.us/img508/6763/carcw.png) :scared:

:lol:

I swear I didn't know what was happening until it was too late!

[KittensAndRainbows]

I would just like to share that I received a retroactive discount (a refund) on an order I placed before the weekend, to reflect the new pricing. I'm very glad the prices have been lowered, as that was the one thing holding me back.

The only suggestion I have would be to bring back the 3 sample option. I'm interested in some of the new scents, but I'm not sure I want 5 samples.

[fluffman86]

+1 million, and 10 gallon hats off to Matthew! You sir, are a gentleman and a scholar. :)

In my previous post I noted that $7.50 was a steal, which of course mean you were the one being robbed! :D I think $14 for most creams and $18 for the most complex/expensive is VERY reasonable.

I take back all of my regrets in my previous posts. Now my only regret is that I'm heading out of town for the weekend and can't swing by to pick some up! I'll be placing an order early next week at these current prices. I'm thinking a full tub of Vostok (which I haven't even tried!) and some of the new samples, plus enough key lime to last me all summer. :w00t: Oh, and some shampoo, and bath soap...and a bathtub holder thingy or two...

[mretzloff]

Just for clarification, the free shipping only applies to CONUS. If you do not live in CONUS, I can reduce the shipping by an appropriate amount.

[Confilo]

I just got my order from Matthew yesterday, Cayman and Esquire shaving soaps. The scents are terrific and Ms Confilo approves wholeheartily. I will try Cayman tomorrow since I love Bay Rum as much as Vetiver.
Matthew included 2 sample bath soaps, one of them Vetiver...great scent. I also received an unexpected refund. Muchas Gracias for everything
Mr. Matthew is always welcome to join Red Sox nation

[mretzloff]

Mr. Matthew is always welcome to join Red Sox nation

Would you be offended if I wrapped your next order in Yankees wrapping paper? :tongue_sm

[htownmmm]

I couldn't resist....

If I've said it once.........


Thank you all for your input and suggestions.

As stated in the original post, we want the customers to help make the decisions. If you are not happy with our prices, we are not either. Unfortunately, we cannot sell our products at the price level they were once at because of the rising cost of raw materials, but we have nonetheless adjusted the prices to a level we believe will allow everyone to be happy.

To thank you for getting us to where we are now, we are offering all of our current customers, who have purchased from us before, free shipping on all of their orders throughout the month of March. Your shipping will be refunded once your package ships. If you have not purchased from us before, we have something for you too. All new customers will receive a one-time 20% off our samples throughout the month of March. The 20% will be refunded once your package ships. If you would like to take advantage of either of these, you must specify so in the order comments.

All Badger & Blade members may start using the coupon code “bandb11” (without the quotations) to receive 5% off of their order. The coupon code may be used as many times as you see fit and is good until the end of the year, when it will be replaced with another one.

Some of you have mentioned our discontinued scents. If you have purchased a sample of these in the past and would like to purchase more, we will be more than happy to make you a custom batch at no extra charge.

Now that's what you call listening and responding to the customer!:thumbup1:

Obviously, I'll be ordering some more this month-I hear Vostok and Basilica calling me.:lol:

Matt, I support you 100%. You produce a GREAT product that was initially sold for to low of a price-which no one complained about and by the time word got out, it had increased. You changed from FO to EO due to the fact of complaints about the FO.

You have been extremely responsive to input(and patient) so I'm going on record as stating 'Somebody messes wit you, they messing wit me'- Kapish!


marty

[Confilo]

Would you be offended if I wrapped your next order in Yankees wrapping paper? :tongue_sm

Why should I? We are planning in wrapping the Championship this season.:001_cool:

[mretzloff]

Why should I? We are planning in wrapping the Championship this season.:001_cool:

Touché. We will see about that.

[TonyN]

Would you be offended if I wrapped your next order in Yankees wrapping paper? :tongue_sm

Not in the least Matthew...I was born in the Bronx, went to the Yankee stadium with my Dad and Grandfather and then used to go see the Yankees in Spring Training in Fort Lauderdale where I grew up.

I received my order of shaving cream samples yesterday and Matthew included 2 samples of soap. Matthew also issued a refund for the drop in price of the samples, the shipping and for one of the samples that has been discontinued. Now that's customer service! :thumbup1:

I will be placing additional orders with QCS and wish you all the best!

[Harvitz81]

Do you no longer have the Mysore Sandalwood? I'm looking for a nice pure EO sandalwood to compare to AOS soap.

[mretzloff]

Do you no longer have the Mysore Sandalwood? I'm looking for a nice pure EO sandalwood to compare to AOS soap.

We had an issue with our supplier that prevents us from continuing to sell it. If you purchased a sample of it, PM me your order number for a refund or replacement.

[RichGem]

New order showing up on your e-doorstep any moment now. :w00t:

[mretzloff]

Thank you, Rich. I am excited to see how you like the shampoo bar.

[RichGem]

Thank you, Rich. I am excited to see how you like the shampoo bar.

I'm looking forward to it myself. :biggrin: No doubt, another winner.

And thank you for the follow up re. my additional request. Class act all the way.

edit (4:35pm): And I just got a shipment notification. :jump:

[Doug_in_NNY]

I placed an order on Friday evening, 4 March. Matthew shipped it Monday morning and I received it Thursday, 10 March. It was packaged very well. The soaps and shaving creams have wonderful smells. And he included free samples.

On Wednesday I received a refund of four dollars each for two tubs of shaving cream I'd ordered. I wondered what that might be about, so I signed in to B&B and found this thread. Matthew is obviously a man of integrity and it's quite clear that he wants to do the right thing. Well, he's been more than fair with me. I expect to put in another order soon.

This is the kind of vendor I'm pleased to do business with.

Doug

[ltjaw]

Matt, thanks for listening to us. I placed an order for some samples today, and I hope to order tubs of my favorites before the end of the month. I'm really interested to smell the difference between the Rose Otto and your old rose cream.

[mretzloff]

Matt, thanks for listening to us. I placed an order for some samples today, and I hope to order tubs of my favorites before the end of the month. I'm really interested to smell the difference between the Rose Otto and your old rose cream.

I am interested to see what you think. Thank you for the order.

[Doug_in_NNY]

I just sent a second order. I like the variety of shaving creams and soaps.

After I've had time using some of these items, I'll be back to share observations.

Doug

[RichGem]

Got my order today; amazing turn around time.

(and shaved with a previously-orderd custom scented orange-clove SC (based off the bath soap) :drool:). The scented lingered for a good hour post-shave.

[Barber-Eile]

Uh oh...better not look now (http://img508.imageshack.us/img508/6763/carcw.png) :scared:

*snigger*suuucker*snigger*

[RichGem]

*snigger*suuucker*snigger*

Day late and a Euro short. :001_tt2:

[wimbouman]

Your Monaco and Queen Charlotte soap sound fantastic!
Are they here to stay? It will take a while before I'll finish the bespoke soaps!

[wimbouman]

...I hear Vostok and Basilica calling me....

Basilica is a great scent!

[bandg]

My order arrived promptly, and used the Basilica this am. Always get a great shave with my QCS creams.:thumbup1: Thanks Matthew, Bradley

[mretzloff]

Thank you all for your nice words.



Your Monaco and Queen Charlotte soap sound fantastic!
Are they here to stay? It will take a while before I'll finish the bespoke soaps!

All the scents are here to stay, unless people decide to stop ordering them.

[coyotewhisper]

I have been using Oakmoss and I really enjoy it. Five star customer service.

[mretzloff]

I have been using Oakmoss and I really enjoy it. Five star customer service.

I do not think we sell an Oakmoss. Perhaps you mean another product?

[htownmmm]

Basilica is a great scent!

I know-my first purchase of it I let one of my convertees choose which tub he got along with the Key Lime and that's the one he picked!:angry::angry:

next time, he gets no choice!!!!!:lol::lol:



marty

[Doodi1]

Placed my first order today. Looking forward to receiving it!

[RichGem]

BTW, the Cordovan soap smells exactly like a new briefcase.

[Elecid]

BTW, the Cordovan soap smells exactly like a new briefcase.

Really?!?

At any rate, I really enjoy Basilica and Celestial woods. Great performers too!

[RichGem]

Really?!?

At any rate, I really enjoy Basilica and Celestial woods. Great performers too!

:yesnod:

[christhach]

Wow! So I received my order. So far I've tried the new Cayman and Provence shave creams.

Cayman is a bay rum scent with a healthy does of orange/tangerine as well. The scent is AMAZING!!!!! The performance, as always with QCS is spectacular. I also noticed that Matt's addition of Palm oil to his soap formula has definitely increased the moisturizing properties of the shave cream. One of the best things about this cream, unlike other bay rum creams/soaps I've tried, is that there is zero burning sensation.

Provence is very interesting and different. Honestly, at first I wasn't sure if I liked it...in the same way that I wasn't sure if I liked the scent of Dior Eau Sauvage EDT - there are definitely some similarities between the two (although Eau Sauvage is way more lemony, while the lemon in Provence is buried under herbs, earth and woods).

Provence is a very strong, earthy/herbal scent that, to me, smells of: sage, basil, coriander, lemongrass, patchouli, cedar, vetiver & pollen. It smells like an earthy prairie after a storm. A completely natural scent, nothing artificial here. Obviously, it grows on you....a whole lot. I find it goes extremely well with the following products so far: Thayers lemon witch hazel, Eau Sauvage, SCS Aspect, L'Occitane 4 Voleurs.

Bravo Matt, this niche scent is a keeper!

Next up, 'Queen Charlotte' shave cream...

[ltjaw]

Matt,

SIX shaving cream samples arrived this afternoon (thank you for including the smaller but quite generous sample of Cayman, gratis). Also, thank you for the sample soap bar. I test lathered the Rose Otto, Esquire, Monaco, and Queen Charlotte creams to see how they really smell. They are all fantastic. Comparing Rose Otto to your original Rose cream, the newer scent is a touch more subdued and a more elegant rose fragrance. Less sweet, more floral. I prefer it to the older scent. My early favorite is Esquire, which I find to be a clean, citrusy (orange) scent, underlined by subtle floral and earthy hints. Perhaps you can give us more of a rundown on your signature fragrance, Queen Charlotte. To me, I pick up a bit of sandalwood in the scent. In fact, it reminds me of a subdued MPG Santal Noble. Very nice. I don't have your Mysore Sandalwood for comparison, though.

Congrats on the product improvement, and thanks again for great service and speedy shipping.

Andrew

[verdict]

I'm looking for a clean, light smelling soap, can anyone recommend one?

How are the shampoo bars?

[mretzloff]

Matt,

SIX shaving cream samples arrived this afternoon (thank you for including the smaller but quite generous sample of Cayman, gratis). Also, thank you for the sample soap bar. I test lathered the Rose Otto, Esquire, Monaco, and Queen Charlotte creams to see how they really smell. They are all fantastic. Comparing Rose Otto to your original Rose cream, the newer scent is a touch more subdued and a more elegant rose fragrance. Less sweet, more floral. I prefer it to the older scent. My early favorite is Esquire, which I find to be a clean, citrusy (orange) scent, underlined by subtle floral and earthy hints. Perhaps you can give us more of a rundown on your signature fragrance, Queen Charlotte. To me, I pick up a bit of sandalwood in the scent. In fact, it reminds me of a subdued MPG Santal Noble. Very nice. I don't have your Mysore Sandalwood for comparison, though.

Congrats on the product improvement, and thanks again for great service and speedy shipping.

Andrew

Esquire is one of my favorites as well, maybe my favorite. Queen Charlotte contains several rare absolutes and essential oils, including jasmine, rose, and sandalwood. There are other notes in there as well, but overall, I would say it is a scent with sweet top notes, floral mid notes, and woody base notes, certainly a complex scent.




I'm looking for a clean, light smelling soap, can anyone recommend one?

How are the shampoo bars?

For "clean, light smelling", I recommend the following in no particular order:

Hand and body soap
1. Green Irish Tweed Type
2. Lavender
3. Lemongrass
4. Sandalwood
5. Any of the scents here (http://www.queencharlottesoaps.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=11_13&zenid=2eaac87b79edbad2f914354572f26dfa).

Shaving cream
1. Esquire
2. Key Lime
3. Lavender
4. Provence
5. Rose Otto


If you need any more specific recommendations, please ask. I only sell products that I love and use myself, so I would have to say that I really do love those shampoo bars. I think they are a great alternative to commercial shampoo. If you need any more information on them, have a look at this page (http://www.queencharlottesoaps.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=9&zenid=2eaac87b79edbad2f914354572f26dfa) or ask.

I hope that helps :001_smile

[Price]

So I'd been poking around and putting off trying QCS. I don't need any more soap, but the oft-repeated glowing reviews kept me going back and forth. When the price change came up I was a bit put off, first disappointed I hadn't ordered some samples the previous week, then sort of at peace with the idea that it was a sign of sorts, that I really don't need to try these after all.

Then I hit upon this thread today, and after reading through it, I was simply astonished at the level of care and concern for the customer exhibited by Matt throughout. The discount was a very thoughtful (though as mentioned wholly unnecessary) gesture. I immediately ordered some samples, and if they are half as good as everyone seems to say they are, with the level of customer service you espouse and have demonstrated, you will be seeing plenty of repeat business from me in the future. Thanks Matt.

[mretzloff]

I don't need any more soap

I guess you proved yourself wrong :lol:

I am interested to see how you like your samples. Thank you.

[Price]

I guess you proved yourself wrong :lol:

I am interested to see how you like your samples. Thank you.

Me too!!! :biggrin1:

[verdict]

Esquire is one of my favorites as well, maybe my favorite. Queen Charlotte contains several rare absolutes and essential oils, including jasmine, rose, and sandalwood. There are other notes in there as well, but overall, I would say it is a scent with sweet top notes, floral mid notes, and woody base notes, certainly a complex scent.





For "clean, light smelling", I recommend the following in no particular order:

Hand and body soap
1. Green Irish Tweed Type
2. Lavender
3. Lemongrass
4. Sandalwood
5. Any of the scents here (http://www.queencharlottesoaps.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=11_13&zenid=2eaac87b79edbad2f914354572f26dfa).

Shaving cream
1. Esquire
2. Key Lime
3. Lavender
4. Provence
5. Rose Otto


If you need any more specific recommendations, please ask. I only sell products that I love and use myself, so I would have to say that I really do love those shampoo bars. I think they are a great alternative to commercial shampoo. If you need any more information on them, have a look at this page (http://www.queencharlottesoaps.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=9&zenid=2eaac87b79edbad2f914354572f26dfa) or ask.

I hope that helps :001_smile

I just placed an order! I had Irish Tweed already in my cart, so...

I'd order a tub of SC but I have a bunch of shaving goods as is :001_smile

[fluffman86]

I just placed an order! I had Irish Tweed already in my cart, so...

I'd order a tub of SC but I have a bunch of shaving goods as is :001_smile

You don't know what you're missing out on. I started my wetshaving journey with QCS, then moved away from it in favor of hard soaps like MWF and Boar brushes. For the last couple of weeks, I've used almost nothing BUT QCS, and I'm really getting back into the groove with it. For a while, I had some trouble, scared I would load too much cream if I used it like a soap so I would either dip it out or not load enough. The last few days, though, I've been loading like a soap (just shorter time) and bowl lathering (I usually face lather) and it's been working like a champ! Now today, I think I finally learned how to properly face lather this cream/soap (with the Custom Semogue Boar 50mm, no less!) and my face (and wife!) is really thankful. My face didn't even care that I used an old wally world wilkinson blade. :thumbup1:

Still putting off ordering some more though. I just need a few clients to pay me first. :)

[~Spyne~]

Matt, I tried to order a couple of creams today but couldn't get past Step 1 of the checkout process -


Shipping Method:
This is currently the only shipping method available to use on this order.
United States Postal Service United States Postal Service
We are unable to find a USPS shipping quote suitable for your mailing address and the shipping methods we typically use.
If you prefer to use USPS as your shipping method, please contact us for assistance.
(Please check that your Zip Code is entered correctly.)
When I click "continue checkout" it just takes me back to the same page/same message as quoted above.

This is odd, because I have previously been able to order some samples from you (prior to the new website)

[mretzloff]

Matt, I tried to order a couple of creams today but couldn't get past Step 1 of the checkout process -


When I click "continue checkout" it just takes me back to the same page/same message as quoted above.

This is odd, because I have previously been able to order some samples from you (prior to the new website)

Could you please PM me your last name and the country you live in? Sorry about the trouble.

[mretzloff]

My grandfather is not doing well. Because of that, my family and I will go to see him next week. We will be closed from Monday, March 28 to Wednesday, April 6. All orders placed before Saturday, March 26 at 3 PM EST will be shipped before we close. All order placed after Saturday, March 26 at 3 PM EST will be shipped after we return.

We will still be checking e-mail during this time. If you need to contact us, please see our Contact Us page (http://www.queencharlottesoaps.com/index.php?main_page=contact_us).

I apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused.

[rhmills]

I'm sorry to hear that. I hope he gets well soon!






My grandfather is not doing well. Because of that, my family and I will go to see him next week. We will be closed from Monday, March 28 to Wednesday, April 6. All orders placed before Saturday, March 26 at 3 PM EST will be shipped before we close. All order placed after Saturday, March 26 at 3 PM EST will be shipped after we return.

We will still be checking e-mail during this time. If you need to contact us, please see our Contact Us page (http://www.queencharlottesoaps.com/index.php?main_page=contact_us).

I apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused.

[RichGem]

I'm sorry to hear that. I hope he gets well soon!

ditto.

[Price]

I'm sorry to hear that. I hope he gets well soon!

+1. Best wishes for your family.

[CaptainK]

My grandfather is not doing well.
I'm sorry to hear that. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. Please keep us up to date.

[Confilo]

Wishing your grandfather a healthy recovery

[mretzloff]

Thank you for the thoughts, gentlemen.



Wishing your grandfather a healthy recovery

Thank you for the wishes, but unfortunately, I do not think that is going to happen. Over the past ten years, he has suffered multiple strokes. The most recent one has taken his ability to eat, drink, and walk.

The good thing, however, is that he feels no pain and is not really aware of how bad it is. I think it is more difficult for my grandmother because she sees how his health is deteriorating and has to take care of him.

[RichGem]

Thank you for the thoughts, gentlemen.




Thank you for the wishes, but unfortunately, I do not think that is going to happen. Over the past ten years, he has suffered multiple strokes. The most recent one has taken his ability to eat, drink, and walk.

The good thing, however, is that he feels no pain and is not really aware of how bad it is. I think it is more difficult for my grandmother because she sees how his health is deteriorating and has to take care of him.

So sorry to hear, Matt. Prayers for all concerned.

[azmark]

Sorry to hear about your grandfather, Matthew. My thoughts and prayers for your family's comfort.

[Confilo]

Thank you for the thoughts, gentlemen.




Thank you for the wishes, but unfortunately, I do not think that is going to happen. Over the past ten years, he has suffered multiple strokes. The most recent one has taken his ability to eat, drink, and walk.

The good thing, however, is that he feels no pain and is not really aware of how bad it is. I think it is more difficult for my grandmother because she sees how his health is deteriorating and has to take care of him.
Sorry to hear, but you are there with the family offering solace and support,
and I,m sure your grandfather knows it and appreciate it

[RazorbackFan]

Matthew, sorry to hear about your family situation. Best wishes for you and your family right now.

After reading this thread, I pulled the trigger on a tub of Vostok. The line on your site about "we don't believe a colder shaving product exists" is what did me in. After my first shave with it this morning, I must agree with your assessment. I'm a Proraso and Osage rub addict and was looking for something like Vostok. Man, it hit the spot. Hurt so good. I barely felt the Osage Rub afterwards since my face was still numb from the Vostok.

This is exactly what I wanted. I haven't heard much feedback about Vostok on B&B. If anybody out there is looking for the mother of all face freezes, look no further.

Matthew, any idea on the "average" amount of shaves per 5 oz. tub to expect? I loaded straight from the tub to the boar brush and face lathered. Didn't take much cream, either. Just curious.

Thanks again for making an excellent product and our prayers are with you.

[mretzloff]

Don, thank you for the nice wishes. How long a tub lasts you will depend on how much cream you use per shave.

I had a 24-ounce Glad container of my old (pre-November 2010) formula. With aggressive brush loading, I used the 24-ounce tub up in 215 days (seven months). That means a five-ounce tub of my old formula will last you 45 days. Since the new formula is much denser, and since you are probably not loading your brush as aggressively as I am, if you used that Vostok every day, you would use it up in two to three months, receiving anywhere from 61 to 92 shaves.

[h22o999]

My grandfather is not doing well. Because of that, my family and I will go to see him next week. We will be closed from Monday, March 28 to Wednesday, April 6. All orders placed before Saturday, March 26 at 3 PM EST will be shipped before we close. All order placed after Saturday, March 26 at 3 PM EST will be shipped after we return.

We will still be checking e-mail during this time. If you need to contact us, please see our Contact Us page (http://www.queencharlottesoaps.com/index.php?main_page=contact_us).

I apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused.

Matthew,

Best of luck next week!!! I have a grandfather in the same condition, I know exactly what you are going through...

Wanted to tell you that I recieved everything on my initial order from you in perfect condition and I think it is amazing stuff!!! Excellent products...:thumbup:

Kind Regards,

Justin

[mretzloff]

Thank you, Justin. If you have a second, let me know what you think of the individual scents.

[Marco]

Matthew, I have a couple of questions for you regarding QCS soaps. First, is the formulation of all your soaps one and the same, scent aside? Second, do you use natural fragrances (or natural oils) to scent your soaps? I mean do you use Lime oil in your Key Lime and Lavender oil in your Lavender? Thank you so much.

[mretzloff]

Marco, all creams are the same, except for the scents. All of them are scented with natural fragrances (essential oils).

[Marco]

Marco, all creams are the same, except for the scents. All of them are scented with natural fragrances (essential oils).

Thank you kindly, Sir. The QCS soaps are going to be my very first US made shaving soaps, after almost 16 years of wet shaving and some knowledge on European soaps. I do not know why, but I'm somehow certain that I won't be disappointed with your products, Matthew... :thumbup1:

[RichGem]

Thank you kindly, Sir. The QCS soaps are going to be my very first US made shaving soaps, after almost 16 years of wet shaving and some knowledge on European soaps. I do not know why, but I'm somehow certain that I won't be disappointed with your products, Matthew... :thumbup1:

Matt's soaps (soft soaps) are, imho, on par with the Italians, Marco and come in more than just almond scent. I seriously doubt you'll be disappointed. Try some of the bath soaps too.

Do note that Matt's soft soaps work best -- imho -- when face lathered and loaded into an almost dry brush (soak the brush, shake once or twice lightly, load brush then add water as needed). I lather right in the soap tub and get wonderful fluffy, protective lather.

[Marco]

Matt's soaps (soft soaps) are, imho, on par with the Italians, Marco and come in more than just almond scent. I seriously doubt you'll be disappointed. Try some of the bath soaps too.

Do note that Matt's soft soaps work best -- imho -- when face lathered and loaded into an almost dry brush (soak the brush, shake once or twice lightly, load brush then add water as needed). I lather right in the soap tub and get wonderful fluffy, protective lather.

Thank you, Richard. I just ordered two bowls of shaving soaps from Matthew: Key Lime and Lavender. And if they are really on par with the Italian soft soaps, well, what to say... That's simply fantastic! :thumbup:

[mretzloff]

The QCS soaps are going to be my very first US made shaving soaps, after almost 16 years of wet shaving and some knowledge on European soaps.

Thank you, Marco. That means a lot coming from someone who lives in a country with such a rich wet shaving history.

[RichGem]

Thank you, Richard. I just ordered two bowls of shaving soaps from Matthew: Key Lime and Lavender. And if they are really on par with the Italian soft soaps, well, what to say... That's simply fantastic! :thumbup:

You're welcome, Marco. Enjoy! The lime smells fantastic (I've not tried the lavandar & my small (but growing) collection is of the more exotic scents.) I'll be curious to hear what our resident Italian soap-ista ("saponista"?) thinks.

[Marco]

Thank you, Marco. That means a lot coming from someone who lives in a country with such a rich wet shaving history.

Matthew, I strongly believe that the best soaps in the World are those that are still crafted by hand, using pure and natural ingredients and employing century old proven methods. Valobra (Italy) and Martin de Candre (France) respond to these rare requirements and from what I read and saw the same can be said about Queen Charlotte Soaps.

[Marco]

You're welcome, Marco. Enjoy! The lime smells fantastic (I've not tried the lavandar & my small (but growing) collection is of the more exotic scents.) I'll be curious to hear what our resident Italian soap-ista ("saponista"?) thinks.

Well, it's quite hard to find a high quality Lime soap here in Europe. The only one that I really like is Castle Forbes Lime Oil. How does the QCS Key Lime compare to CF Lime Oil in scent and performance? And, Richard, sorry but "saponista" does not exist in the Italian dictionary. Anyhow nice attempt... :thumbup1:

[TonyN]

Well, it's quite hard to find a high quality Lime soap here in Europe. The only one that I really like is Castle Forbes Lime Oil. How does the QCS Key Lime compare to CF Lime Oil in scent and performance?:

Marco...While the CF Lime scent is good, I think the QCS scent is better and I definitely get better protection with the QCS.

[verdict]

I ordered a Tea Tree Lavender soap as well as the Irish Tweed Soap, along with two soap sudsers to hang them in, and I have no complaints.

These two sack of soaps has replaced my regular shower routine of shampoo/conditioner/bodywash/facewash.

The Tea Tree Lavender soap is more Tea Tree than lavender, which is nice because I thought the lavender would be too girly (I dorm with a few other guys). It doesn't dry out my face and my makes my hair clean and smelling good. Can't say anything about the "quality" of my hair but it's nice knowing you're using relatively natural ingredients to wash it. The tallow + tea tree should be good for it.

The Irish tweed is a good soap, doesn't dry me out and makes me feel clean. With some commercial bar soaps I would feel an aura of "slime" sometimes, this doesn't make me feel that way.

Good soaps, and the shaving cream samples were surprisingly good. All I did take out a little with my finger and put it on my synthetic brush...there was a LOT more lather than I expected.

[RichGem]

Well, it's quite hard to find a high quality Lime soap here in Europe. The only one that I really like is Castle Forbes Lime Oil. How does the QCS Key Lime compare to CF Lime Oil in scent and performance? And, Richard, sorry but "saponista" does not exist in the Italian dictionary. Anyhow nice attempt... :thumbup1:

Yeah, I was kinda reaching when I invented saponista. Well, at least I got credit for trying. :biggrin:

I can't compare QCS to CF as I've never smelled or used CF. Those who have seem to like the scent and performance of QCS more..

[Marco]

Marco...While the CF Lime scent is good, I think the QCS scent is better and I definitely get better protection with the QCS.

Thank you for your thoughts, Tony. :001_smile

[Marco]

Yeah, I was kinda reaching when I invented saponista. Well, at least I got credit for trying. :biggrin:

I can't compare QCS to CF as I've never smelled or used CF. Those who have seem to like the scent and performance of QCS more..

Richard, as soon as I'll get my new QCS soaps, a comparison between the two Limes will be made. To be honest, my expectations on Matt's soaps are quite high, even if I never used them. Anyhow all the good opinions posted here on B&B let me believe that I'll be more than happy with Queen Charlotte Soaps. Let's see...

[mretzloff]

I just wanted to let you all know that we are open again. Thank you for all of your patience.

[gaj90027]

Richard, as soon as I'll get my new QCS soaps, a comparison between the two Limes will be made. To be honest, my expectations on Matt's soaps are quite high, even if I never used them. Anyhow all the good opinions posted here on B&B let me believe that I'll be more than happy with Queen Charlotte Soaps. Let's see...

Can't wait to read your thoughts on Matt's Key Lime versus Castle Forbes.

QCS actually bumped CF out of my rotation as I felt the scent and performance of QCS equaled if not exceeded that of CF. When you factor in the cost QCS was the clear winner for my shave den! :thumbup1:

[RichGem]

I just wanted to let you all know that we are open again. Thank you for all of your patience.

Glad you're back, Matthew!

[h22o999]

Thank you, Justin. If you have a second, let me know what you think of the individual scents.

Matthew,

The scents are all wonderful!!! I really like the Briar and the GIT, the shaving cream is top notch, I will be ordering more for sure!!! Thanks for the samples by the way...:thumbup1:

Also your shampoo bar is great, I think my wife really loves it because now I don't waste her girly stuff on me...:lol:

Justin

[mretzloff]

Also your shampoo bar is great, I think my wife really loves it because now I don't waste her girly stuff on me...:lol:

It is always a good thing when the wife is happy :thumbup1:

[Price]

Good to see you back Matt. I've been working the samples into my rotation. First of all, I shouldn't have been concerned about the sample size change - the 1/2 oz size is enough for several shaves, and they were all generously filled.:001_smile At first I was having a little trouble getting a good lather, but I attribute that more to user error than the product, as it is a different consistency from anything I have previously used. I finally found the sweet spot after four shaves, and I have to say you make a great product. I don't think I've found "the keeper" yet - I went with some of the more exotic scents for the sampler, and Queen Charlotte might be the one, but I think I'm probably going to get another sampler to try the rest first. One thing I am definitely going to be ordering is the shampoo bar. I finally started using the sample you sent with my order, and I am thrilled with its performance. A wonderful product.:thumbup1:

Thanks again Matt. Best of luck to you, and keep up the good work!

[mretzloff]

Thank you, Price. After you are all done with your sampling, I would love to hear your thoughts on the scents, good or bad.

[htownmmm]

Now that Matt is back, I just ordered some Vostok; must be ready for the heat(or is that wishful thinking?).



marty

[mretzloff]

Now that Matt is back, I just ordered some Vostok; must be ready for the heat(or is that wishful thinking?).



marty

I do not know what is better: using Vostok in the summer and then standing under an air conditioning vent or using Vostok in the winter and then taking a walk outside :w00t:

[Lost Dog]

I do not know what is better: using Vostok in the summer and then standing under an air conditioning vent or using Vostok in the winter and then taking a walk outside :w00t:

I just learned about QCS and Vostok. I immediately sold a few razors I had to allow for a purchase. I've got Vostok on the way. I wish I would have looked around a bit because I just noticed they have a Bay Rum variant. I wish I would have picked up some of that too :sad:

I primarily use a Bay Rum soap and aftershave. A few weeks ago I was traveling for work and had been gone a few days. One of those days my wife was in the kitchen cooking with our 2 year old. He picked up a spice jar of cloves, took a big sniff and his face immediately lit up and he yelled "DADDY!!!!!!!!" Looks like we're both hooked on Bay Rum.

Has anyone tried the BR from QCS? How is it?

[christhach]

I just learned about QCS and Vostok. I immediately sold a few razors I had to allow for a purchase. I've got Vostok on the way. I wish I would have looked around a bit because I just noticed they have a Bay Rum variant. I wish I would have picked up some of that too :sad:

I primarily use a Bay Rum soap and aftershave. A few weeks ago I was traveling for work and had been gone a few days. One of those days my wife was in the kitchen cooking with our 2 year old. He picked up a spice jar of cloves, took a big sniff and his face immediately lit up and he yelled "DADDY!!!!!!!!" Looks like we're both hooked on Bay Rum.

Has anyone tried the BR from QCS? How is it?

It is outstanding. Just a delicious fragrance of deep bay rum, light spices (not heavy on the clove or cinnamon), and juicy orange / citrus. I kinda want to eat it when I shave with it. :tongue_sm

[Lost Dog]

It is outstanding. Just a delicious fragrance of deep bay rum, light spices (not heavy on the clove or cinnamon), and juicy orange / citrus. I kinda want to eat it when I shave with it. :tongue_sm

Perfect timing... I just got the Vostok in the mail this evening. I found a nice extra of a sample of Key Lime. I want to eat that.

As the little monster-boy was taking a bath I did a test lather of Vostok. WOW. My face tingled for about 10 minutes. GREAT!!! This will be perfect for summer.

I may need to order more because my wife smelled it and asked if it would be good for her legs. :glare: