Cinderella's Handmade Soap and the Yackandandah Market Story.
The Yackandandah Market is more than just a place to shop; its the heart of a vibrant community, showcasing the best of the local artristry and craftsmanship. For over a decade, one stall has been a constant, fragrant presence: Cinderella's Handmade Soap and Beauty Products. The story behind this beloved brand is one of passion, family, and a deep rooted connection with the Yackandandah community.
At the helm are Cindy and her daughter Vanessa Duncan.Together, with support from Cindys husband Gaz, they have built a proudly Australian made and owned business that has become a staple for locals and a must visit for tourists. Their journey is a testament to how a newfound passion can transform a life and, enrich a community.
From Irrigation Systems to Artisan Soaps.
Fourteen years ago, Cindy Stares retired from the demanding career building large-scale irrigation systems across Australia with her husband Gaz. She was searching for a new direction, a new passion to pour her energy into. That new path revealed itself in a milk carton.
Cindy vividly recalls the day she made her first batch of cold processed soap in a milk carton. The process of transforming basic oils and lye into a beautiful, functional bar of soap was nothing short of magical, and she was instantly captivated. The initial spark ignited a fire, leading to months and then years of dedicated research and daily practice. What started as a hobby quickly evolved onto an obsession, and then profession. Today, thousands of batches later, that same sense of wonder remains. The art and science of soap making continue to inspire her. This dedication is evident in the quality and variety of products offered by Cinderella's Handmade Soap.
Handcrafted Excellence.
What began with a single type of soap has blossomed into an extensive collection of bath, body and personal care products. Cinderella's now produces an impressive range of approximately 170 different types of soap, each with its unique blend of ingredients, scents and benefits. From luxurious moisturising bars to invigorating exfoliants, there is a soap for every skin type and preference.
Beyond soap, the product line has expanded to include around 60 other items. This includes rich body butters, soothing balms, aromatic bath bombs, magnesium products and a variety of other personal care essentials. Every product is crafted with the same attention to detail and commitment to quality that defined Cindy's very first batch.
This incredible output is a team effort. Vanessa plays a crucial role in the business, managing stock control and leading the soap production. Her involvement ensures that the brand can keep up with growing demand without compromising on its handmade principles. Meanwhile Gaz handles the essential tasks of wrapping, labelling, and building brand awareness through marketing and social media.
Deep Roots in the Yackandandah Community.
From the very beginning, the Yackandandah Market has been central to the Cinderella's story. Cindy's first ever market stall was at the Yackandandah Lions Club Market, and she has been a fixture there for 13 years. Over that time she has attended approximately 140 markets at Yackandandah building lasting relationships with customers and fellow stallholders.
The choice to make the Yackandandah Market thier primary venue was a deliberate one. The market is run by the Yackandandah Lions Club and all proceeds are channelled back into supporting the local community. This alignment of values was important to Cindy and her family. By participating in the market, they are not only running a buisness but also contributing to the wellbeing of the town they call home.
This community-first philosophy is at the core of the brand. Cindy and Vanessa are quick to point out that they didn't build the business alone. " Our customers have built it for us," they often say, and they mean it sincerely. The loyalty and support of their customers have been the driving force behind their success.
The Evolution of the Yackandandah Market. Over the years the Yackandandah Market has transformed. It has grown from a traditional local market into a celebrated hub for artisan makers, drawing visitors from all over Australia. Its a place where creativity flourishes and where people can connect directly with the makers behind the products they buy.
This evolution has created the perfect enviroment for businesses like Cinderella's Handmade Soap to thrive. The market provides a platform for artisans to share their passion and their products with a wider audience that appreciates quality, authenticity, and local craftmanship. The success of Cinderella's is intertwined with the success of the market, each one contributing to the other's vibrant character.
Visit Cinderella's at the Yackandandah Market.
The story of Cinderella's Handmade Soap is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved with passion, dedication and a strong community connection. It's a story of a mother and daughter team who turned a hobby into a thriving business, all while staying true to their handmade ethos and their commitment to local values.