We had the good fortune of connecting with Steph Lloyd and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Steph, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My parents were business owners so it only seemed natural to have one of my own. I learned to make soap from my mom and have been lucky enough to glean knowledge from her for Luka Soap Co. When the pandemic hit, and I suddenly had more time on my hands, I decided to start making soap. I signed up for some local markets and created a website. It was a huge success! I had a hard time keeping up with the demand in 2020. Sales have leveled out but I’m grateful to have so many loyal customers who reorder and support us at local markets. I have learned so much about business and love that I can form relationships with the people I meet!

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Luka Soap Co. provides bath and body products that are really great for your skin. We use certified organic vegetable oils, plant waxes, certified organic botanicals, clays, and salts in our products. Our packaging is either reusable, recyclable, or compostable. Our goals are to provide high quality products with as low of an impact on the environment as possible. We have found that our values align with many people out there and are proud to play a part in their no/low waste lifestyles.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Tulsa has so many great culinary offerings! I would take my bestie to lunch at Prism Cafe in the Heights. It’s small, local and delish! We would have a meal at my favorite restaurant in town, Korean Garden. Jin and his family make the best Korean food in town! Mother Road Market shouldn’t be missed either. I’d definitely introduce her to the Mushroom Madness Wrap at Curds and Whey. Shades of Brown is the best coffee shop in town for a unique drink and relaxing environment.

As far as places to visit, we’d spend some time at the Philbrook taking in the art and gardens. Weather permitting, we’d spend time at the Gathering Place. The park is not only for kids, you can spend a whole afternoon enjoying the beautiful paths, landscaping, and buildings. Don’t forget to take the kayaks out! The Tulsa Farmers’ Market is super big and has a lot of beautiful produce and is a lot of fun to walk through on a Saturday morning. Lastly, we’d find one of the local makers’ markets taking place and shop for something local and unique!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My story would not have happened without the support of my friends and family. My friends encouraged me to use my skills and talents to pursue this business. My husband supported me through brainstorming sessions, late-night productions, and moments of doubt. My parents showed me not only how to make soap but also how to go out and form new partnerships and find new customers. I’m grateful to the Tulsa community too. We have a strong entrepreneurial spirit here and everyone is willing to jump in and support in whatever ways are needed. Luka Soap Co. wouldn’t be what it is without it!

Website: www.lukasoap.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/lukasoapco

Facebook: www.facebook.com/lukasoapco

Image Credits
All photos are mine except beard balm by @good_wknd.

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