And more!
Robin Bischoping has farmed with her husband, Mathias, for eleven years and three years ago added bee boxes, and a new business was born. Not only d
o they produce honey, but she uses the beeswax in lips balms, soaps and and my new favorite moisturizer, lotion bars.
It’s said, that necessity is the mother of invention. This holds true for Robin when she started making natural soaps since commercial grade soaps contain inexpensive oils and synthetic detergents. True, wholesome, handmade soap contain oils, sodium hydroxide (lye) and fragrance. But hold on, through a process called saponification, once the soap is made and cured, there is no lye left in the finished bar, only the natural ingredients used to make the soap. “Friends wanted products and the business grew from there. They really enjoy and appreciate our natural handmade skincare products and I’m happy that they’re comfortable using them,” said Robin.
She gets very creative with her soaps plus they are works of art. Using unusual combinations and ingredients, the aroma is subtle and the colors will coordinate with palettes in your bathrooms. Her latest varieties contain a 
gemstone and positive messaging. Prices range from $7-10.
Her Lotion Bars contain beeswax and natural oils. I bought the unscented bar which has a soft beeswax scent. To apply, simply hold or rub the bar and it will soften with the temperature of your skin. I’ve used it for 3 days, and my hands are soft, even in the dry heat from the furnace. I love how it feels as it melts on your skin and at $7 for a bar, it will soothe your dry skin for a long time.
Her Lip Balms are also made with beeswax and at $3.50, come in several flavors, and will stay on your lips even after enjoying a beverage.
I have a lot of respect for the farmers who work so hard here in Western New York and their creative ideas to make a living. It’s survival of the fittest here with the long winters and short growing season and to produce quality, natural, handmade products in the off-season is to their credit. All of their products, and there are plenty more not mentioned here, are on sold on Etsy and can be shipped nationally. Check out their page: https://www.etsy.com/shop/rmbischopingfarms They’re also at the Brighton Farmers Market, open year-around, on Sundays.
Opinions of the author are her own and products were purchased or otherwise noted for discussion. I welcome your comments and suggestions for food and specialty items from upstate New York and can be reached at: linda@anexpatreturns.com
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