Hi. Iím Colleen Trickett. My interest in making my own products was sparked by my love of nature, essential oils, creating beautiful and practical DIY gifts, a desire to use and promote cruelty free products and to avoid the harsh chemicals found in commercial body products. It all started around 1999, when I found a book on soap making while dog sitting for fellow environmental activist, Noreen Warnock. I went right to work searching out suppliers for Coconut oil, Palm Oil, Olive Oil, and other vegetable oils and butters. These supplies were not easy to find locally. I ended up having to mail order most of my ingredients in 50 pound pails. About $250.00 later, I became a crazed soap maker. Luckily people wanted to pay me for what I love to do. With a desire to make original formulations, I started studying chemistry, Aromatherapy, herbs, properties of oils, and FDA requirements. As business starting picking up, I realized that I needed a name. I started out with Botanical Balance and registered it with the secretary of State. About a year later I found that there was another Botanical Balance out there who was not too happy that I had her domain name. After many a lawyer conference, I ceased and desisted, sold the domain name, then changed my name to Green Girl Basics. People ask “why the name?” I tell them that it relays my mission and Irish heritage. Chi Anne Kemp, my sister and dearest friend, dedicates a lot of her time to Green Girl Basics. She is a single mother working with Green Girl Basics from her home. We set up a shipping area for her where she handles all the shipping of supplies to other handmade toiletry makers. She has also helped with shows, production, administration and sales. Chris Pritchard, AKA Pritch, helps with web design. He does a super job and is always there when I need help with anything website related. One day, I'll cut him a fat check. For now he works for Pizza, beer and of course soap (Tea Tree and Seaweed is his favorite). He is a great friend to whom I owe a great deal of thanks. He has a heart of gold. Check out his website: Pritchslapped.com Jake Baytos, AKA Wasso, has been a super help since day one. When I first started making soap, I lived in a 1-bedroom apartment where I had a small storage space in the basement. Jake built me a workbench and my first wooden soap mold. When I outgrew that space and moved to a larger location, Jake built all my counter space, and shelving. We have been close friends since 1992. I would not be where I am today with out his help. Send him fan mail at wasso24@aol.com.