Who said that having healthy skin had to be boring? With clean skincare being at the forefront of the beauty industry today, we are learning that we do not have the compromise smelling good and using products we enjoy using for products that are healthy for our skin.
Meet the Woman of the Hour
Jennifer (fondly known as “Jenny”) Bolster is the owner of the Magnolia Soap and Bath franchise located in Hattiesburg. This phenomenal business prides itself on its clean beauty practices and unique shopping experience.
Over 20 years ago, she and her beloved husband, Travis, relocated to Hattiesburg, from New Orleans, to raise their children after they purchased their first Smoothie King franchise. Jenny describes Hattiesburg as a “generous community” and is thankful to have been able to raise her four children in the Hub City.
“As we grew our business, our family grew, and I became a homemaker and mom taxi. However, when the space between Q’doba and Smoothie King became vacant, we needed a tenant,” Jenny explained. “Upon extensive research, Travis stumbled upon Magnolia. Research showed us that it is a Mississippi-based company and has continuity with our promotion of wellness in the community. The rest is history. Meeting Magen Bynam [owner of Magnolia Soap and Bath] and learning about her vision has changed my life. Each day is fulfilling, and I am so excited for everyone to learn about our products.”
The Importance of Clean Skincare
Having skincare products that you look forward to using and that have health benefits is crucial. After all, what good are the products if you aren’t using them? Feeling excited to apply your body butter or use a new whipped body scrub that you know is benefitting your skin is a win-win situation. I asked Jenny why she felt clean skincare products were needed.
“There are so many harsh chemicals in mass-distributed skin care products,” she said. “Most people don’t know what half the ingredients mean. Our products are all plant-based with no parabens, phthalates, or preservatives. All allergens are eliminated. Our products are made in the store with all-natural, simple ingredients listed on our labels.”
Speaking of making all of their products in-store, the staff at Magnolia have a distinctive work experience.
“We make all of our products in the store. At any moment during the day, guests can enter our store to see those products being whipped, poured, or molded,” Jennifer continued. “A visit to Magnolia Soap and Bath is an experience that activates your senses in the most unique way. Our products invoke your sense of smell without causing a headache. Our soaps, bath bombs, shower steamers, etc. make a beautiful rainbow of colors. Shoppers can pick up and sample all of the products in the store. Children are encouraged to join in the fun by sampling and handling our fun kids’ products. Even pets are welcome in the store, as we have a pet line and offer treats for our furry friends.”
The Magnolia Experience
As outlined above, the distinctive experience of the staff carries over into the unique shopping experience of Magnolia’s customers. Jenny encourages her associates to be friendly and welcoming to every guest.
“In addition, we have a policy of welcoming every customer through our doors. All of my associates are encouraged to make each guest feel as if he or she is the most important person in the room. From offering free gift wrapping to delivering surprises to unexpected birthday celebrants or new pledges, or ‘hugging our customers,’ whether virtually or literally—this is our goal each day when the door is unlocked.”
Making people feel like more than guests — like family — is part of what makes shopping at Magnolia immensely fulfilling. It’s always interesting to know what people’s favorite products are, so I asked Jenny what hers is. She confidently stated that it is the whipped sugar scrub, due to its duality in its exfoliating and moisturizing properties. As a busy mom, Jenny is always looking to save time, and this product is the perfect way to get the best of both worlds — saving time and taking care of her skin!
The Final Step
Hattiesburg is filled with amazing people who make strides to improve the lives of the community, such as Jenny. Through Magnolia Soap and Bath, Jenny has created an incredible community of people who are passionate about prioritizing health in their skincare routine.
