One of the many reasons we started a social enterprise selling soap and artisanal crafts, was not just because of the amazing laurel oil soaps from Aleppo, but also because we wanted to make a meaningful difference for entrepreneurs and artisans in Syria affected by the war. As well as hopefully change the narrative around a region whose story was so much more than war and refugees. What we didn’t expect was the joy it brought to Syrian-Americans who had not been back to Syria for many years. Receiving a customer testimonial like this one from May in Texas, who gifted her mother in Tennessee our Aleppo laurel soaps, was when we realized we were making a difference in the lives of Syrians inside Syria AND Syrian-Americans living in the U.S. Many of whom were nostalgic for their roots as well as an ancient heritage impacted by war:

“My family is originally from Aleppo. So, when I found the Mint + Laurel website, I knew that I needed to purchase these soaps. I was very impressed with the types of soaps and other items while shopping the website. Most importantly, I was really touched by the stories of each artisan and their work. I decided to purchase a variety of soaps in the signature bag for my mom’s birthday. While checking out on the website, I forgot to specify which soaps I wanted for my order. So, I emailed Mint + Laurel and explained my mishap and which soaps I wanted. Right away I received an email from them assuring me that my order was updated and that my bag will ship soon. My mother received the soaps on time with the signature bag. I received a call from her in tears because she was in awe of the products. She said, “They smell just like home (Syria) and the bag is so beautiful, it’s exactly like the ones I’ve seen in Aleppo.” I told her that these products were made in Syria by local artisans which made her tear up even more. When I visited my parents, they both asked me about Mint + Laurel. My dad, who is difficult to impress with soaps, was so excited that we found products from Syria during this time of upheaval for the country. We are happy to continue purchasing items from Mint + Laurel to support local artisans in that region and to enjoy the amazing smells of Syria.” 

Our Aleppo Soap Set of Six comes with our Signature Aghabani Gift bag embroidered by a women’s collective in Damascus. Aghabani is a 150 year old Damascene traditional embroidery craft. These 25 Syrian women, whose lives have been impacted by war, support their families through the Aghabani traditional craft.