Maryann Ryan: Contemporary Traditions Soap

Maryann Ryan has blended her interests in science and art to create a skin-friendly, beneficial soap. Her saponified soaps not only look and smell great, but are extremely beneficial for your skin.

At the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts at North Adams, Maryann studied both psychology and sociology. The sociology requirements included biology and chemistry, where she learned all about acids and bases, the basics of soap making.

After college, Maryann had started quilting as a hobby. That hobby quickly developed into a business named Contemporary Traditions. Her soap crafting began with glycerin soaps, which launched her quest for ever-improved formulas. Reading every available book on the subject, Maryann eventually discovered the formulas for the Super Naturals and Butter Naturals.

Maryann enjoys the four distinct seasons of Massachusetts. "I have lived in more tempered climates, but the weather here always keeps things interesting as well as unpredictable," she notes. "The seasons help keep me aware of the passage of time. It is a bonus to be within 1-2 hours of the beach, mountains, country or city."

The Contemporary Traditions soaps have sold not only in the United States, but also as far away as Switzerland.