08/12/2026
This is a difficult post to write — but, in some ways, an exciting one too.
After a great deal of thought, Mike and I have decided that The Santa Fe Soap Ranch will close its brick-and-mortar store on December 31, 2026.
There are so many reasons behind this decision. The last few years have brought challenges we never expected. Mike's tumor and the continued trips to Mayo, along with his recent mini stroke, have reminded us that there are things in life that simply shouldn't keep being put off. We've also reached that stage where conversations about powers of attorney, healthcare directives, estate planning and all of those very grown-up things have become part of life.
But this decision isn't only about the difficult things.
It's also about what we want more of.
More time with our sons and our family. More quiet days at the cabin. More mornings in the garden. Maybe a trip here and there. More time together without always having to ask, "Who's covering the store?"
And we're actually excited about that.
So while December 31 will mark the end of our physical store, it will not be the end of The Santa Fe Soap Ranch.
Beginning in January, our products will be available through our online store. We are committed to continuing online throughout 2027, and after that, we'll see where life takes us.
As we get closer to the end of the year, we'll also be taking a thoughtful look at our product line. Some favorites will remain available year-round, some products may become seasonal, and there will likely be a few that we'll say goodbye to.
We've spent many years building this little business, and it has become so much more than soap. We've met wonderful people, watched customers become friends, and had the privilege of being a small part of your lives and your families.
So between now and December 31, please come see us. Come in and say hello. Stay awhile and chat. Tell us your story — how you found us, what brought you through our doors, or simply what's happening in your life. We would love to hear it.
There are so many people we've come to know across the counter over the years, and we want these last months in the store to be about enjoying that part of the Soap Ranch too.
We're not quite ready for the big goodbye — because this isn't goodbye yet.
For now, the doors are open, we're still making soap, and we're looking forward to enjoying these last months in the store with all of you.
And when January comes, we'll simply be doing things a little differently.
With love and gratitude,
Liz & Mike
The Santa Fe Soap Ranch
