DEBORAH KRAEMER’s career as a soap manufacturer, teacher and entrepreneur grew out of her experience as a mother. When her baby was unable to tolerate commercially manufactured soap, she became a formulator to produce soap he could tolerate. Along the way, she discovered a passion for turning common self-care practices, into helping organizations help build community. Deb founded the Chicago Soap Company, manufacturing soap but more importantly co-producing alongside Farmer’s Markets until opening her own shop in Chicago, she has a thriving private label business as well as producing a full line of skin care products under the successful brand, Abbey Brown. Deborah not only conducts regular soapmaking workshops but travels around the world learning from farmers and distillers while helping entrepreneurs, as well as those in disadvantaged communities in America. Her goal is to teach selfcare, utilize the benefits of aromatherapy, start and maintain entrepreneurial businesses and support a green environment. She is involved in several woman’s organizations and takes a special interest in empowering women to find more satisfaction in their journey through life.