OCALA, FL (352today.com) Magnolia Soap and Bath Company officially opened its doors for their Grand Opening on June 20 at Gaitway Plaza, bringing plant-based ingredients and small-batch Southern charm to the local shopping scene. The new store is owned by Cynthia and Phillip Everett, a couple who relocated from Oklahoma to Ocala last fall.

After years of visiting family in Central Florida, the Everetts made the move permanent in 2024 and quickly knew they wanted to invest in the community they now call home.

Dozens of people wait in line outside Magnolia Soap and Bath Company during the store’s grand opening, with blue balloon columns flanking the entrance in Ocala.
A crowd lines up outside Magnolia Soap and Bath Company for the grand opening event on June 20 at Gaitway Plaza in Ocala. Courtesy: Aurora Amesbury/352today

The franchise, which has grown quickly across the East, is known for its handmade soaps, bath bombs, pet care, laundry soap, and skincare—all crafted with non-toxic, vegan, plant-based ingredients. Their soaps are made with only five ingredients, so there are no surprises in your self-care.

Their grand opening event on June 20 drew a strong show of support from the community. To celebrate, the first 50 purchases of the day received a free soap for an entire year—a promotion that had customers lining up early to take advantage.

Smiling customer holding a laundry basket of soap and body care items inside Magnolia Soap and Bath Company during the grand opening event in Ocala.
Colorful handmade soaps stacked on display tables inside Magnolia Soap and Bath Company in Ocala.
Cynthia Everett, wearing a Magnolia Soap shirt, smiles while setting up an ice bath with a bag of ice inside the store during the grand opening event in Ocala.
Assorted bath bombs in vibrant colors neatly arranged in wooden display trays at Magnolia Soap and Bath Company in Ocala.
Customers browse colorful soaps and bath items displayed in glass jars inside Magnolia Soap and Bath Company during its grand opening in Ocala.
Shoppers at the checkout counter inside Magnolia Soap and Bath Company during its grand opening event, with blue balloons and product displays in the background.
Magnolia Soap and Bath Company celebrated its grand opening on June 20 at Gaitway Plaza in Ocala, drawing crowds eager to explore the handmade, plant-based products and support a new local business with Southern charm. Courtesy: Aurora Amesbury/352today

Preparing for launch included months of navigating licensing, renovations, and creating the products in-house—all while adjusting to a new city.

One of the initiatives the Everetts are most excited about is a program called Hope in the Soap. Each month, the store partners with a local charity or nonprofit organization, donating a percentage of proceeds from product sales to support their mission. It’s a key way Magnolia Soap and Bath Ocala plans to stay involved in the community and make a lasting, local impact—one bar of soap at a time.

The Everetts see Magnolia as more than just a store—they want it to be a positive, welcoming presence in the community. With customizable gift sets, seasonal scents, and locally themed products, they hope to offer something personal and joyful for every customer who walks in.

Magnolia Soap and Bath Ocala is now open in Gaitway Plaza, with new products being made daily. You can join the Magnolia Soap Loyalty Program, or you can follow along on social media at @ocalamagnoliasoapandbath for updates, promotions, and event announcements.

Ready to smell for yourself? Stop by, say hi, and support a small business rooted in heart, health, and home.

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