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Williston, Vermont - December 10, 2010

A Williston workplace is tight on space because business is booming. "It's very busy," said Jared Ather of Carved Solutions. "It's controlled chaos for sure!"

Carved Solutions produces personalized soaps and candles. The more than four-year-old company is the brainchild of Burlington native Dawn Lancaster. "Everyone loves to see their name in lights. And when you hand them that product that's specifically made for them, it's that extra special thoughtfulness that makes the gifts count," Lancaster said.

She studied business at Champlain College and gave up a career in marketing to start her own company. That gamble paid off. Despite the recession, Carved Solutions saw explosive growth, even landing a spot in Oprah Winfrey's holiday gift guides. One-thousand boutiques nationwide carry the gently-scented soaps and candles, and Carved Solutions supplies national retailers' catalogs including Pottery Barn and Lands' End.

Most of the sales for the entire year come in the month before Christmas. The team is working 7 days a week and close to 24 hours a day. "And our retailers are really cranking this year; we're seeing a change in the economy," Lancaster said.

Customers request their initials, corporate logos, Greek sorority letters and more. A proprietary network of machines precisely drills them into blank soap and wax; all bought from other Vermont manufacturers.

"Made in Vermont is very, very special," Lancaster said. "It comes with the craftsmanship people are expecting to receive; the quality level they're hoping for."

A seasonal workforce of 10 is filling Christmas personalization orders from all over the country and even from as far away as Australia. But the founder is already thinking about what's next-- Valentine's Day and beyond. "We're coming into trade show season so the retailers are actually already thinking about Christmas 2011!" Lancaster said.

She plans to expand her manufacturing space next year, but for now the countdown is on to when Carved Solutions can finally take a break after Christmas. "The 26th? I think I'm going to do some sleeping-- maybe some relaxing!!" Lancaster said.

Tiring work, but she's glad to do it. And proud to be "Made in Vermont."

A set of three bars of luxury soap costs $30. A personalized pillar candle is the same price. They also monogram cloth and disposable hand towels. Click here to visit their website.

Jack Thurston - WCAX News - Made in Vermont