Sarah Ryhanen, Co-Owner
Sarah is a self-taught floral designer, stylist and writer. She is also co-founder of The Little Flower School. Her work has appeared in publications such as The New York Times, Vogue and Martha Stewart. Her flowers and experiences are chronicled in her blog: www.saipua.blogspot.com.
Eric Famisan, Co-Owner
Eric runs the soap retail operation. His background in civil engineering is called upon when structural questions arise during wedding and event production. He maintains an ever-growing collection of props and bric-a-brac.
Susan Ryhanen, Soapmaker
Susan began making soap as a hobby in 1997 when she retired from teaching. She now is the sole soapmaker for Saipua, crafting close to 200,000 bars a year. She is also co-founder of Mah Jong Doctors, a teaching tool and forum for Mah Jong enthusiasts.
Deanna Nairns, Studio Manager
Deanna joined Saipua in October of 2010. She holds an MA in Film Theory from Universiteit van Amsterdam, and a Bachelor’s in Film and Media Theory from VA Tech, where she first met Sarah and Eric. She has mastered the skill of organization and happens to be the communicating coordinator for all Saipua events. She’s known to cut a fairly decent rug, and is available for weddings and parties.
Asheley Wilson, Assistant
Asheley was Saipua's first intern, coming back to work full time as a creative assistant in 2011. She specializes in hand-lettering, and detailed ink elements for stationary and broader designs.
Pentti Ryhanen, Soap Engineer
Pentti is a retired auto-body repair man, and the Finnish connection to Saipua. He knows how to build a proper sauna bath and has been known to roll in the snow after having one. He is a great soap cutter, and engineers and builds all soap molds and devices in his woodshop. Sadly, he is a very poor speller, and that is why Saipua is spelled with only one "P."
Joelle Petersen, Designer
Saipua is very fortunate to count Joelle amongst it's roster of invaluable freelance designers. Her talent know no bounds, especially when it comes to baking.