Wet Shaving and Botanical Specialties

2012-01-25T15:19:00.000-08:00

FAQ about shaving with a double edge and blade angle. Curious? Check out the article and photos http://www.shaveinfo.com/shaving-information/blade-angle.htm

2011-11-26T17:00:00.000-08:00

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

UPDATES and SPECIALS

Please check out our new section "Deal of the Day".

Here you will find products on special for yourself or to give as gifts.

Also take a look at the "What's New" section to stay up to date with new arrivals.

Back in Stock:
Gold Dachs (aka "Rivivage") European classic shaving soap from Germany

2011-09-21T17:28:00.000-07:00

Whisker Pattern

When we talk to men about getting a more comfortable shave many have never considered their whisker pattern into the equation. Have you? What's your pattern?

Check out our article about how the direction of growth, aka grain, can affect your shave... Shaving - Whisker Pattern

2011-08-25T11:51:00.000-07:00

Trumpers Shaving Products Update:

Correspondence today from Geo. F. Trumper in England suggests it will still be a while before we can update our "out of stock" for Limes Shaving Cream in the screw top tub and the tube. This is due to sourcing issues at this time for raw materials of the following products:

~ Limes Shaving Cream (Screw Thread Bowl and Tube)
~ Sandalwood Shaving Soap (Wooden Bowl and Refill)
~ Coconut Shaving Soap (Wooden Bowl and Refill)

Trumpers doesn't expect these products to be available again until December... They suggest customers look at the GFT fragrance as an alternative to the Extract of Limes as it fits firmly into the subtle tangy citrus & woody group.

While we are currently out of the Limes Shaving Cream, Em's Place Inc. is fully stocked with the Wooden Bowl and Refill soap items.

Check out our current Trumper Products

2011-07-28T19:28:00.001-07:00

This week Merkur-DOVO representative, Ms. Rothstein from Solingen, Germany, visited us on her annual trip to the US.

As always, we had a good time visiting and here are some updates:

Straight razors - factory edge versus professionally honed edge: Customers shopping around for DOVO straight razors may notice some web sites offer what they call "professionally honed" razors either in addition to, or instead of, the DOVO factory edge. Because of this, DOVO is making it clear to merchants/vendors, and hence to the public, that any straight razors that are honed by someone that is not authorized by them voids the warranty. Therefore, a customer needs to be sure the company they purchase a professionally honed straight razor from is willing and able to accept the warranty responsibilities.

DOVO states that their razors are "shave ready" from the factory. This of course does not preclude the need for stropping before use. The use and care of a straight razor is an art as much as it is a function needing education and skills for use. While there is an initial investment of time and funds to get started, straight razors save money on blade replacement costs, can last generations when properly cared for and may give some of the closest shaves possible.

Timeline for products: The good news for merchants is the production time for DOVO straight razors has decreased from 6-9 months to 3-5 months. They now have more skilled workers that have moved up the apprenticeship ranks and have increased the number of grinders.

In regard to Merkur double edge razors and related products the shipping time to merchants has increased to about a three month backlog. According to Ms. Rothstein, worldwide demand has been growing with the US and Canada as the largest markets.

Gold plated items: Going forward the only remaining Merkur razors that will be available in gold plating are the 34G (heavy duty regular length handle) and the Futur double edge razors. Consistency issues in color tone variations due to product quantity for gold plating is part of the consideration for this decision. Therefore, once the stock of the other gold models are gone there will be no replacements.

Other discontinued products: In addition to the gold items talked about above, the Merkur chrome double edge travel razor will now only come in the leather pouch - the plastic one will no longer be available. The DOVO Renaissance straight razor blade will now come with a Spanish Oak handle. The DOVO red and black Bismarck straight blade will now come with an Ebony Wood handle with the Solingen logo laser etched with an antique gold wash.

Packaging: Merkur is going to be updating their packaging for safety razors based on an orange and blue-gray color scheme. This change will happen gradually and not to every item at once.... so you will start to notice those changes later in the year and into next.

Ms. Rothstein returned to Germany today. The factory is on holiday until August 15th.

2011-06-14T10:24:00.000-07:00

News Updates and Summer Greetings:-)

A) It's Official! The US Patent and Trademark Office has registered our logo... We decided to use a stylized "M" with the word Em's for several reasons: Because a) We have been selling online since 1997, and "Em's" brand/font is recognized as being associated with the Em's Place, Inc. brand of quality and naturally based wet shaving products, b) When addressing "Em" personally, it sounds like the letter "M", and c) Since the business specializes in Men's wet shaving products the letter further goes to the "M"ale body care segment...

B) Check out the social networking area of our web site in the upper right corner http://www.shaveplace.com/. We have added a Google +1 button viewable in most web browsers. Please take a moment to share our site with your friends and also give us a Google +1 click. What is +1 - Google says, The +1 button is shorthand for "this is pretty cool" or "you should check this out" and you can read more about it here http://www.google.com/+1/button/.

C) We have added a Master Polls page where all of the currently running polls are compiled on one page http://www.shaveinfo.com/polls.htm. When visiting our web site please take a moment to answer a poll when you see one or have not already done so. They are random, so will change when the page is refreshed or you travel to another page on the site that has a poll.

Have a great summer!

2011-04-25T17:35:00.000-07:00

YEAH, spring and better weather is upon us...

A few new things to talk about. Please take a look at our newest Wet Shaving Essential Concepts video narrated by Mark Herro (aka @mantic59). We have also made some updates to www.shaveplace.com, especially in the Sale, What's New and http://www.shaveplace.com/Brush-and-Razor-Stands-and-Holders-s/23.htm categories - check it out.

Also, ShaveInfo now has a new look on the home page... and we have a poll asking "What is your favorite Em's scent' on several of our web properties so if you use our products please talk a moment to respond:-)

2011-02-01T21:20:00.000-08:00

Hope everyone is having a great start to the new year:-) We
are getting organized after the holidays and have added a "What's New"
category on ShavePlace, check it out!

Also, take a look at our latest Video called "Inferior
Shaves?" Watch on ShaveInfo or YouTube ...

2010-12-22T20:18:00.000-08:00

HAPPY HOLIDAYS to you and yours!

Thank you to all of our customers and suppliers. 2011 looks to be even better:-) Oh, and look for new items in the coming year...

2010-10-25T07:51:00.000-07:00

NEW items added to the web site:

_______________________________

From Merkur for 2010 - Just in:

Heavy duty satin stainless steel long handle safety razor. Turning knob at base of handle releases the screw rod top for blade replacement. 4" inch total razor length. Weight is approx. 5.2 ounces making this the heaviest model Merkur makes. This is a two part razor modeled after their barber pole design with a heavy weight stainless steel satin body finish.

_______________________________

Also by request we now have:

Double edge razor blade sampler pack. We have brought together our most popular DE blades for you to sample. Men have different styles of razors, different beard types and different techniques and not all blades perform the same in various circumstances. The answer: try a variety to see what works best for you.

2010-10-11T11:08:00.000-07:00

As you may recall from an earlier post: this summer when I met with the Merkur/DOVO representative, Ms. Rothstein, she let me know that the Science Channel http://science.discovery.com/ and TV program "How It's Made" http://science.discovery.com/tv/how-its-made/ would be airing a segment on the making of straight razors. The segment aired this past Friday, October 8, 2010.

Since DOVO is located in Germany they couldn't see this segment so I sent a link to Ms. Rothstein. She enjoyed seeing how the clip turned out and said it's her hands in the final scene putting the straight razor into the metal box and cardboard sleeve and chuckled that her "hands are famous now:-) I laughed too because I knew it was her hands in that part of the video - having met her many times over the years...

In case you missed the making of DOVO straight razors clip check here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ACJrAI3SxM

2010-10-07T10:41:00.000-07:00

Merkur/DOVO Updates:

Per Merkur/DOVO: The DOVO straight razor segment on the "How It's Made" TV show will air on The Science Channel Friday, Oct. 8, 2010 at 9pm EST. Check it out http://science.discovery.com/tv-schedules/weekly.html for the channel in your area.

On another note: Merkur also let us know that "due to technical problems with the machines at our gold platers, we will not have any gold plated MERKUR razors this year. Don't know yet when it will be fixed." Therefore, if you have been thinking about a gold plated Merkur double edge safety razor you may want to take action...

2010-09-28T11:30:00.000-07:00

The Vicious Circle

Any of you not shave daily because you hate it and it irritates your skin? Or do you have sensitive skin? Today we are highlighting one of our articles called "The Vicious Circle". Read about why we think only shaving every few days can be the cause of shaving problems http://www.shaveinfo.com/Shave_info/vicious_circle.htm

If you haven't seen it yet why not check it out now!

2010-09-10T08:04:00.000-07:00

ALERT and call to action! Why H.R.5786 - "Safe Cosmetics Act of 2010" may NOT be safe:

If you have sensitive skin and/or use (or interested in using) naturally based niche body care and shaving products please take time to read this post and help....

There is a bill that has been introduced into the House of Representatives called the "Safe Cosmetics Act of 2010" - but it is anything but safe! This legislation is not necessary and we already have the FDA. Do we really need more government bureaucracy and red tape at the expense of consumer choice and small business?

Here is a good article that explains what is going on http://personalcaretruth.com/2010/08/5-ways-the-%e2%80%9csafe-cosmetics-act%e2%80%9d-will-harm-consumers/ and another good resource http://naturalperfumersguild.blogspot.com/

Our company has been in business since 1997 and specializing in naturally based body care and wet shaving products. If the law makers get their way and this bill passes our customers my be forced to purchase mass-market heavily synthetic products without natural aroma and loaded with preservatives and synthetic colorants. For people like me and many of our customers who are sensitive to synthetically derived and man-made chemicals that would be devastating and bad for my/our health and skin!

In summary, it will cause many small business and naturally based body care manufactures to shut their doors. In addition, many natural ingredients could be banned. Why, well there are many opinions but mine is A) if a large mega-company can't control the market and the ingredient/s used in products then nobody should be allowed to and B) see "A".

I signed the online petition here http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/oppose-hr-5786-safe-cosmetics-act-of-2010 and included this personal comment

"As a small retail business specializing in naturally based men's care my customers appreciate products that are not mass-produced and provide consumer choice. Driving the small business out of the space will only be a win for the mega producers and make less options available to the consumer and drive many small business "out of business". What happened to the day when small business was the golden child and not the self serving mega-corps who want to dominate everything. PLEASE, Don't squash the many from the rhetoric of the few with hidden agendas by enacting legislation that strangles and prices out the small business and their happy consumers who want alternatives."

Please help me by Opposing HR 5786. You can also write your congress http://www.congressmerge.com/onlinedb/ or your senator http://www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm

But MOST IMPORTANT: Please sign the online petition http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/oppose-hr-5786-safe-cosmetics-act-of-2010

It only takes a minute. THANKS! Em

2010-09-07T20:43:00.000-07:00

New Category Added

We have added a "For Women" category that provides traditional wet shaving information for women.

http://www.shaveplace.com/Wet-Shaving-for-Women-s/170.htm

2010-08-24T15:46:00.000-07:00

Tidbit from Merkur/DOVO in Solingen, Germany:

"How It's Made", the TV show on the Science Channel http://science.discovery.com/tv/how-its-made/ filmed DOVO straight razor production prior to Merkur/DOVO representative Ms. Rothstein's summer visit to the US. In addition, they put together a narrative with with her assistance that will be a part of the 4 1/2 minute segment. It's supposed to air in the September/October time frame.

We will let you about the air date as soon as it is scheduled. I am looking forward to seeing it - should be interesting. The Science Channel in my area is on Direct TV Channel 284. Check your listings to see if you get this channel. Shop for DOVO straight razors.

2010-07-12T16:20:00.000-07:00

Did You Know?

Summer is upon us and many brands of shaving cream will start turning to liquid once temperatures approach 95 degrees or higher. This doesn’t affect the performance, only the texture and consistency. Therefore, if you notice this has happened to your cream simply place in the refrigerator or cool location overnight. However, it may never return to its pre-heated state - which is normal under these circumstances. Use and enjoy because the lather is just as good either way.

Therefore, if you live in a hot climate or shaving cream has traveled through heat and it arrives liquefied you will know why. Side comment: the Em’s brand of shaving cream is more of a liquid to start and should just be shaken before using.

2010-07-03T14:51:00.000-07:00

Em’s Resources and Web Sites Explained

Em’s Place, Inc. has three main web sites to serve our customers in the wet shaving community.

1 ) www.shaveinfo.com is our FAQ/Knowledge Base site for shaving and body care information and videos. We also have a YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/user/shaveinfo with several videos that are also included on shaveinfo.com

In addition, we now have a twitter account at http://twitter.com/shaveplace to keep up with what’s happening.

2) www.shaveplace.com is our new shopping site. The emsplace.com site currently being used by most of our existing customers will eventually merge into shaveplace.com. Changing technology has prompted this new site which provides more of the features our customers deserve.

Due to major changes in the database structure we will not be able to bring over existing customer accounts so please assign yourself a password the first time you shop on this site so you can enjoy all the features available - including the ability to track an order from your account. For first time checkout on this site select "proceed to checkout" (bypass "returning customers") and assign yourself a password to initiate the account features.

3) www.emsplace.com is our existing web site and has been for many years and will remain in place.

Conclusion: We hope you will find the new site easier to navigate, enjoy the more streamlined look and appreciate the expanded customer features. Please be sure to bookmark any of these sites that may be of interest and we look forward to serving you for many years to come. Thank you for your business! Em

2010-06-17T21:06:00.000-07:00

Sneak peek: Our new web site at www.shaveplace.com

Since the last post we have been hard at work programming a new web site domain. With technology moving ever faster we had to look at different options. During the transition we will be running both www.emsplace.com and www.shaveplace.com. New products will be posted only to the new domain www.shaveplace.com. Please check out our new site and get use to its feel and function. If you notice any glitches please email info@shaveplace.com

Also visit our Information site at www.shaveinfo.com

2009-10-14T20:25:00.000-07:00

Hi All, it's been awhile (well there's an understatement:-)

A lot has happened since my last post over a year ago, wow! The biggest change is location. Our main operations are now located on the central Oregon coast about an hour from our other location. We now have a larger facility to take care of customer orders and more room to grow. A major move always takes time, and getting use to finding where things are located can be a little disorienting... The other major change was incorporating the business on advice from our accountant. That too meant some restructuring and reorganizing.

Now it's time to get back on track updating the web site and looking at new ideas. You may have noticed a number of out of stock items by the end of this summer. We are starting to receive the holiday shipments so be sure to check for items that are now, or will be soon, back in stock.

Hard to believe we have been serving the wet shaving community for over a decade - actually since 1997. Thank you to all of our regular and new customers for your business.

2008-06-05T11:50:00.000-07:00

Change of Ownership for the Simpsons Brand of Brushes

Em's Place has confirmed with Progress Shaving Brush (Vulfix) Ltd that the sale of Simpsons has been completed and according to Simpsons the exchange took place on May 30th.

We understand that Vulfix intends to keep the Simpsons line of brushes "as is" and all weights of hair and other specifications will remain the same. Production is expected to start next week. They will be supporting Simpsons brushes both pre and post sale.

Both the quality value and volume line of Vulfix brushes and the smaller high end niche line of Simpsons brushes will be offered and should provide a selection of brushes to suit all price ranges and tastes.

Em's Place is an existing merchant doing business with Vulfix and looks forward to also receiving the Simpsons line through them. Vulfix is an excellent company to communicate with and the production time has always been reasonable. We think this is good news, and hope our customers will too...

Vulfix is located on the Isle of Man in the UK, and our first new batch of Simpsons brushes should arrive in the next several weeks. We wish Vulfix much success with this new addition to their product line.

2008-05-02T21:19:00.000-07:00

New Information Page

We have posted a new informational page with talking avatar on our companion site shaveinfo.com called "The Vicious Circle".

Do you wait for several days or longer to shave because it is so irritating, or you hate it so much, that it becomes a daunting task?

Our philosophy is that when you don't shave daily, that could actually be one of the reasons for such an awful and irritating experience.

Read more...

2008-05-02T18:39:00.000-07:00

Back in Stock

We have received a new shipment of Simpsons brushes and have taken the out of stock notices off many models that have not been available. There are still a few models out of stock that should arrive in the coming weeks.

The Merkur HD and Long Handle HD will also be coming back in stock.

2008-04-07T22:25:00.000-07:00

Trumper Products from England

We have updated our Trumpers section with several new Trumper products. Sandalwood Skin Food, Wild Fern Cologne and Sandalwood Aftershave.

2008-04-03T21:19:00.000-07:00

Updates

1) You may know that Simpsons was out of production for a while due to employee illnesses. Production has now started again and orders will slowly start to ship in the coming weeks. Therefore we hope to have out of stock items available soon...

2) Out of stock Dovo straight razors can take six to nine months to come back in stock - sometimes sooner but not anticipated. Straight razors are made to order by skilled craftsman so think ahead if you are interested in a straight razor purchase - because once something goes out of stock it can be a while before more become available.

3) The Merkur HD (heavy duty) regular handle razor is expected to be available again in several weeks. This is one of the most popular styles for the Merkur double edge model fixed head razors.

4) Proraso Red (the Wheat Germ formula) has been discontinued by the manufacturer and we have now sold out of our stock for that item. This is why it is no longer available on the web site.

5) We are now stocking the Gold Dachs hard shaving rounds (aka Rivivage). This is a European shaving soap from Germany that has a heady clean scent. Available in single puck, two puck box or aluminum screw thread bowl with soap.

Also, be sure to check out our companion site for videos and additional wet shaving information at www.shaveinfo.com.

2008-01-11T08:24:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year and Thank You!

Em's Place wants to thank all of our customers who have helped our company to grow and become your source for wet shaving products over our eleven years in business.

Look for new products and some phasing out of slow moving items in the coming months. For example, we just found out yesterday that Proraso is no longer producing their "wheat germ, aka red tube) shaving cream, so stock up now.

We wish you and yours a happy and prosperous new year. Your business is appreciated, Em

2007-11-11T22:19:00.000-08:00

New Products and Update

1) Now back in stock is the Omega turned resin syntetico handle brush. In addition, two new styles are now available. Syntetico brushes are vegan friendly badger-like synthetic fibers and the result of years in development with innovative technology. Resistance, elasticity and softness with tapered tips make these shaving brushes a great alternative for making lather.

2) By popular demand, we are now stocking the Simpsons Emperor E2 super badger brush. All the Simpsons models we carry are in stock and ready for the holidays. Shop early while supplies are available...

2007-10-20T21:41:00.000-07:00

Updates to Web Site

We have added some new items to the double edge portion of the general razors page as well as on the mugs and bowls page. Look for the "new" tag for what has been added...

2007-10-04T20:12:00.000-07:00

New Model Parker Double Edge Razor Added and Some Holiday Comments

Parker Razor: We have added the Titan (Gun Metal) R22 model of the Parker brand twist to open razor. Previously this model was lighter at 1.89 ounces, however it has been updated and is now heftier - weighing in at 2.49 ounces. Another distinctive finish and pattern for the Parker silo/butterfly blade loading double edge line of razors.

Holiday Comments: You may have noticed that stores seem to be gearing up for the holiday selling season earlier than ever this year. I am not sure if this has anything to do with why our business is picking up more than average for this period, however, if this is an indication of things to come it may be best to plan ahead, or order early. This will assure that something you may want for yourself or to give as a gift is available and in stock.

The most popular selling men's wet shaving gift items are lathering soaps and creams, shaving brushes, razors, colognes and gift sets...

2007-09-25T09:14:00.000-07:00

Back in Stock

The Simpsons Chubby 1 Super and Tulip 2 Super are now back in stock.

2007-09-02T21:19:00.000-07:00

Restructured Premium Brush Pages and Announcement

Restructure: Due to our diversity of shaving brush handle materials in the fine taper and silver tip grade bristles we have divided that section into two pages based on handle material. Page 1 includes synthetic and metal handles and page 2 contains wood and natural material handles. Hopefully this will make it easier to navigate to your preferred handle material.

We strive to be a niche within a niche market by providing items and handle materials not found everywhere else.

Announcement: We will be closed for shipping from Sept 8th through the 16th for family vacation. Customers can place orders on the web site during that time, however orders will not ship until the week of the Sept. 17th. Thank you for your business and understanding.

2007-08-17T21:29:00.000-07:00

New Video Added to Shave Info...

We have added a new video to our informational site that talks about, and demonstrates, the three main ways to create lather when using a shaving cream.

2007-08-12T22:44:00.000-07:00

New Informational Videos Posted

We have posted two new informational video subjects on our companion site at shaveinfo.com

1) How to clean a shaving brush using vinegar or borax is a very frequently asked question and we hope this narrative and cleaning demonstration will be helpful to those interested in keeping their brush in top shape.

2) This second subject deals with using essential oil to custom fragrance unscented shaving cream or soap. This is a way to enjoy aromas that are not otherwise available for those products and give you control over choosing additional scent options.

2007-08-03T18:09:00.001-07:00

New - Omega Brand Sintetico Brush Now In Stock

Vegan friendly badger-like fibers are the result of years in development and innovative technology. Resistance, elasticity and softness with tapered tips make this synthetic shaving brush the best and most effective alternative for making lather.

2007-07-25T19:59:00.000-07:00

Visit from Merkur/DOVO Representative

Frau Rothstein made her annual trip from Solingen, Germany to meet with merchants that specialize in selling their products. We had a productive and informative meeting to discuss business on Monday (7/23). She indicated double edge razor sales remain steady, and demand for straight razors is on backlog. From the time a merchant places a straight razor order it can take six to nine months until ready to ship from the DOVO factory. The biggest challenge they face to keep up with demand is the availability of component parts. Merkur/DOVO serves over 80 countries around the world.

Double edge and straight razors are still assembled by hand. One of the frequently asked questions Em's Place receives in regard to DOVO straight razors is "are they shave ready" when purchased? The response from the representative was: "Straight razors leaving our company are always ready for the shave. They are honed, stropped and pass the so called ‘Hair Test’ giving evidence of ultimate cutting. Then all razors are carefully wrapped, boxed and sealed.

There is a misconception that shave ready means you don't need to strop before use, and it is important to know that any straight razor should be stropped before each and every shave which is a normal part of the process. Therefore, in addition to the straight razor a user also needs a strop.
We have to guarantee for our workmanship and when you sell originally boxed and sealed DOVO razors you and your customer can be sure that they are ready for the daily strop and shave."

You can find more information about Merkur/DOVO on our web site by visiting double edge razor information, double edge products and straight razor products. Frau Rothstein will be returning to Germany on Saturday and we enjoyed our annual visit.

2007-07-20T20:42:00.000-07:00

New and Expanded Items

Now in stock the book Leisureguy's Guide to Gourmet Shaving by Michael Ham. This is a guide for those thinking about using, or new, to a double edge razor. Contains product and how to information that will help you take the daily chore of shaving to an enjoyable experience. Includes resources to help you get started. As a bonus: this book includes an inscription hand written by Michael.

Proraso line expanded to now include the shaving cream in red tube and the pre-post in glass jar. Proraso products are from Italy. Well known for over 50 years and number one in Italian barber shops. The regular green tube is a lathering shave cream that contains eucalyptus oil and menthol for a light, upbeat experience. The red tube is a lathering shave cream and has less menthol than the regular formula and also contains wheat germ oil for sensitive skin. The pre-post shave cream is a non-lathering product applied just before lathering to help soften and condition the whiskers for shaving or after the shave as a moisturizing toner. Shaving creams come in a 5 oz. tube (150 ml). Pre-post cream comes in a 3.6 oz. (100 ml) glass jar.

2007-07-12T20:57:00.000-07:00

New Butterfly Double Edge Razors

We have three new styles of the Parker butterfly/silo opening head double edge razors. And if you need double edge razor blades check out this razor blade section.

2007-06-22T19:10:00.000-07:00

Close-Out Specials

Sale for a limited time on select botanical soaps and creams as we make room for new items...

2007-06-08T18:44:00.000-07:00

New Arrivals...

The new Merkur 12C Heavy Duty Long Handle Toothed Razor is now available. Heavy Duty Long Handle model chrome safety razor is hand crafted in Germany. Handle design is based on an American barber pole. Same two part style as the regular heavy duty model but with a longer handle and stylish design. Turning knob at base of handle releases the screw rod top for blade replacement. Our item #merk-hdl is for this handle style and you can select either the straight head or the toothed model now available.

Further, we now stock the Speick Shaving Soap Stick in addition to the shaving cream in tube. Speick shaving cream or shaving stick is refreshing and stimulating. Formulated for making lather with a shaving brush. Has a mild medicinal scent with a slight earthy-spice undertone and contains the precious essential extract of the Speick plant (Alpine Valerian, Valeriana celtica). Imported from Germany. Comes in a 2 1/2 oz. shaving cream tube or a 1 3/4 oz. shaving soap stick.

2007-06-01T21:13:00.000-07:00

Back in Stock

Geo. F. Trumper Sandalwood Cologne in 50 ml. atomizer bottle is back in stock.

On the Fixed Head Razor page - The popular nickel finish slim line solid metal razor with medium-heavy weight handle is now available again. Item #rzt-nsl

2007-05-25T23:29:00.000-07:00

New Product Page and Other Updates

We have added a 3-piece sets page 2 selection. This page offers several razor head options and handle materials.

In addition, the On-Line Catalog page has been stream-lined and updated. Further, look for more new items or adjustments throughout the year.

2007-05-15T21:43:00.000-07:00

Now In Stock

The New Merkur Long Handle Heavy Duty razor (long handle HD, 38C model) is now available. This impressive razor is four inches in total razor length and weighs 3.95 ounces. If you are looking for an HD model double edge with longer handle and a heft almost on par with the Futur and Vision razors this model is for you...

2007-05-09T22:35:00.000-07:00

New Products

My Nik is Sealed for spot application to stop bleeding caused by razor cuts or scratches. It works quickly and efficiently and comes in roll-on applicator. Mentioned in Leisureguy's Guide to Gourmet Shaving.

Also from My Nik is Sealed comes the convenient cover-up called My Spots are Concealed.

2007-05-05T20:53:00.000-07:00

Updates to the Merkur Razor Products and Information Pages

We are gearing up for the release of the new Merkur Heavy Duty Long Handle Razor (Long Handle HD). We have added it to the web site as a back order item and expect it to arrive the week of May 15th barring any US custom delays. The handle design is based on an American barber pole. Same two part style as the regular heavy duty model but with a longer handle and stylish design. Turning knob at base of handle releases the screw rod top for blade replacement. The traditional alternative to other razor styles. Hand crafted in Germany.

In addition, we have updated and added additional information to the "Double Edge and General Razor Information" page that may be of interest.

2007-04-21T21:24:00.000-07:00

Five Blade Razors Available

A variety of Gillette® Fusion™ head razors in designer style handles for yourself or to give as a gift. Also be sure to check back for new handle styles over the coming months...

2007-04-17T09:08:00.000-07:00

Web Site Operational

Thank you for your patience while we preformed some web site maintenance. The site is back online and fully functional.

2007-04-15T18:24:00.000-07:00

Web Site Issues/Updating

The web site is not fully functional at this time and may be experiencing problems for another 24 hours more or less. We are working on the problem and sorry about this inconvenience. The informational pages are working fine. It is the shopping and check out pages that are being worked on. Therefore you may not be able to complete an order.

I will post an update as soon as everything is taken care of. Your business is appreciated!

2007-04-04T21:31:00.000-07:00

New Razor Pouch

Zippered, soft leather razor pouch with interior leather lining. Holds the Merkur Vision double edge razor and other razors up to 6" length. Razor heads can be inserted in either end. However, for double edge razors when including a pack of blades it is best to insert the head first and then place the pack of blades next to the handle near the zippered end.

2007-03-20T19:17:00.000-07:00

Product Updates

The Merkur brand Gold Slant Bar double edge razor is back in stock.

By popular demand we now carry the Simpsons brand Tulip (T2) Super badger model shaving brush in addition to the T3 and T4.

2007-03-12T19:41:00.000-07:00

New Products

Toiletries: We now stock the Geo. F. Trumper hard shaving soaps in the wooden bowl and as a refill. In addition, the newly launched GFT scented shaving cream in tub and tube is now available.

Razors: We have a selection of fixed head (twin blade) razors available. After the double edge, and before the pivoting or swing arm models, there was the fixed head razor. Blades are still available for this style and reasonable in price. This is an alternative for those wanting a simple, earlier style razor alternative.

2007-03-07T20:00:00.000-08:00

New Item

We now stock two models of the Omega brand "Syntex" synthetic shaving brush. An option for those looking for an alternative to natural hair products.

2007-03-07T18:33:00.000-08:00

Back in Stock

Our popular Woodstock botanical soap is now back in stock. Gourmet botanical soaps are made by the cold pour process that doesn’t use high temperatures that can harm natural goodness. In addition, they retain natural glycerin that is generally extracted from mass-market soaps.

2007-03-01T22:36:00.000-08:00

Straight Razor Pages Added...

We have added our straight razor product and informational pages. Straight razors are an alternative when you want the ultimate in closeness. This style of shaving is not for the novice, and takes extra care, preparation and time. The advantage is a closeness of shave not typically experienced from other razors, no blade replacement costs, experiencing something different and the enjoyment of the process. When properly cared for a straight razor can last for generations.

2007-02-22T18:43:00.000-08:00

PayPal Payments Now Accepted

We now accept PayPal as a method of payment. PayPal orders can be placed online, phoned or mailed. When placing an order online simply select the PayPal/phone/mail method of payment at check out and complete the order without having to enter credit card information. Instructions for submitting funds when not paid by a credit card online are provided upon order completion.

2007-02-18T16:46:00.000-08:00

Fantasy Fusion

The Fantasy Fusion razor is now back in stock. Also, stay tuned for new additions to the web site coming in the next few months.

2007-02-17T20:59:00.000-08:00

New Product Addition and Update

New: In addition to the shaving cream in tube we are now offering Tabac soap in the ceramic container or as a refill.

Back in stock: Musgo Real shaving cream in tube.

2007-02-11T20:30:00.000-08:00

New Simpson Brush Shipment has Arrived

Prior out of stock Simpsons brand brushes are now available. Our new shipment has arrived and all the models we stock are currently available.

2007-01-26T11:17:00.000-08:00

Shipping Schedule & Closure Notice

We will be closed for inventory and family vacation until Feb. 5th. Shipping will resume after that time. If your order is for Valentine's Day, we will be sure it arrives to you in time - please note "for Valentine's" in the special instructions box at check out when placing your order during this time. Your understanding is appreciated and thank you for your business, Em

2007-01-19T20:22:00.000-08:00

Sold Out of Merkur Gold Slants

We are now sold out of the Merkur gold slant bar model double edger razor. This is due to a rumor that hit the internet which was unknown to us when the run on these razors started. The rumor suggested that the gold slant model may no longer be available, and also suggested that other Merkur gold items may be discontinued in the future.

We contacted Merkur to find out first hand what the story is with the slants, and here is the response [...we don't have the 37G (gold) on stock presently, however, in a few weeks they will be available again. They are awaiting the gold-plating, and although we need to have enough quantity to make the putting together of the gold bath affordable, they will be available again.]

Often production runs have delays, which is a normal part of this niche market. We will be ordering more when available, and therefore expect to have stock for this item in about four to six weeks. In addition, the other gold Merkur items we carry are expected to be continued and available for the foreseeable future subject to production delays already talked about.

2007-01-16T22:35:00.000-08:00

Shipping Updates

Two things are currently affecting order shipments:

1) The weather and forecast for the coast mountains and the I-5 corridor (Salem to Portland, OR) is calling for snow flurries, freezing rain and black ice. Normal traffic has come to a halt and therefore order shipments can be delayed beyond our control.

2) Volume of business from our 10-Year Anniversary special.

Your patience and business are appreciated!

2007-01-11T19:03:00.000-08:00

Security Seal Added to Site

To increase customer confidence, the Authorize.Net Verified Merchant Seal has been added to several key web pages including the check out page. Click here to verify in real time.

This seal increases a customer's trust that their credit card transaction is being processed securely by one of the most trusted names in the payments industry. Protecting our customer's security and privacy is a major concern.

2007-01-11T13:32:00.000-08:00

Reminders for Monday, Jan 15

There will be no regular USPS shipping or delivery due to postal closure for Martin Luther King Jr's Birthday.

In addition, it is the last day of our 10-year anniversary special.

2007-01-10T21:21:00.000-08:00

Low Inventory Notice

One left in stock for these Simpsons models:
Persian Jar (PJ2) Super
Emperor 3 (E3) Super
Duke 3 (D3) Best
Major Super

Check web page http://www.emsplace.com/shaving/simpsons_shaving_brushes.aspx for "Out of Stock" notations when sold out. New shipment expected in 4 to 6 weeks.

Em's 10-Year Anniversary and New Blog

2007-01-10T20:22:00.000-08:00

We are celebrating our ten year anniversary and have a discount running for part of the month http://www.emsplace.com/10-year_anniversary.htm. In addition, we have launched a What's New page on the web site at http://www.emsplace.com/news.aspx. That page is for major highlights or web page and product category additions.

This blog is dynamic and will be and used for more frequent updates that are not intended to be posted to the "What's New" page. For example, low inventory for popular items, new shipments to replenish out of stock items, shipment updates or general delay notices, product tips or usage ideas and information or other points that may be of interest - just to name a few...

We hope you will bookmark this blog and check-in as time allows if you are interested in more detailed news and information about our business and the industry.