Dirty Side Down: How Soap Makers Found Love and Business through Widespread Panic

By Jennifer Mack

Music, adventure and the entrepreneurial spirit have been the glue for soap makers and Dope on a Rope founders Jason and Jenny Wilhelm’s relationship. They met at a coffee shop during an Open Mic Night in Naples, Florida in 2007. Jason, a musician, played a set that night and Jenny explains that there was immediate chemistry between them. Once they struck-up a conversation, it only took a few minutes for the topic to turn from introductions to "So what Panic shows should we hit up?" she explains.

Jason and Jenny Wilhelm, Dope on a Rope Soap Founders

Shortly thereafter they attended that Open Mic event again and Jason had his set list ready. Jenny arrived a few minutes after Jason in a stunning Kelly Green sundress which accented her red hair. She listened as he began to play and sing:

Jenny will you walk with me?
Jenny will you marry me?

Thankfully she said, “Yes!”

Their Widespread Panic touring adventures left a taste of the Rocky Mountains and the salty taste of Florida in their mouths. They created Dope on a Rope Soap, an all-natural marijuana leaf-shaped soap (on a hemp rope with hemp oil) and their decision to divide the year making soap in both locations allowed them to quit their day jobs, sell online and at farmer’s markets, and see as many WSP shows as possible.

Jason’s favorite Panic memory is “Postcard” during Mikey's last Oak Mountain show. Jenny’s is the first time Jason said those three words at The Sun Dome in Tampa during “Expiration Day”.

Their daughter, Vida, was born in 2015. She already loves music, dancing and concerts.

Jason, Jenny and Vida Wilhelm — Jason, Jenny and Vida Wilhelm

“We would just like to thank all the good people for their incredible support over the years. Our business has truly thrived with your encouragement. We've been helping people wash off their party gravy for almost 7 years now!” she tells us. NORTHERN LIGHTS Dope on a Rope Soap is their best seller. It's a classic hemp green color with moisturizing hemp seed oil, Eucalyptus & Peppermint essential oils. My favorite is their MAUI WOWIE Dope on a Rope Soap with hemp oil and lavender and orange essential oils. Whether your shower or bath is simply a necessity or whether it is a sanctified moment of relaxation, these two help us to keep our Dirty Side Down in such an enjoyable way. Find their array of great soaps at: dopeonaropesoap.com. Widespread Panic Fans receive 10% off their purchase with coupon code: PANIC10 at checkout.