We are a small, family-owned business based in Ansonia, Connecticut. Like many family-run ventures, we began at home making soaps in our small kitchen.

As a wet shaving hobbyist, I knew exactly what kind of soaps I liked and set out to create something worthy of consideration. What began as a side project to help supplement our income and support our daughter’s education quickly gained unexpected momentum.

Then COVID hit.

At 57, after losing my job of 17 years, I found myself without work and with few options—nobody was hiring. We made a difficult but clear decision: to go all in on the business. This would be our full-time livelihood.

At the time, I had been developing a new shaving soap base called Kaizen—a Japanese word meaning continuous improvement. Just three weeks after being laid off, we released Kaizen with little more than hope and a prayer. That release changed our lives.

Today, we’ve grown far beyond our kitchen. We operate in the heart of Ansonia, in a dedicated facility that reflects how far we’ve come—and how much farther we plan to go. Our journey is proof that when one door closes, another opens if you’re willing to walk through it.

Beyond shaving products, Ariana & Evans has grown into a serious presence in the niche fragrance market. Our perfumes are more than just scents, they are personal stories, inspired by life experiences and travels around the world. Each fragrance is crafted in-house, reflecting a journey of discovery, culture, and passion.

Leading this creative evolution is my daughter, Thalia Charkalis, whose talent and vision continue to push our fragrance line forward. Together, as a family, we create bold, original compositions that honor our roots while embracing the wider world.

At Ariana & Evans, we don’t just make products, we craft experiences shaped by the American Dream, dedication, and the spirit of exploration.

Thank you for your faith in us, our family business & products.

Thalia, Evelyn & Peter Charkalis