WASHINGTON – Waldorf, Md., resident Ronda Goldman recently competed in American Made — a contest from Martha Stewart to highlight the art of fine craftsmanship and American manufacturing.

Goldman, 40, is the founder and CEO of The Eden Company, an olive oil skin care business she founded in 2000.

“In college, I used nothing but olive oil on my skin and my hair and I loved the results,” says Goldman, who began making olive oil soaps and moisturizers with locally-sourced products due to the positive results.

The contest was open to artisans in five different categories, including garden, food, technology, style and design.

While Goldman did not win the contest, she says it was a “fantastic adventure,” and that it provided her business with more exposure.

“I have wonderful opportunities that are opening up to expand the brand,” says Goldman, who adds she hopes to take the brand nationally and internationally. “I’m excited that the contest was able to give me that kind of exposure that I will be able to take other steps now.”

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