Dear Chris,
Welcome to 'Tea For Two with Melanie Rose,' Chris! It's wonderful to have you join me today. Thank you for sharing this virtual cuppa and your story with me.
Chris, as the founder and driving force behind Leatherdaddy Skin Co., you embody that creative and artisan spirit in the unique space you've carved out in the skincare world.
You describe your company as bold, unapologetic and sensual. Leatherdaddy Skin Co. is redefining skincare with bold products that celebrate confidence, sensuality, and self-expression. Designed for those who live authentically, your lineup of body care essentials and apparel blends luxurious natural ingredients with a kinky edge. Whether you’re exploring new sensations or enhancing your daily ritual, you bring premium quality with a wink of playful rebellion.
That’s a powerful mission statement, and it really resonates. It makes me curious about the person behind the brand.
What was your life like before Leatherdaddy?
Before LeatherDaddy, I spent 15 years waiting tables, like so many artists and creatives trying to make ends meet while holding onto big dreams. I was always creating, always making things with my hands, but never had the time or resources to pursue it full-time. Then the pandemic hit—and like many people, I was forced to sink or swim. So I dove in headfirst.
Starting a business, especially one that’s ‘bold and unapologetic,’ often comes with unique challenges. What were some of the biggest hurdles you faced when launching Leatherdaddy Skin Co., and how did you overcome them?
Launching LeatherDaddy Skin Co. was both liberating and terrifying. I had almost no money, terrible credit, and a deep fear of failing publicly. On top of that, I’m non-binary, queer, kinky—all things that don’t exactly get you fast-tracked in traditional business spaces. I had to learn everything on my own: formulation, design, compliance, marketing, even how to properly pack and ship orders. But the biggest hurdle? Believing I had the right to take up space in this industry. Once I embraced that, there was no turning back.
Welcome to 'Tea For Two with Melanie Rose,' Chris! It's wonderful to have you join me today. Thank you for sharing this virtual cuppa and your story with me.
Chris, as the founder and driving force behind Leatherdaddy Skin Co., you embody that creative and artisan spirit in the unique space you've carved out in the skincare world.
You describe your company as bold, unapologetic and sensual. Leatherdaddy Skin Co. is redefining skincare with bold products that celebrate confidence, sensuality, and self-expression. Designed for those who live authentically, your lineup of body care essentials and apparel blends luxurious natural ingredients with a kinky edge. Whether you’re exploring new sensations or enhancing your daily ritual, you bring premium quality with a wink of playful rebellion.
That’s a powerful mission statement, and it really resonates. It makes me curious about the person behind the brand.
What was your life like before Leatherdaddy?
Before LeatherDaddy, I spent 15 years waiting tables, like so many artists and creatives trying to make ends meet while holding onto big dreams. I was always creating, always making things with my hands, but never had the time or resources to pursue it full-time. Then the pandemic hit—and like many people, I was forced to sink or swim. So I dove in headfirst.
Starting a business, especially one that’s ‘bold and unapologetic,’ often comes with unique challenges. What were some of the biggest hurdles you faced when launching Leatherdaddy Skin Co., and how did you overcome them?
Launching LeatherDaddy Skin Co. was both liberating and terrifying. I had almost no money, terrible credit, and a deep fear of failing publicly. On top of that, I’m non-binary, queer, kinky—all things that don’t exactly get you fast-tracked in traditional business spaces. I had to learn everything on my own: formulation, design, compliance, marketing, even how to properly pack and ship orders. But the biggest hurdle? Believing I had the right to take up space in this industry. Once I embraced that, there was no turning back.
Beyond seeing your products featured on my show (which was fantastic!), what has been one of the most rewarding moments or proudest achievements for you with Leatherdaddy so far?
One of my proudest moments was seeing my products used on How to Build a Sex Room. It was a surreal mix of joy, disbelief, and fierce validation. I can’t thank you enough for that. Aside from that, I’d have to say being nominated for an X-award at the Darklands festival in Antwerp was incredibly rewarding. It was my first time seeing my name at an international kink event. Hearing my name read as a nominee, followed by the roar of applause from thousands of leather-clad kinksters from around the world—it hit me like a wave. In that moment, I felt seen, celebrated, and completely overwhelmed with gratitude. It’s a feeling I’ll carry with me forever.
One of my proudest moments was seeing my products used on How to Build a Sex Room. It was a surreal mix of joy, disbelief, and fierce validation. I can’t thank you enough for that. Aside from that, I’d have to say being nominated for an X-award at the Darklands festival in Antwerp was incredibly rewarding. It was my first time seeing my name at an international kink event. Hearing my name read as a nominee, followed by the roar of applause from thousands of leather-clad kinksters from around the world—it hit me like a wave. In that moment, I felt seen, celebrated, and completely overwhelmed with gratitude. It’s a feeling I’ll carry with me forever.
Photography by Mason Ward Photography
The name ‘Leatherdaddy Skin Co.’ is incredibly distinctive and memorable. What’s the story behind choosing that name?
The name ‘LeatherDaddy Skin Co.’ came from a place of wanting to merge two sides of myself: the sensual and the nurturing, the rebellious and the tender. Leather is about strength and identity, but a “daddy” in the queer world isn’t just dominant—he’s also caring, grounding, and safe. I wanted my brand to be all of that. Plus, it’s memorable. You hear “LeatherDaddy,” and you don’t forget it.
Who do you see as the core Leatherdaddy customer, and how do you connect with your community?
Our core customer is someone who lives authentically and loves to feel sexy in their own skin—whether that’s a queer man exploring kink, a trans femme craving ritual, or a skincare-obsessed ally who just loves the scent. I connect with them through community: social media, queer and BDSM events, DMs, and sometimes even heartfelt emails. I’m not some faceless brand—I’m right here, talking with you, making the stuff, living the life.
The name ‘LeatherDaddy Skin Co.’ came from a place of wanting to merge two sides of myself: the sensual and the nurturing, the rebellious and the tender. Leather is about strength and identity, but a “daddy” in the queer world isn’t just dominant—he’s also caring, grounding, and safe. I wanted my brand to be all of that. Plus, it’s memorable. You hear “LeatherDaddy,” and you don’t forget it.
Who do you see as the core Leatherdaddy customer, and how do you connect with your community?
Our core customer is someone who lives authentically and loves to feel sexy in their own skin—whether that’s a queer man exploring kink, a trans femme craving ritual, or a skincare-obsessed ally who just loves the scent. I connect with them through community: social media, queer and BDSM events, DMs, and sometimes even heartfelt emails. I’m not some faceless brand—I’m right here, talking with you, making the stuff, living the life.
What inspired the plant-based focus, and did personal experience play a role?
Absolutely. I’ve always had sensitive skin and needed products that were clean but effective. I also believe that sensuality and sustainability can—and should—go hand in hand. Nature has given us some of the most powerful ingredients on the planet. Why not use them?
What was it like for you seeing your products used on “How to Build a Sex Room?”
It was wild—in the best way. One moment I’m in my little home studio hand-pouring a scrub, and the next I’m watching it get lovingly placed in a beautiful, kinky space on a hit Netflix show. That moment reminded me that what I’m building is reaching people, affirming pleasure, and helping folks feel confident and cared for in their bodies. That’s the dream. To know that something I made with my own hands was now part of such an affirming, sex-positive, queer-inclusive show, that hit me right in the feels.
Absolutely. I’ve always had sensitive skin and needed products that were clean but effective. I also believe that sensuality and sustainability can—and should—go hand in hand. Nature has given us some of the most powerful ingredients on the planet. Why not use them?
What was it like for you seeing your products used on “How to Build a Sex Room?”
It was wild—in the best way. One moment I’m in my little home studio hand-pouring a scrub, and the next I’m watching it get lovingly placed in a beautiful, kinky space on a hit Netflix show. That moment reminded me that what I’m building is reaching people, affirming pleasure, and helping folks feel confident and cared for in their bodies. That’s the dream. To know that something I made with my own hands was now part of such an affirming, sex-positive, queer-inclusive show, that hit me right in the feels.
Since this blog features creatives and artisans, what piece of advice would you give to someone else who has a passion they want to turn into a business, especially if it’s in a niche market?
You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to be persistent. The world is hungry for authenticity. If you show up with your full self, flaws and all, your people will find you. And your niche? That’s not a limitation—it’s your superpower.
You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to be persistent. The world is hungry for authenticity. If you show up with your full self, flaws and all, your people will find you. And your niche? That’s not a limitation—it’s your superpower.
Photography by Mason Ward Photography
Before we wrap up, Chris, it’s time for the ‘Tea for Two’ tradition! I’ve got three of my favorites brewing.
Since your work involves a deep understanding of scent, botanicals, and blending and of course a highly developed sense of smell and appreciation for natural ingredients.
Which sounds best to you today?
Green Tea (Sencha or Matcha) - A refreshing, slightly grassy, and savory taste. Matcha (prepared traditionally) is richer, more intensely grassy, umami, and vibrant.
Chamomile Tea - Delicate, slightly sweet, apple-like floral notes. Naturally caffeine-free and very relaxing.
Hibiscus Tea - Tart, cranberry-like flavor, intensely fruity, and visually stunning with its deep red hue.
Sugar? Yes or No? And if yes, then how many lumps/spoons?
Milk? Yes Or No?
Today I’m feeling the Hibiscus Tea. Bold, a little tart, and unafraid to stand out — basically, me in a mug.
I’ll take one lump (ouch ), and no milk.
Thank you so much for having me you are truly a fantastic light in this world!
You are very welcome darling. xo
Since your work involves a deep understanding of scent, botanicals, and blending and of course a highly developed sense of smell and appreciation for natural ingredients.
Which sounds best to you today?
Green Tea (Sencha or Matcha) - A refreshing, slightly grassy, and savory taste. Matcha (prepared traditionally) is richer, more intensely grassy, umami, and vibrant.
Chamomile Tea - Delicate, slightly sweet, apple-like floral notes. Naturally caffeine-free and very relaxing.
Hibiscus Tea - Tart, cranberry-like flavor, intensely fruity, and visually stunning with its deep red hue.
Sugar? Yes or No? And if yes, then how many lumps/spoons?
Milk? Yes Or No?
Today I’m feeling the Hibiscus Tea. Bold, a little tart, and unafraid to stand out — basically, me in a mug.
I’ll take one lump (ouch ), and no milk.
Thank you so much for having me you are truly a fantastic light in this world!
You are very welcome darling. xo
Website: Leather Daddy Skin Co
Instagram: @leatherDaddyskinco
Facebook: Leather Daddy Skin Co
Threads: Leather Daddy Skin Co
Instagram: @leatherDaddyskinco
Facebook: Leather Daddy Skin Co
Threads: Leather Daddy Skin Co
What you will need
1/4 to 1/2 cup dried hibiscus petals (also called Roselle or Flor de Jamaica)
4 cups of water
1-2 tablespoons of honey (my preference), agave, or sugar.
Optional: Orange slices, lemon, lime, or even a cinnamon stick to add some flavor.
Instructions
Boil the 4 cups of water to a boil in a pot. Then remove the the pot from the heat and
add in the dried hibiscus petals. Cover and let steep for 10–15 minutes. The longer it steeps, the stronger and tangier the flavor. Strain out the hibiscus petals and discard them. Now stir in your sweetener of choice.
Serve
If you are having your tea hot, then pour into teacups immediately.
If you are opting for the iced version, then allow the tea to cool, then refrigerate. Serve over ice with a slice citrus for a refreshing twist or a sprig of mint!
1/4 to 1/2 cup dried hibiscus petals (also called Roselle or Flor de Jamaica)
4 cups of water
1-2 tablespoons of honey (my preference), agave, or sugar.
Optional: Orange slices, lemon, lime, or even a cinnamon stick to add some flavor.
Instructions
Boil the 4 cups of water to a boil in a pot. Then remove the the pot from the heat and
add in the dried hibiscus petals. Cover and let steep for 10–15 minutes. The longer it steeps, the stronger and tangier the flavor. Strain out the hibiscus petals and discard them. Now stir in your sweetener of choice.
Serve
If you are having your tea hot, then pour into teacups immediately.
If you are opting for the iced version, then allow the tea to cool, then refrigerate. Serve over ice with a slice citrus for a refreshing twist or a sprig of mint!
