When it comes to blending science, art, and identity into something truly special, few do it better than Malcolm, the founder of Rainbow Cammo. Based in Pittsford, NY, Malcolm is a scientist, proud gay man, military veteran, and the creative force behind a brand that’s redefining self-care for the LGBTQ+ community and its allies. With a mission to celebrate individuality, give back to queer organizations, and craft high-quality, evocative products, Rainbow Cammo offers more than just beard oils and candles—it’s an experience. In this interview, Malcolm shares the inspiration behind his brand, the challenges he’s faced as an LGBTQ+ entrepreneur, and the joy of connecting with customers who embrace authenticity and self-expression. Get ready to be inspired by his story and his commitment to merging creativity with purpose.
THE QUESTIONNAIRE
Q: Who are you, where are you based, and how has being part of the LGBTQ+ community shaped your journey?
A: My name is Malcolm, and I’m based in Pittsford NY. I’m a scientist by training, proud gay man, and military veteran. My brand Rainbow Cammo merges my love of chemistry with my passion for creativity. My identity plays a significant role in shaping my story as a business owner. It’s about embracing authenticity, resilience, and the art of reinvention. As a queer person, I’ve faced my share of challenges, but those experiences have taught me the value of perseverance and community. Rainbow Cammo reflects that spirit—it’s a celebration of individuality, self-expression, and the power of taking up space unapologetically. My products are handcrafted with care and infused with meaning, combining premium quality with a deep sense of purpose. Through my business, I aim to give back to LGBTQIA+ organizations and amplify queer voices, especially in spaces where representation matters most.
Q: What is the name of your business, and what do you offer?
A: Rainbow Cammo offers a diverse range of artisan-crafted products designed to indulge the senses and elevate self-care routines. Our collection includes handcrafted soaps, luxurious body mists, beard oils, massage oils, and candles, all made with premium, organic ingredients. Each product is thoughtfully created to combine high-quality craftsmanship with unique, evocative (and some pretty kinky) fragrances, such as Leather Harness, Citrus Pine, and my signature “Leather Zaddy” expertly crafted in the leather pride flag colors. Whether it's our "Old Fashioned" bourbon soap with exfoliating orange peel or our upcycled "confetti" soap, sustainability and creativity are at the heart of everything we make.
Q: How would you describe the vibe or style of your offerings?
A: What sets Rainbow Cammo apart is the fusion of science, art, and identity in every product we hand craft. As a scientist and artisan, I’m meticulous about using high-quality, organic ingredients and innovative techniques. The aesthetic of Rainbow Cammo is bold yet refined, playful yet sophisticated. It’s a celebration of individuality, drawing inspiration from queer culture, marine grit, and artistic craftsmanship. Our products balance edgy, evocative fragrances with a sleek, modern design that appeals to customers looking for something both unique and meaningful. In short, Rainbow Cammo isn’t just about self-care—it’s about self-expression.
Q: Who is your typical customer, and what do you love about them?
A: The people who support Rainbow Cammo are bold, open-minded, and unapologetically themselves. They’re the kind of individuals who value quality and craftsmanship but also care deeply about the story behind what they buy. Many of my customers are members of the LGBTQIA+ community or allies who appreciate the authenticity, resilience, and creativity infused in every product. What makes them special to me is their shared commitment to individuality and inclusivity. They see beauty in diversity and are not afraid to stand out. These are the people who light up the room with their energy, who support small businesses because they believe in lifting up others, and who recognize the value of something handmade with intention. Their loyalty and passion fuel my creativity and remind me why I started this journey—to create products that celebrate who we are and give back to the communities that inspire us.
Q: Do you have a personal favorite product or service you offer? If so, what makes it special?
A: One offering that holds a special place in my heart is our "Leather Harness" soap. There’s something deeply personal and empowering about infusing a product with the unmistakable richness of leather—it’s bold, sensual, and a little provocative. For me, it’s more than just a scent; it’s a subtle nod to the playful, edgy side of personal care, blending practicality with self-expression. I love how the leather fragrance taps into a sense of confidence and individuality while adding a touch of kink to an everyday routine. It’s a scent that feels powerful yet intimate, and it resonates with my belief that self-care can—and should—be as unique as the person using it. This product, like the rest of Rainbow Cammo, is a celebration of authenticity and the freedom to embrace who you are, unapologetically.
Q: What has been the most rewarding part of running your business?
A: One of the most fulfilling moments as a business owner was vending at Pride and sponsoring a show for local queer artisans with Queer Handmade Rochester. Being part of these events allowed me to connect with my community in a way that felt deeply authentic and personal. It’s not just about selling products—it’s about showing up as myself, a proud leather-loving soap maker, and seeing how that authenticity resonates with others. There’s something incredibly empowering about knowing that Rainbow Cammo is an extension of who I am. I’m proud to create products that reflect my identity and celebrate individuality, and it means the world to me that my community embraces that. Whether it’s someone smiling as they discover our "Leather Harness" soap being able to give back by supporting local queer artisans, these moments remind me that staying true to myself is the heart of what makes Rainbow Cammo special.
Q: What challenges have you faced as an LGBTQ+ entrepreneur, and how have you overcome them?
A: As a business owner, I’ve faced my share of challenges, but two stand out as especially difficult. One is the hate speech and death threats I’ve encountered on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram. The other is a deeply personal struggle—reconciling my identity as a gay man and a marine veteran. Dealing with online hate can be draining and demoralizing, but I’ve found strength in the community I’ve built. Every message of support, every purchase, and every kind word from customers reminds me why I do this. I’ve also leaned into setting boundaries to protect my mental health and focusing on amplifying the positivity and love within my community instead of letting the negativity overshadow it. Reconciling my identity as both a gay man and a marine was a journey of self-acceptance that took years. For a long time, I felt caught between two worlds, but starting Rainbow Cammo helped me bridge that gap. This business has allowed me to embrace my whole self—melding the discipline and resilience of a marine with the creativity and authenticity of a gay entrepreneur. These experiences taught me that authenticity is powerful, and owning who you are can be the most liberating thing you do.
Q: If you could go back in time to when you started your business, what’s the one thing you’d do differently, knowing what you know now?
A: Looking back on my journey, one lesson I wish I had learned earlier is that it’s okay—and incredibly valuable—to ask for help and to invest time in learning the ins and outs of running a business. When I first started Rainbow Cammo, I poured my passion into creating products but didn’t fully understand the operational and strategic side of things. I hesitated to ask for guidance, thinking I had to figure it all out on my own. Over time, I realized that seeking advice and building a support network doesn’t make you less capable—it makes you stronger. Whether it’s learning better ways to manage finances, streamline production, or market effectively, reaching out for help has been a game-changer. Pairing that knowledge with the authenticity of who I am—a gay marine turned soap maker—has allowed Rainbow Cammo to thrive. If I could go back, I’d remind myself that being a business owner isn’t about doing everything perfectly on your own; it’s about growing, learning, and building something meaningful with the help of others.
Q: What’s a customer success story that stands out to you?
A: One of the most memorable and validating experiences as a business owner is seeing repeat customers actively seek me out at festivals. There’s something deeply rewarding about a familiar face walking up to my booth, excited to restock their favorite products or try something new. It’s a testament to the connection Rainbow Cammo has made with people, and it’s a feeling I never imagined when I first started. Moments like that are incredibly humbling and affirming. I never anticipated achieving this level of brand recognition, and it’s a reminder of how far the business has come and how meaningful these connections are. Knowing that people genuinely value what I create inspires me to keep pushing forward.
Q: What’s the most rewarding thing about working with your customers?
A: What I enjoy most about interacting with my customers is the genuine connection and shared enthusiasm for the products I create. Whether it’s someone discovering a scent they absolutely love or sharing how a product has become a part of their daily routine, those moments of joy and excitement are incredibly fulfilling. My customers also have a way of inspiring me. Their feedback and support drive me to innovate, improve, and stay true to the values that make Rainbow Cammo unique. It’s especially rewarding when customers tell me how much they appreciate the authenticity of the brand and the personal story behind it. Knowing that my work resonates with them and brings a little bit of happiness or confidence into their lives makes everything worthwhile. Their loyalty and encouragement are the foundation of my business. Every returning customer, every recommendation, and every word of encouragement reinforces why I do what I do. My customers aren’t just buying products—they’re supporting a vision and a community, and that means the world to me.
Q: What’s a fun fact about you that not many people know?
A: I'm part of this club that does distance running for beer, and it's a lot more fun than you might think.
Q: If your business had a theme song, what would it be?
A: "I’m Coming Out" by Diana Ross
Q: Where can people find you online (website, Instagram, etc.)?
Thank you, Malcolm!
A huge thank you to Malcolm for sharing his inspiring journey and giving us a behind-the-scenes look at the passion and purpose driving Rainbow Cammo. It’s clear that his dedication to authenticity, creativity, and community is at the heart of everything he creates. If you’re as captivated by Malcolm’s story as we are, be sure to check out Rainbow Cammo’s incredible lineup of handcrafted products—and maybe even snag a bar of that “Leather Harness” soap for yourself!
Do you know an LGBTQ+ owned small business that deserves the spotlight? We’d love to hear from you! Send your nominations to me at christian@hunkytops.store, and let’s keep celebrating and supporting the amazing diversity in our community.
Christian from Hunky Tops
Founder
