So I'm new the this website, and I'm new the shaving with a straight razor. I've done it all of two times (w/ my new Dovo Astrale) now and have been using an expensive sample kit I picked up from The Art of Shaving. I know it's not going to last me too long so I was wondering if there other recommended creams/soaps that work well, and won't break my wallet.

I've already seen another post on this subject from a few years ago (http://straightrazorpalace.com/begin...mendation.html) and I'll look into some of those, but I would like to see if some opinions have changed. I also attempted the link in said post (http://straightrazorpalace.com/shavi...reams-reviews/), but it says I don't have permission to view it.

I'm in the city of Chicago if anyone has any shop recommendations.

Thanks in advance.