Tuesday, August 27, 2013

The Reinvented "Of-The-Month" Box

Well, Hello! Its been quite a summer. Gone too quickly as usual. I'll be catching you up on all the goings-on over the next week or so, but today I wanted to share a great idea for long distance gift giving or especially for the college back to school-er. Its not a new concept to sign a loved one up for a monthly delivery of fruit, meat, etc but there are several companies that have refreshed the concept with some really interesting, socially conscious and healthy incarnations.

Umba Box - Umba provides the recipient with their specially selected handmade gift or gift(s) each month. They concentrate on jewelry, stationary, accessories and bath items with several options for length of subscription. "We are passionate about handmade products and the connections that can be forged between consumers and artists. We shine a light on handmade products by including a story about the artist in each Umba Box. Ultimately, Umba Box is special because of the insight each subscriber gains into the lives of artisans." 

ManPacks - The name speaks for itself. This is a great option for college fellas, a guy just starting out or the too busy to think about it type. You can send ManPacks every 3 months. The packs come in several options including, "Gym Rat" and "The Natural" or "CEO" to suit every guys style. They include socks, undies, shaving items and if you so choose, for the progressive parent/gift-giver...cover your ears children...condoms (said with a whisper). Another convenience is you do not need to know the recipients sizes or address. They will contact them directly to collect the info. 

Hammock Pack - A super idea for someone who really needs a little me time but just won't take the time. Hammock Pack offers a solution that arrives on their doorstep and they never have to leave home. "Whether it’s as simple as a movie night or mementos from that exotic vacation you can’t find the time to take. So relax and let a little “me time” come to you." They offer three affordable subscription options and unique themes each month. What a great mid-term treat or for Mom after a busy summer with the kiddos.

Birch Box - If you have someone who is really into the latest and greatest in beauty products and accessories this is the box for them. They have boxes for men and women. Birch Box sources high-end beauty products from established to up and coming companies. "The women’s subscription includes everything from skincare to makeup, as well as fun non-beauty extras. The men’s subscription delivers top-tier grooming products in addition to lifestyle accessories ranging from hip socks to tech accessories."


Blissmo Box - These boxes are filled with eco-friendly and non-toxic products and offered with a 3 month gift subscription of either their beauty or snack packs. They search out new brands as well as established product names. "We want to use products that are better & safer for our bodies, our families, our communities and our planet, but realized it difficult to know where to find these products or if they were truly safer...We figured others had the same frustration so set out to help health-minded and earth-minded shoppers discover what's better."

The Honest Company - Made famous by its founder, actress Jessica Alba, The Honest Company specializes in safe, earth friendly cleaning and baby self branded products. Their gift packs come in 1, 3 and 6 month options of either the family home essentials or the diaper and wipes option. This is a fabulous idea for a new mom, but the cleaning products would be a creative and useful gift for a new grad with a new apartment and a college loan to pay off. Either option is practical and thoughtful.

There are lots of companies that are hoping on the gift box wagon. Whichever you choose, its a convenient and useful gift that is still personal and creative. The joy in these gifts is the anticipation of knowing you have surprise to look forward to each month. Who doesn't want to stretch out a birthday, holiday or special occasion as long as possible. I'll be checking the stoop for some goodies...Happy Giving! Ta.

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