UPS has started emailing me they’ve left a package at my house and I don’t like it. That email takes away the element of surprise and tiny endorphin surge I get when I arrive home to find a box at my doorstep because it’s fun getting stuff in the mail. That’s one of the reasons subscription boxes have become popular. You can get all kinds of things—beauty samples, socks, hot sauce, wine, pet accessories, teddy bears—each month or quarter by enrolling in various clubs. So, why do you need a club for that? We can all order stuff online and get it delivered. True, but the thrill of a subscription box is not knowing exactly what’s in the box, just that it relates to a theme. You pay a subscription fee and receive a box of goodies on a regular basis. Most are cancelable at any time. Makes a great gift that keeps giving either for yourself, or someone special. Here are a few appealing ones in the home and garden category.
Art
If you have a lot of bare walls you might want to consider Art Crate, a club that delivers curated art to your home each month. How do they know what you like? You take an online quiz to determine your style and are assigned a personal “curator” to choose your monthly selection of art prints from up-and-coming artists. They have plans that fit a variety of spaces and budgets— small, medium, large and extra-large scale art from $29-$79 (plus shipping).
Global Goods
GlobeIn is committed to alleviating poverty by sourcing global goods and delivering them to subscribers in a cheerful green box. The charming hand-made items are produced by individuals and artisans in developing countries. You get one item for $10 a month or a variety for $50 a month. Beautiful handmade baskets, ceramics, wood and leather goods are a few examples of products you might receive. The good feeling from helping someone live a better life is a guarantee.
Garden
Pensacola, Florida based My Garden Box offers monthly or one-time boxes filled with little gardening projects your green thumb will love. Past boxes have included kits for terrariums, herb gardens, rock gardens, butterfly gardens for the patio, succulents and more. $29.50 plus shipping billed monthly and cancelable at any time.
Scandinavian Design
Norsebox is the brainchild of Elise Kubicki, a Midwesterner of Swedish ancestry. She offers chic nordic design goodies delivered to your door once a quarter. For $62 you’ll receive a box each season (spring, summer, fall and winter) with 1-5 items that reflect the naturalism, simplicity and functionality that are at the heart of Scandinavia.
Home Accessories
RenovateCrate is a themed (bistro, bar, kitchen, patio) monthly box with 4-6 products. $37-$39.99 plus shipping. May’s box included stroage containers, chalkboard labels, and silicone kitchen basics.
by Laurie Junker
Photo courtesy of Norsebox
