Since launching the Hug Box in 2013, one of the main missions was to find local artisans whose products are natural, high quality, and made with intention. Based in Georgia, I spent countless hours at local markets, talking with makers about their ingredients, their passion, and how they present their brand and inviting them to be a partner with the Hug Box. Early on, finding artisans and their unique products who aligned with all of the Hug Box values was a challenge. From 2017-2023, I had the opportunity to expand the Hug Box and successfully operated a brick and mortar. During that time it gave me great joy to have even more artisans and artists be a part of the Hug Box gifts and provide a space for their creations for the locals to shop and Build a Hug Box in person. It was so much fun! The community loved it as everyone came together to support one another.
Today, even more people are drawn to healthy, consciously made products. More small businesses are embracing transparency, natural ingredients, ethical sourcing, and professional packaging. We still prioritize keeping it local to Georgia whenever possible. But now, many artisans from across the U.S. also meet our standards and they bring variety and creativity. That means more to choose from when we design our themed gift boxes for the Hug Boxes.
When you buy a Hug Box, you are paying fairly. Every artisan is compensated for their time and materials, and we take the time and care to curate, package, and deliver your gift with love. Our packaging remains simple, sweet in design, and made of sustainable materials sourced in the US and never something that will quickly end up in a landfill. The Hug Boxes are fulfilled personally, and each notecard is created with the giftee's message. Every artisan and their product are mentioned on a Hug Box goodies card, so that the recipient knows exactly who made the products in their Hug Box gift box, where and with what ingredients.
I would like to introduce you to just a few of the artisans who have helped shape the Hug Box over the past eleven years from woman-owned, family-owned, Georgia rooted.
Turnrow Bath, Body & Home
A female-owned, family business based in Tyrone, GA. Founded by Marci Scharko, a former educator, originally started to find simple, effective skincare for her daughter’s sensitive skin/eczema. Her products are hand-made, natural, vegan-friendly, cruelty-free. Ingredients include farm-fresh botanicals from their own farm (Scharko Farms) and other Georgia farms. Their product consists of soaps, candles, body oils, insect repellents, etc.. Photo credit: Turnrow Bath, Body & Home. READ MORE.
Bear Hug Honey
Opened in August 2017 by Sam Johnson, a UGA graduate who fell in love with bees and beekeeping after volunteering at farmers’ markets. His shop is located in downtown Athens, Georgia. They offer artisan honeys (local & international), infused honeys (vanilla, spicy, lavender, etc.), natural skincare, beeswax candles, pottery, bee-themed home goods. They also have an in-store honey tasting bar. Photo credit: Bear Hug Honey. READ MORE.
Crazy Rumors
Based in Kennesaw, GA. Edie and Brian Himmel started creating flavored lip balms back in 2003 with one goal in mind: combining wholesome, clean ingredients with unique flavors. They make lip balms that are 100% natural, vegan, cruelty-free; using organic shea butter, jojoba oil, food-grade flavorings. Their packaging is sustainable (lower plastic, recyclable, etc.). Photo credit: Crazy Rumors. READ MORE.
Xocolatl
Founded by Elaine Read and Matt Weyandt. An Atlanta-based small batch chocolate maker, with a micro-factory and retail at Krog Street Market. They use ethically sourced cacao, minimal ingredients (often just cacao + organic cane sugar), and offer vegan / soy-free / gluten-free chocolates. They offer tours & tastings so customers can see the process. They’ve grown from two people to a larger team, maintain sustainable and socially conscious practices. Photo credit: Xocolatl. READ MORE
The makers above are just a glimpse of the heart behind Hug Box. Each time someone opens a Hug Box gift, they’re holding not just a gift box filled with goodies, but a story: of people who care, who believe in their craft, and who want to make a difference.
In the rush of the season, it’s tempting to grab the first generic bottle of wine you see. But this year, let's make a more meaningful choice. When you bring a gift that supports a small, local business, you're giving two presents in one: a token of appreciation for your host, and a boost to your community.
The month of October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The Hug Box has been an advocate for healthy product gifting all along. It is one of the Hug Box's core values. One of the reasons the Hug Box was created was because a dear friend got breast cancer. I wanted to send her a nurturing gift. I couldn't find anything online that I thought was uplifting and healthy.. all natural. I decided to create my own gift basket and source locally with all natural products.
Our artisan gift boxes are designed to deliver more than just products. They deliver comfort, encouragement, and a gentle reminder to slow down. This season, our newest Hug Boxes and timeless favorites are here to help you or someone you care about embrace a reset with intention and love.