Finding unique, intentional gifts for friends and family has always been a lifelong joy of mine. The initial spark for a gift basket business first came to me back in 2004, though it was set aside for a few years as I continued my career in graphic design.
That dream re-emerged in 2013, but with a clearer purpose. I worked diligently to conceptualize, brand, and build The Hug Box™, officially launching in June 2014 as an online care package service dedicated to helping people "send a hug" when they couldn't be there in person.
What began as an online service grew into something even bigger. In June 2018, I opened a brick-and-mortar at 13 West Washington Street in Historic Downtown Newnan, Georgia. It became a cozy, friendly haven for neighbors and visitors to curate custom gift boxes, browse all-natural local goods, and connect.
Over the years, the shop evolved:
After six wonderful years of living out the dream of a storefront, that chapter came to a close in May 2024. Moving back to a purely online gift service allowed us to go back to where it all started and focusing on delivering hugs across the US and in the Newnan, Georgia area.
In 2026, we refreshed the brand to simplify even further. While we no longer offer "Build Your Own" or custom bulk orders, we have returned to our core purpose: providing thoughtfully curated, ready-to-ship Hug Boxes for life's most meaningful moments for Get Well, Sympathy, Birthday, and Thinking of You.
From day one, The Hug Box has been a collaborative platform built to uplift talented makers and small businesses. We proudly partner with local Georgia artisans and cherished US small businesses, including:
Every Hug Box is fulfilled and custom-wrapped with purpose. From our personalized packaging to our commitment to sustainable practices, every detail is handled with care.
Through our Hug it Forward campaign, a percentage of every sale is donated annually to support local non-profits, ensuring every gift sent makes a positive ripple in our community.
I am deeply thankful to my family and friends who supported this vision from the start, and for the lasting partnerships built with artisans, makers, and small business owners. Most of all, the greatest joy in this journey is hearing that our clients and recipients feel loved, comforted, and remembered when they open a Hug Box.
Many hugs,
Vicki Sanders
Creator + CHO (Chief Hug Officer)