I’m finally finishing up my outstanding April posts with my Fair Ivy Box. This month I opted for the new subscription Fair Ivy offered for one mystery handmade item. So let’s jump right into it.
Watercolor Card Set by Rachelle Levingston
(Retail: $14.00)
Verdict: Love!
They mystery item turned out to be some beautiful blank cards designed by watercolor painter Rachelle Levingston. The set that I was sent has drawings from different themes so it appears that it was put together specifically for Fair Ivy. I love stationary and I keep a supply of cards for all kinds of occasions. The designs are universal enough to be used for many different holidays and special events as well as every day greetings. I know I’ll find a use for all of them.
Since I thought I was only getting one mystery package this month, I was surprised to get two more in the mail. It turns out Fair Ivy sent some of its “most loyal customers” some extra samples to try. So two more fun surprises to open!
Surprise Sample #1:
Lavender Soap from Would You Lather
(Retail: $4.00 for a 5 oz bar)
Verdict: Hit!
Would You Lather creates handmade skincare products like soap, body butter, body scrub, moisturizing wash and more. Their scents are derived from pure essential oils and their entire product line is made in small batches. This bar had a lovely natural scent. I’m happy to add it to my ever growing subscription box soap collection. They also included a coupon for 20% off your next order, just use FAIR42014 (it expires ion 8/31/2014).
On to Surprise Sample #2:
Lilac Candle from the Columbia Fragrance Co.
(Retail: $18.00 for a 12 oz Candle)
Verdict: Gift
The Columbia Fragrance Co. specializes in artisan hand poured candles and boutique home fragrances. This candle was elegantly packaged, unfortunately the scent was a bit strong for me. However, I think those who enjoy floral scents will really like it. The packaging makes it an adorable gift so I’m going to add it to my gift stash.
OVERALL
Verdict: Hit!
I’m not sure how to do an estimated retail on this since I got those great free gifts. I paid $22 including shipping and the cards were valued at about $14.00 retail (not including shipping). I’m happy with what I received for my $22. I got some lovely cards and got to try out a couple interesting new brands.
FAIR IVY NEWS
I’ve got some good news and some bad news for you. The bad news is that Fair Ivy is going on a hiatus beginning at the end of June, so June will be the last month for subscriptions until they start up again next year. The good news is they are taking a break to focus on finding new brands and new artists, so when they come back they should be better than ever.
Do you enjoy handmade items? Are you a frequent Etsy shopper?
THE BACKSTORY
Fair Ivy is a subscription box of beautifully wrapped, handmade items made by individual artisans.
There are now three exciting subscription options:
A jewelry only subscription at $25.00 a month (plus shipping) for 1 jewelry item per month. (This option will ship in the US & Canada).
Or
The Mystery at $20.00 a month (plus shipping) for 1 handmade mystery gift every month
Or
The Duet subscription at $35.00 a month (plus shipping) of 2 handmade items (1 item will be jewelry). (This option only ships in the US).
Because the items ship directly from the artisans, if you choose a duet subscription you will receive the packages individually throughout the month.
DISCOUNT CODE: FAIRIVYFRIEND for $5 off the first month of any subscription.
Lisa Preziosi 