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5 Ways to Support Small Businesses (Without Spending a Penny)
As we’re gearing up for some of the biggest shopping days of the year, we wanted to share some ways you can support small and local businesses, without ever spending a penny! While some of these actions seem tiny, they can make a big difference and go a long way to help drive exposure to small businesses.
Why it’s so Important to Shop Small this Holiday
We all SAY we want to shop small, right? Well, this holiday season we challenge you to put your money where your mouth is - consider shopping early for gifts so you CAN shop small without that coveted prime delivery, and support your local economy to keep millions of Americans employed. Give small businesses a fighting chance this winter.
How to Create the Perfect Client Holiday Gift
Client gifting for the holidays is easy, if you know the right “formula.” Luckily, at Happy Box, we’ve curated and shipped tens of thousands of corporate gifts, so we have seen what gift thematics and what types of gift combinations work best.
Our Picks for Holiday Drinks: Cheers to the Holidays
Written by: Brigid Fallon, Marketing & Partnerships Specialist
Whether you want a new drink to try at that upcoming holiday party or you're becoming your own mixologist in the kitchen, we have a few festive drinks that will surely get you into the holiday spirit (no pun intended). Be warned, there was no extensive research or trial and error in the search for some seasonal cocktails. Instead, we went straight to the source, our trusted Happy Box team. Below you’ll find linked our team’s top fizzy, festive, & fun drinks that you should DEFINITELY try. Don’t be fooled - some may seem like the traditional drinks you have every.single.year but there will be a few holiday twists, I promise.
Recommended by: Callie, Strategic Projects & Operations Manager
Starting off on a more traditional note, Spiked Cider is a must, no, a necessity during the fall and winter months. You can’t go wrong with it because it’s delicious AND makes the house smell all warm and fuzzy. However, it can take up to 2-3 hours but the labor aspect is very minimal and you’ll feel like a witch brewing up something special.
Recommended by: John, Inventory Operations Manager, Happy Box Store
We are still continuing the traditional cocktail route and staying with the classics. Up next, we have an Old Fashioned with a holiday twist - this one includes sugared cranberries…It’s the embodiment of the holidays, just in a glass.
Recommended by: Sarah, B2B Partner Success Sr. Manager
Okay, this one may just taste like Christmas. We have the Christmas Moscow Mule, or the “Yule Mule” if you want to sound even more festive when presenting this holiday drink. This is pretty much a regular Moscow Mule, but with the addition of sugar and cranberries, it’s the perfect drink for Christmas (and even Thanksgiving).
Recommended by: Brigid, Marketing & Partnerships Specialist
When the weather outside is frightful, a snowflake martini is so delightful! Get with the holiday theme with this beautifully white drink. This cocktail takes 5 minutes to make and you may end up on the naughty list with how good it is.
Recommended by: Nia, Graphic Designer
Get the marshmallows, whipped cream, and peppermint sticks ready! Some people prefer to stick to their OG hot chocolate, no other flavor added. I admit it took me a very long time to try peppermint hot chocolate (weird, I know) but it’s worth it. If you’re not in an alcohol kind of mood and you’re just relaxing by the fire watching Holiday movies, Peppermint Hot Chocolate is the drink for you. And if you are feeling crazy, add in some peppermint schnapps or vodka of choice with no judgement from over here.
If you didn’t notice, there was no egg nog found here, sorry if you were disappointed…I know I’m not!
We hope you try these festive drinks and have a happy holiday season! If you loved these recipes and tried them out yourself, post a picture on Instagram and make sure to tag us at @happybox. Cheers!
5 Reasons Corporate Gifting is Great for Business
According to a recent corporate gifting study cited by Forbes, more than 80% said gifts have improved relationships with employees and/or clients, with 48% saying gifting delivered a substantial benefit. Key substantial benefits include: making the recipient feel valued, improved customer loyalty, and improved employee retention. Need help with your corporate gifting? Check out all of Happy Box's corporate gift offerings as well as our 2021 Corporate Holiday Gifting Lookbook for all the solutions we have to offer.
2021 Holiday Corporate Gifting Trends
A chill is in the air, which means the start of the corporate holiday gifting season! Here at Happy Box, we’re already designing holiday corporate gift campaigns for some amazing clients, as companies increasingly invest in corporate gifting as workforces continue to stay remote.A recent gifting study cited by Forbes says more than 80% of corporations surveyed say gifts have improved relationships with employees and/or clients. Learn more about working with the Happy Box Corporate Gifting team for custom-sourced and branded gifts for your team this holiday season.
“The pandemic has really changed how we interact in corporate environments among teams,” says Hannah Redmond, Co-Founder and Chief Strategy Officer here at Happy Box. “Shipping an impactful, branded and meaningful corporate gift has made a real impact for the companies we service whether gifting has been used by sales teams for prospecting or engagement, or by HR/People teams to keep employees engaged and feel appreciated.”
Our Corporate Gifting team has put together the following list of top four trends for corporate gifting we’re seeing this holiday season:
Trend #1: Rest & Recharge Gifts
It’s been a crazy couple of years, and the Zoom burnout is real. 80% of Americans surveyed say they intend to regularly practice self-care after COVID-19 pandemic, as they have put various self care practices in place while on lockdown (source: Healio). Putting together a custom kit centered in self care has been one of our most popular custom offerings for the upcoming holiday gifting season. “A box coming from your boss or team encouraging you to relax and take some time off goes a long way,” says Ariel Redmond, Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer here at Happy Box. “We’re seeing requests for creating kits like soothing candles, spa face masks, body balms, indulgent treats, sleep masks, and more self-care essentials.”
Trend #2: Location Themed Gifts
Many leaders and managers at companies have expressed that they miss being in their home offices and cities, with employees now scattered all around the country. We’ve been seeing a rise in location-themed and focused gift boxes with a taste of a specific city, state or country. Picking foods, local artisan/craft items, puzzles/games and holiday accessories all featuring a specific location or city theme has already been a big hit for this upcoming holiday season.
Trend #3: Gifts the Give Back
The season of charitable giving is upon us, and employees are actually more engaged and have more job satisfaction when they work for companies that prioritize charitable giving. We’ve been crafting various gift boxes for this holiday season full of products and gifts that each give back, whether it’s a percentage of sales of each product going to a great cause, or that the product itself is carbon neutral or drives awareness of a cause. It’s been really meaningful for our team to source and craft a gifts that do good for the world. Side note: all Custom Corporate Gifting Campaigns at Happy Box also give back, learn more about that here.
Trend #4: Cocktail Kit Gifts
Not hosting a company holiday party but want to say “cheers” to the team? We’ve been crafting a variety of “home holiday party kits” and “holiday cocktail kits,” which provide a mixology experience for the recipient, and let’s be real: they’re a bit more fun to receive than a standard bottle of wine or whisky. We’ve crafted fun custom branded recipes for clients as well, creating an extra personalized experience.
However you choose to gift this season, we encourage you to start planning early and cross it off your list. At Happy Box, our Corporate Gifting team works with you based on your budget, brand and goals. Our buyers can source almost anything and our creative team will design and brand the perfect curated gift box for your needs.
- Reach out today to get started on your proposal by emailing corporate@happyboxstore.com
- Learn more about our creative process in creating corporate gift campaigns
- Check out all Corporate Gifting Offerings and view our Corporate Gifting Lookbook
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Referenced sources:
- people.com/style/2020-made-americans-even-more-excited-to-practice-self-care-according-to-a-survey/
- www.healio.com/news/psychiatry/20200612/80-of-americans-intend-to-regularly-practice-selfcare-after-covid19-pandemic
- www.forbes.com/sites/pamdanziger/2021/09/01/the-242-billion-business-of-corporate-gifting-turned-from-a-routine-to-a-priority-in-the-pandemic/?sh=7aabc5a86ac2
- https://smarthustle.com/giving-season-for-businesses/#.YViPR0bMJ6o
Happy Box x Bright Pink: Supporting Women’s Health
Happy Box is excited to announce that launching today we are partnering with Bright Pink, an amazing organization that helps educate women on their risk for breast and ovarian cancers.
Bright Pink is the only national non-profit focused on the prevention and early detection of breast and ovarian cancer in young women.
Live on our custom box builder is our NEW “Bright Pink” box, designed in pink and teal to represent both breast and ovarian cancer awareness. Not only will Happy Box be donating $1 for every purchase of this box to Bright Pink, but additionally on each box is a QR code to Bright Pink’s “Assess Your Risk” Quiz so each recipient can understand their risk and take charge of their health. Start shopping and support the cause today.
Bright Pink states that 80% of cancers in young women are discovered by young women themselves. “We hope that in doing this partnership and shipping out these boxes, we’ll drive awareness to not only the amazing work Bright Pink is doing, but also to each woman recipient about the potential risks they may face when it comes to their health,” said Hannah Redmond, Co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Happy Box.
By focusing on health rather than cancer, Bright Pink inspires women to improve their overall lives. Working closely with women, they help assess their risk and create a personalized prevention plan.
“As we are a women-founded company, Bright Pink’s mission means a lot to us,” said Ariel Redmond, Co-founder and Chief Creative Officer of Happy Box. “As women, we should empower one another to proactively check our health.”
Since 2013, over 1.7 million women have assessed their risk with Bright Pink and 600,000+ have learned they are at elevated breast and ovarian cancer risk. Learn what steps you can take now to reduce your risk of breast and ovarian cancer so you can take charge of your health, Take the Quiz.
Start building a box & add the Bright Pink limited edition box to your cart today to help make a difference today!
Quarantine Year in Review
By: Taylor Maleski Lifestyle, Writer & Blogger at Tone of Taylor
Can you believe it’s been over a year since the pandemic first hit? 2020 was full of many highs and what felt like even more lows. As the world has slowly begun to get back to “normal," optimism in the air - and the temperatures rising certainly helps!
The pandemic/quarantine experience taught us a lot about ourselves. It forced us to prioritize what truly matters to us and forced us to grow in ways we may not necessarily have been ready for. Now that we’ve been able to take a moment to breathe, a Quarantine Year in Review is in order! John, Hannah, Callie, and Ariel - all part of our team at Happy Box - have all experienced 2020-2021 differently. Read on to get their perspectives and learn a little bit about what it's like to work at Happy Box!
What is your role at Happy Box?
John: Inventory Operations Manager
Hannah: Co-Founder
Callie: Strategic Projects & Operations Manager
Ariel: Co-Founder
How long have you been working at Happy Box/what made you join?
John: I have been here for about 6 months now. I was looking for a fun, growing company with good energy and growth potential.
Hannah: From the start, when it was back in my apartment!
Callie: I joined the Happy Box team in May of 2020. I was in the middle of a job hunt and I was looking to work for a company that valued happiness in the workplace. There was no better fit than Happy Box; it was meant to be!
Ariel: Since the dawn of Happy Box time! Hannah brought the idea to me in college and we started to execute it (for real) years later.
What has the pandemic taught you to appreciate and/or never take for granted again?
John: Sitting at a bar.
Hannah: Time with family and our health. I feel like we will all live healthier for the better and we will appreciate time with loved ones more than we ever had before.
Callie: The pandemic has taught me to appreciate my family and friends. I didn't get to see many of them over the past year or so, which has been very hard. We're excited to all start seeing each other again and give big hugs! I also appreciate going out to eat and to wineries much more now.
Ariel: Time with friends. I missed just going to dinner with someone and spending time with people who are slightly outside my bubble, but still super important to me.
How has quarantine benefitted you?
John: I found a job at Happy Box
Hannah: I think it forced me to get more organized personally and professionally. I think owning your own business you never really achieve true "work life balance" because making sure the business and your team are ok is always on your mind - but being in quarantine forced me to figure out when and how to make hard lines and blurred lines when it comes to work life and personal life. It was also the time when Ariel and I realized we had to shift the business from a side-hustle to a full time job for both of us, which we couldn't be happier about!
Callie: Quarantine has benefitted me by reminding me how important it is to take care of yourself first. You really do need some extra "me" time every week. It's important to rest and recharge. I often get caught up in my work and tend to thrive when I'm moving a million miles per minute. However, it's important to have those self reflective moments where you can check in on yourself and ask your mind and body what they need.
Ariel: I think it helped me realize the difference between who I want in my life and who I thought I wanted in my life. I have a much firmer grasp on real friendships now than I ever have.
What did you learn about yourself during the pandemic?
John: Quarantine gave me a lot of time to really reflect on what I want in life. Which is mostly just to drink coffee and sit around with my dog.
Hannah: This is something random I learned, but I learned I am a mid-morning workout person! I never knew because working a corporate job I never had the opportunity to work out mid morning....it was always before work or after work.
Callie: During the pandemic, I learned that I actually DO like to stay in a lot! I'm quite the homebody and quarantine was the perfect excuse to channel that side of myself. I also moved during the pandemic, and discovered that I really like decorating a new space and making it feel homey!
Ariel: I learned I like being alone! I'm a SERIOUS extrovert, but quarantine gave me time to recharge alone and honestly, it was long overdue.
What are you most excited about for the "new normal"?
John: Shorter lines at Trader Joes
Hannah: I think that the blended work environment (some in person and some remote) is here to stay and I'm here for it. We spend so much time in our lives at the office and just having the ability to make lunch in your own kitchen or the ability to sleep right until your first meeting I think adds a lot of value to the day. Sleep and self care are important. Comfort is important. My commute was not historically bad, and still just not worrying about what to wear, doing makeup and getting on the subway is just a relief I never knew I needed. I think if employees are happier and are more comfortable, they will appreciate "in person" time more, and they will be more productive remotely as a result.
Callie: I'm excited that the "new normal" will make it less taboo to have more WFH time. I think that's a great aspect that has come out of the pandemic. Often I find that I can be more productive at home when I'm less distracted, so it has really benefited my work productivity.
Ariel: I am looking forward to seeing our employees' beautiful faces! We built such a strong team while in quarantine, and I can't wait to build a strong in-person presence to compliment our kick-ass remote presence!
Did this make you pause and think about your year in review? Feel free to DM us at @happyboxstore on Instagram with your answers - we love to hear from you!
When Life Doesn’t Have A Manual, Listen To A Mom
In light of this past year, we wanted to share some advice that our moms have shared with us that has resonated with us in good times and bad.We asked some of the Happy Box team “what advice was given to them by a mother-figure in your life that has stuck with you throughout the years?”
Instagram Accounts to Follow this International Women’s Day
Written by: Brigid Fallon
Social media can be a negative place sometimes, but hey, it’s 2021 and strong, powerful women do NOT have time for that kind of energy (we’re too busy breaking glass ceilings). However, it also has the potential to effect change in positive ways. International Women’s Day (3/8) is a day that honors the great achievements of women and raises awareness about women's equality in society. This is why we want to highlight women who choose to spread positivity as well as empower other women on social media. These accounts will grace your feed by inspiring you through daily advice, memes, and quotes to spread good and raise one another up.
So while International Women’s Day is one day of the year, be inspired every day by following these amazing accounts:
Sara Blakey (@Sarablakely)
Businesswoman, Entrepreneur, and Philanthropist, Sara Blakley is the founder of Spanx, a brand of body-slimming undergarments, leggings, swimwear and maternity wear. In 2012 she became the world's youngest female self-made billionaire (if that’s not inspiring idk what is). Through her philanthropy work she continues to back a fund for female entrepreneurs. Her instagram account is full of personal pictures of her family as well as career and self-love advice that every woman should hear. Sara is the ultimate power woman being a mom of four AND an inventor.
SoGal Foundation (@imsogal)
As it says in their insta bio, the SoGal Foundation is on a “mission to close the diversity gap in entrepreneurship and investing globally”. The foundation is the largest global platform for the empowerment of diverse entrepreneurs and investors. Founded by Yiqing Sun, she felt that the road to entrepreneurship was very lonely since it is a male dominated industry and there was not enough support for women within this industry. She created the SoGal Community during her time at USC and it immediately began to gain global recognition. We stan this entrepreneurial foundation with it’s main goal to support women in business!
Sallie Krawcheck (@sallie.krawcheck) & Ellevest (@ellevest)
Sallie Krawcheck is the founder and ceo of Ellevest, “a financial company for women, by women”. Their overall mission is to help women get more money into their hands by offering career coaching, financial planning, and investing services. The instagram account for Ellevest is full of inspirational quotes, tips, and tricks on how to achieve your goals as a woman. Along with her work with Ellevest, Sallie is also the chair of the Ellevate network, a global professional network for women. Her professional goal is to help women achieve their fullest potential professionally and financially.
Dr. Akilah Cadet (@changecadet)
Self-appointed as the “Olivia Pope of Diversity” Akilah’s platform is specifically to ensure change for people of color everywhere and overall has great content that empowers. The Change Cadet offers multiple services that help your personal development as well as group development aimed towards anti-racism, diversity, inclusion, equity, and belonging. They encourage followers to be uncomfortable in order to impact change and their instagram is full of informational quotes, personal stories, and ways for you to get involved to create your own change.
Ladies Get Paid (@ladiesgetpaid)
Ladies Get Paid is a service that helps women in their financial and professional endeavors. By becoming a member you are accessing a worldwide network of women that offers education and resources to help you advance! They instagram a lot of informational posts about helpful webinars, the guests that will be included in their “fireside chats” as well as memes and inspirational quotes. A must follow!
The Female Collective (@femalecollective)
The Female Collective is an amazing resource if you need some self-care content and quotes about self-love (let’s be real.. Everyone needs that). Founder and activist, @candacereels created this platform as a way for women to be celebrated, supported, and empowered 24/7.
And finally...
Girlboss (@girlboss)
Girlboss is a community that brings together ambitious, career-driven women who are redefining what makes them successful. On their aesthetically pleasing Instagram account, Girlboss offers advice, relatable memes, and brings awareness to women’s achievements. They also have an amazing podcast called Girlboss Radio Podcast which provides honest and uplifting content that will leave you feeling like you can achieve anything! If you need motivation- get on the Girlboss train.
Whether you need a confidence boost, advice, ways to get involved, or some life motivation- these instagram accounts and their organizations as whole are our go-tos. All of their missions mean a lot to us and as women we should be hyping one another up everyday!
Happy International Women’s Day, you’re beautiful and strong. Now go seize the day!
Celebrating Galentine’s Day in Quarantine
Written By: Brigid Fallon, Marketing & Partnerships Specialist @ Happy Box
Ways to Celebrate Galentine’s Day in Quarantine
If you don’t already know, Galentine’s Day stems from an episode of the popular TV series, Parks and Recreation that came out in 2010. Every February 13th, fictional character Leslie Knope hosts a brunch to celebrate the lovely ladies in her life which then became the unofficial holiday that allows women to celebrate each other single or not. Compared to the daunting pressure of Valentine’s Day, Galentine’s Day is known for its pink themed celebrations and anything heart shaped that you can get your hands on.
This year has made us appreciate our friends and family SO much more. Even though you may not be physically there to shower your BFFs with love and affection, the Galentine festivities must go on! We’ve come up with a few ideas on how to celebrate Galentine’s Day ~covid style~.
Rom-Com Movie Tandem Watch Party
Have everyone pick out their favorite romantic comedy and grab the popcorn and wine! There is no better way to celebrate Galentine’s Day than to live vicariously through Kate Hudson in “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days.” We suggest streaming through teleparty, zoom, and hulu watch party so both you and your socially distant friends can swoon over Matthew McConaughey together.
Dinner and Dessert à la Zoom
If eating your feelings sounds about right- we’re all for it. Host a virtual GNO and have everyone order in their favs. Afterwards satisfy that sweet tooth and have a lil’ dessert party. Bake some galentine themed sweet treats that you can happily indulge. Here is some treat inspo to share with your girls.
Jam out to a not-so-sad playlist
Hop on over to Spotify- they have so many different playlists for any occasion or mood that will definitely pick up your spirits. Have a dance party or go for a drive to really get in touch with your inner Mariah Carey.
Get Outside
These winter blues are hitting hard right about now. If you can, go on a socially distant walk/hike with your friends! When it’s harder to get a gossip sesh in over brunch, take it to the trails and burn some calories!
Cheers to Friendship!
Host a virtual Galentine’s cocktail hour and have everyone create a Galentine’s themed drink. Here are some pink and pretty cocktails that will definitely taste as good as they look.
Send your Gals some Valentines
No doubt the best part of Valentine’s Day as a kid was picking out the perfect Valentine’s to give to your classmates! You’re never too old to send some valentines to your BFFs. Relive your youth and see what cute and fun valentines your local store has to offer. You can also check out our Valentine’s Gift Guide that has many lovable gift options your long-distance gal will appreciate.
Treat yo’self
Celebrate YOU. Have the ultimate spa night in by throwing on your favorite pj’s, picking out a face mask, and having a movie, tv show, or podcast ready to play. Oh and don’t forget your go-to take-out place that you have on speed dial.
2021 Goals: Resolve to Keep in Touch
Written by Brigid Fallon
*I’m worried about your extroverted friend, send them a text*
This year has been tough to say the least. Everyone has had tremendous ups and downs and will continue to ride that roller coaster next year. With “Social Distancing” being the new normal and the unknowingness of how long that will last, it feels so d*mn hard to be positive and to stay connected under these circumstances. With the New Year approaching, we wanted to come up with a guide that can help you feel less isolated and more connected in fun and creative ways. Together, let’s resolve to stay in touch this New Year (and all year)!
Make Regularly Scheduled Facetime “Dates”
Facetiming is downright the easiest way to connect to your long distance people. As someone who usually hates talking on the phone, I have become accustomed to facetiming my friends and family daily and it makes feeling connected so much better. Make regularly Facetimed “Dates” that you have set in stone. When it’s marked on your calendar you have no excuse to cancel and it will make you feel so much better! You can also do Facetime dinner dates with friends and your S/O- make the same recipe or order in dinner. There are other ways that you are able to video chat online; Google Hangout and Zoom!
(Virtual) Book Club
Do you miss your in person book club where it was less talking about the book and more gossiping and wine? Don’t worry! With Zoom and Google Meet you can send a link to your girls and continue the discussions about your favorite reads right now. Send your club the same bottle of wine to make it feel even more like the 2019 version of book club.
Netflix and Chill
Binge watching shows and movies with your long distance BFF or S/O is so much easier now with Teleparty, formally Netflixparty. If you have the Chrome Browser, you can download the Teleparty extension and start watching shows from HBO, Netflix, Disney, and Hulu at the same time as your friends. Invite your friends to watch a movie by sending them an invitation link and voila, let the bingeing begin!
Send “Old Fashioned” Letters/Cards
There is something so sentimental about receiving a letter in the mail. Hand written notes are significantly more special rather than sending an email or quick text. Buy some cute stationary and keep your friends up to date with a more authentic and personalized touch.
New Hobby with a Friend
Getting into a new hobby is the perfect way to start off the new year and name a better way to re-clique with friends! Start a workout together. Exercising alone is fine but exercising with friends makes it so much more bearable. Together you can hold one another accountable and it’s the perfect way to de-stress. If working out is not your cup of tea get into DIY projects! There are so many projects and crafts that you can do together that are affordable and cute *cue a deep pinterest search hole*. And finally, get into cooking! If you’ve been eating out a lot and it’s taking a toll on your wallet this will help you save and you’ll become a master chef. Start by finding a new meal to make once a week and go from there. Cheers to new skills!
Download Games on your phone
If you don’t have a lot of time to chat, or there’s just no new updates in your life but still want to feel connected, download games on your phone to play with friends. Some of my favorites are Trivia Crack, Words with Friends, and Gamepigeon which lets you play games right through imessage.
Send a Care Package
And finally, there is nothing more special than receiving a well thought out gift in the mail. Let your friends know that you’re thinking about them by sending a care package. With Happy Box, you can shower your friends with love by building your own or picking from our curated collection and it’s so simple!
Just because we have to stay distanced doesn’t mean we have to be distant. Staying connected is now more important than ever. With creativity, and of course technology staying in touch is so much easier. With these tips and tricks you’ll be in touch with friends and family no matter how many miles apart you are.
Our Favorite Holiday Recipes
Written by: Brigid Fallon, Marketing Intern
Here at Happy Box we love to divulge in holiday treats and drinks and we never shy away from trying something new and neither should you. This year has been quite different, and so can your dinner whether it’s adding a new dish or drink to the menu. Regardless if you’re feasting safely with friends or family, our team came together to share our festive favorites that you should definitely add to your list. None of us are top chefs but these recipes will definitely make you feel like you’re on Barefoot Contessa and your guests will think so too.
"I recently came across this recipe for Bacon Jam Cinnamon Rolls and I knew I had to try these for the holidays! I will personally use crispy turkey bacon but who can turn down warm cinnamon rolls period...(plus this recipe uses my favorite jam from Trade St. Jam & Co - Cranberry, Raspberry, & Sage). Excited to add this to my recipe book!" - Marquise
Downeast Maine Pumpkin Bread
"This is my favorite holiday recipe and I make it every year, going on 11 years. It is THE BEST pumpkin bread recipe there is (with 10,000+ 5 star ratings on allrecipes.com, seriously.) Pro-tip: cut the sugar in half and double the spices (especially the cloves....my fave!), makes for a less sweet, spicier treat. Oh and always eat it warm." - Hannah
Mulled Wine
"My favorite dessert is Pecan Pie ...HOWEVER baking is not my strong suit. I typically make a trip to Petee's Pie's in the city during the holidays to pick up some of my favorites. Something I CAN make and have mastered is Mulled Wine. For those who do not know, mulled wine is heated red wine and winter spices such as cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg. It really hits the spot in the winter. You can find my favorite recipe here: Mulled Wine Recipe | Gimme Some Oven. Trust me on this one, it’s delicious. Pro tip: Keep the heat on a low simmer and make sure you don’t let the wine bubble. It will burn off the alcohol… something you don’t want.”- John
Linzer Tart Cookies
“It’s not Christmas without cookies and my family has been making Linzer Tarts for as long as I could remember- it’s a staple in our family. We make loads of these to give to family and friends every year and I must say it is a favorite. With powdered sugar and raspberry jam, it’s the epitome of Christmas in a cookie and you cannot go wrong with making these.” - Brigid
Cinnamon Rolls
This is my mom’s old recipe we’ve been using for years. We always eat them on Christmas morning! - Callie
Ordering from Local Restaurants!
"The holidays are crazy, and sometimes, you need to throw in the dish-towel. I love finding festive faves at local restaurants. I feel good knowing i’m supporting local spots, and there are no dishes to do! I’ve never felt better ordering takeout." - Ariel
How to Host a Virtual Holiday Party
Written by: Brigid Fallon
The holidays look slightly different this year - consider Thanksgiving the appetizer. That doesn’t mean you can’t be festive this holiday season, you’ll just need to adapt to a new normal and make new memories in new ways. It’s definitely time to get creative.
We’ve come up with a few tips on how to host a virtual party this season that will keep everyone’s spirits up. Whether it’s a family Christmas celebration, a friends get-together, or an office party- we got you.
But first, how do you start?
Well, it’s simple. Decide what platform you want to use; Zoom, Google Hangouts, Facetime. Create an invitation to send via text, e-vite, email, or even a paper invitation to make it even more formal and real. Make sure the invitation is sent on time with the correct time and date as well as the link to the meet. No one wants to be waiting for a zoom call that doesn’t exist...
Tip #1: Plan your virtual party in advance
Whether you planned a theme, a gift exchange, or a hefty heap of holiday activities, You want to make sure there is no awkward silence! Keep it light and fun.
Tip #2: Do something fun and creative for food and drinks *yum*
Food and drinks are key, just ask Santa. He doesn’t bother going to a house unless he gets milk and cookies, and your guests expect the same. Also, due to Covid, people have become connoisseurs in both food and drinks whether it’s charcuterie boards, making bread, or becoming mixologists.
Everyone could use a drink and treat after this whirlwind of a year so here are a few easy ways to mix in the part of the holidays that everyone looks forward to:
- Wine Tasting: have everyone find a fun wine and curate a list of all the wines to send out to your group. Then, have everyone go buy a bottle of each for an at-home wine tasting! Put on your PJ’s and taste each one together, one by one and discuss like the classy ladies you are.
- Recipe Exchange: Have everyone exchange recipes to one other person that they have to make for the virtual event. You can use a generator online or do it yourself. Recipes can range from appetizers to dessert, it is up to you! Be sure to make them ~holiday~ themed!
- Cookie Decorating: You can either have members bake their own cookies or send cookie kits right to their door for a fun night of decorating.
- Christmas Carry-Out Night: This is for those looking to keep things really simple but still feel connected. Decide on a local restaurant (if you live locally) to eat at, the way you normally would if you were going OUT to dinner, and all friends order from the same place, It’ll feel like you all are in person at the same place!
- Virtual Cocktail Hour: if you are keeping it simple, plan a cocktail hour. Invite your group and encourage them to become a mixologist for the night by sending a list of cocktail ideas that they can make at home! Happy Box has plenty of cocktail mixers, cocktail accessories, and syrups to choose from, and even a cute, helpful hangover kit so you can show your friends and family some TLC after a crazy night of virtual drinking. Check out our Hot Toddy Box that delivers your cocktail needs.
Tip #3: Plan Activities
To make this feel like a real party or event, keep the party busy! Consider offering prizes for games.
- Host an Ugly Sweater Contest: Make an ugly holiday sweater the mandatory dress code and vote on who has the ugliest/most festive. This will also help people get into the holiday spirit. Have everyone vote on who’s is the best
- Secret Santa/White Elephant: Have everyone participate in Secret Santa with a little time in advance. Use a generator online like Elfster that sends their chosen person via text or email and set a price limit! Make sure everyone includes their address so members can get their gifts in time for the event. Happy Box is the ultimate gifting destination for long distance giving and secret santa- so check out our curated holiday boxes or create your own gift!
- Holiday Charades: You can create a holiday-esque list for charades that you send to everyone via email/text. Divide everyone into teams and each team guesses what was chosen off the list; it can be a movie title, song, book title, virtually anything!
- Name that Holiday Tune: Create a playlist of holiday cover songs and play the song for a few seconds. The person to guess the name of the song first , wins a point. Keep track of the points and announce the winner at the end.
- Holiday Trivia: Find questions and answers online that go hand in hand with the theme of your party. If it’s a cocktail themed party, make it about mixology and drink history; if it is a bunch of your childhood friends make it about each other and some memories! Divide everyone into teams and let the games begin!
Covid-19 has changed so much within the last year but that is no reason it should change holiday rituals. Yes, a virtual holiday party will look slightly different but with this guide you’ll be hosting a party that doesn’t actually suck. Yay! Merry Zoom-mas.
Virtual Date Ideas
Written By: Caitlyn Conville / @cat_lyn99
Whether you’re in a long-distance relationship or you and your significant other are quarantining separately, this year has familiarized everyone with virtual dating! Lucky for you, Happy Box and all of our awesomely unique items are here to make sure that your virtual dates are as interactive and intimate as they can be.
So quick, open Zoom and let’s get started with some long distance date ideas!
A Flippin’ Good Morning
Nothing quite stacks up to treating your love to breakfast in bed, even if you’re miles apart and they have to make it themselves… the sweet sentiment is still there!
Send yourself and your partner matching custom gift boxes for a brekky date one morning, complete with pancake mix and rich maple syrup. Happy Box has just starting stocking fun fall flavors for all your pumpkin spice breakfast needs!
Set up your laptops in the kitchen and compete to see who’s the master pancake flipper, then write sappy love notes for each other in syrup, all without ever changing out of your PJs!
Keep Calm And Get Your Spa On
Now that you’ve got a social distancing date idea for the morning, you need one for the evening! And an at-home spa is just the right way to treat yourself and your beloved after an exhausting day of being apart.
From sheet masks to body butter to bath bombs, Happy Box has all the luxurious products you could want for a relaxing night in. There’s even a “bro mask” to convince your manly fella to do a sheet mask with you (and secretly take screenshots)!
Alcohol You Later
Do both of your time zones sync up for happy hour? Then let Happy Box propose a toast to celebrate!
Whether you play a drinking game during a movie, or just sit, sip and enjoy each other’s company, this virtual date idea proves you don’t need to go to the bar to have a good time.
Happy Box has plenty of cocktail mixers and syrups to choose from, and even a cute, helpful hangover kit so you can show your sweetheart a little extra care the next day.
Technically it’s not drinking alone if your partner’s on the other side of the screen!
Hindsight 2020
November 3rd might just be the end of the world, so we might as well party, am I right?
Help your dearest prepare for Election Night with a survival kit from Happy Box. We have funny political-themed cocktail picks and comfy gym socks that proudly proclaim “I Vote for Snacks,” because clearly they’re the best candidate. Maybe throw in something to craft a drink for good measure.
The two of you can spend your virtual date updating each other on the election results and looking up plane tickets to Canada.
Best 2020 Birthday Gifts
Written By: Caitlyn Conville / @cat_lyn99
The Best 2020 Birthday Gifts are the ones you make yourself.
2020 has been rough so far - your loved one could probs use a little extra affection and a little extra surprise and joy on their birthday this year. Rather than just ordering something random from Amazon, make them something personalized in a few clicks with our custom gift box builder! Why?
They’re More Thoughtful than the Average Gift Basket
Hand-picked, personal birthday gifts just radiate love and consideration. A DIY project like building a custom care package tells the recipient that you put in the time and effort to hand-select each and every item. You showed that you pay attention to their interests and personality, which in turn shows just how much you care about them!
They’re One of a Kind - Truly
Every hand-crafted care package gift is unique! That exact box with those exact sentiments will never be created again. It’s a treasure, and makes for a very special experience. Something precious shared between only you two.
They're Affordable
Custom gift boxes from Happy Box are already affordable, but you can still control the total cost by picking out more affordable items (we have 99+ to choose from) to your heart’s content without sacrificing quality.
They’re More Personal with a Beautifully Handwritten Note
The best part is writing your message in the card - the pièce de résistance! - to tell them precisely the reason you picked each and every gift. Whether the item is emotionally tied to a memory or just something you know will make them laugh, you and your recipient have endless memories between the both of you. Use them to your advantage!
Happy Box Pro-tip: Think back to all your shared years of friendship to when you build them the perfect custom gift box and mention your thinking in your card: “I got you a face mask because you need to chillax! And it’s watermelon-scented - your favorite!” or “Here’s a sticker of Drake, because I know you still listen to God’s Plan on repeat,” or “A pink scrunchy to finally replace that one I stole from you, teehee!” or “The Brunch candle represents all the times we’ve drank too many mimosas at brunch together.”
Using the Happy Box custom gift box builder, smiles are guaranteed.