The Box Shop: Curated gift boxes for all occasions

Accountants and close chums Nadine Atkinson and Geneviève Cholette, who sit next to one another at work, launched their website in September after months of planning and sourcing high-quality products from Canadian companies.

“It is a creative outlet for both of us,” says Atkinson, adding that the pair both grew up in families with strong entrepreneurial spirits. “As accountants, we are really risk-averse, but we believed in our business idea.”

Atkinson, 29, who recently got married, says she got the idea for The Box Shop after searching for gifts to give to her wedding party. “There weren’t a lot of gifts for men. I also had a hard time finding thoughtful items for women.”

When she mentioned this to Cholette, 28, the latter commented that they should start a company offering useful and unique custom gift packaging.

There are three different boxes: for Him, Her and Baby. A small box features three items and costs $60 and a large box containing five to six items is $100. The gifts are hand-wrapped and include a handwritten card and a detailed product list. Items include scented candles, soaps, body scrubs, chocolate, children’s toys, teas, ceramic mug and socks.

The pair is adding to their lineup with five new themes in time for the holidays and more than 25 additional products, including a gourmet foodie gift box and another that’s ideal for a housewarming or hostess present. The new boxes are available in a variety of sizes and price points.

“Our goal is to keep everything in Canada right down to our custom-made tissue paper and boxes,” says Cholette.

“I hope we appeal to people who are super busy, but want to support local businesses. Who doesn’t like opening a beautiful gift box filled with delightful surprises?” says Atkinson.