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July 2020 – Parcel Contents

Posted on by thesmileparcel

Hello lovelies, it’s time for another parcel reveal!

Our theme for July was “Relax & Recharge” and they contained products all connected with giving you an excuse to simply pause for a moment, be mindful and, just like your phone, recharge your batteries.

July Contents:

Splendor Sandalwood Candle Jar –

Welcome to your July parcel and this month’s theme “Relax & Recharge”. Your first item is this lovely jar candle – when we think of relaxing, our first thought goes to lighting a candle, regardless of the time of year. The fragrance of Splendor Sandalwood is a calm refreshing scent and the perfect choice for this parcel.

Colouring Sheet & Twig Pencils –

If you’re a regular subscriber to The Smile Parcel, you’ll know that we’ve included a colouring sheet in previous parcels. Colouring for adults has become a popular hobby and is a great way of taking relaxing time out for yourself. A single colouring sheet can be great if you’re one of those who struggles to make time for me-time…there’s always something else that needs doing or someone else who needs our attention. You may initially think that colouring isn’t for you, but once you get started, it almost “forces” you to be mindful for a few moments, to take a breather and think of something else, even if it’s only for a short time. We included some super rustic twig colouring pencils to help you get started!

Bath Fizzers –

Now, you could probably smell the beautiful fragrance of these mini bath fizzers even before you spotted them inside your parcel. These have been made by Trishell at Bathing Beauties, who you can find over in her Etsy shop. The perfect excuse to run a bath, light your candle, allow yourself to unwind for a while and let the worries of the day drift away…

Bookmark & Snack Bar –

There’s no drama with this Llama and he’s keeping an eye on you …and your page! Reading can be the ultimate escapism, I find it difficult to switch my mind off enough to focus on a book, so I’m very jealous of those of you who can. If you are able to get lost in a book, this Llama has got your back! And, of course, it’s then time for the “Recharge” part of your parcel – a snack bar to help keep you refuelled, after all, all this relaxing can be exhausting!

 ‘Blank Canvas’ Postcard –

We love these postcards, they have a great message, a reminder that each day is a brand new shiny blank canvas, to start over. If yesterday didn’t go so well, try again today. Postcard from Katie Abey Design.

Smile Cards –

As always, there should be a couple of these little cards in your parcel, I’ve written one for you, and the blank one, is for you to write a short inspirational or positive message, and give to someone you know, or leave somewhere for a complete stranger to find – but this is of course optional, there’s absolutely no pressure to do this if you don’t want to.

Parcel Assistant –

Your Pom-Pom Parcel Assistant who helped us to pack your parcel this time was, Frank!

 

 

Karen x

 

 

What Makes The Smile Parcel Different?

Posted on by thesmileparcel

So, what makes us different? – This is an important question for businesses, especially small businesses and especially, at the moment.

So, I wanted to tell you a little more about us, what we’re all about, and what does make us different.

We don’t offer continuous subscriptions…

We decided when we created The Smile Parcel, that we wouldn’t offer a continuous subscription, as we know it can be off-putting to feel trapped in a long term subscription, so instead we offer just 3, or 6 month subscriptions (or one-off parcels) which naturally expire after your last parcel payment is taken, it’s then completely up to you, if you want to re-order again (lots of you do, thank you!)

We don’t have many offers or sales…

You may of noticed that we don’t have a lot of sales, discounts or offers at The Smile Parcel, as we wanted to ensure our customers knew they were receiving value for money, always.

We do occasionally have a one-off discount, to celebrate our birthday or an anniversary, for example, as we want to treat our lovely customers from time to time, but otherwise, our prices are what you see.

We don’t bombard you with emails!

We routinely send just 2 emails a month, one to let those of you who have placed an order, know when they are on their way, so you know when to receive them, and one as a little update, or maybe to share a mental health tip, to those of you struggling.

When you place an order, you’ll receive an email as a thank you and confirmation, but this will be a personal email, not an automated one, and if you decide to cancel your subscription, we won’t send you emails begging you to come back, as we understand there could be lots of reasons for doing this.

We have amazingly loyal customers!

Now, this may be controversial, but I’m going to say it anyway, I’m pretty certain that The Smile Parcel has the best customers in the whole world!

We have such fabulously loyal customers, some of which have received every single monthly parcel.

We’re fortunate to have a very low cancellation rate, I can count on one hand how many customers have cancelled their subscription early over the last 3 years, and one of those sent a lovely email to apologise and explain why she needed to cancel! (of course, she didn’t need to do this!)

Basically, you lot are amazing!!

We’re not all about growth and expansion…

This is a difficult one, as we are a huge supporter of small business, and growth and expansion are important to run a successful business. But, for us, we’ve worked hard over the last few years to build The Smile Parcel into where we are today, and it’s where we want to stay.

The next stage could be to hand over our packing to a fulfilment centre, or give the reigns of customer service to an agency, but this isn’t for us.

We want to keep all our packing in-house, so we know exactly what’s going inside your parcels, and I know I may sound a little odd in saying this, but talking to our customers is my favourite part of the job!

Our ambition now is to continue where we are, keep sending smiles, providing great customer service and of course, wrapping parcels!

Karen x

June 2020 – Parcel Contents

Posted on by thesmileparcel

Hello!

Right, I’m back on track this month and have remembered to show you this months parcel contents, on time…whoop! 😉

Our theme for June was “Step Outside” and they contained products all associated with making the most out of our time being outside, seeing nature and exploring the great outdoors!

June Contents:

Butterflies & Bees Welcome Here –

This month your parcel theme is ‘Step Outside’. Usually at this time of the year, we’d be encouraging you to get outside, see the countryside, visit parks and generally enjoy the great outdoors in every way possible. But, as we know, this year is a little different! Having said this, we can still enjoy being outside, within the parameters allowed, and hopefully we will be back experiencing it with friends and family soon. What we can do though, is enjoy being with nature, take in our surroundings and notice the butterflies and bees, whether that’s in our own gardens, or while taking a leisurely stroll.

Heart Decoration –

We loved the delicate design of this hanging metal heart decoration. Now it just needs somewhere lovely to hang, maybe in a window, on a door handle, or even as part of a gallery wall display.

Bee Wish Bracelet –

This lovely “Don’t Worry Bee Happy” wish charm bracelet has been lovingly handmade by Mermaid Marys UK, who you can find on Etsy.

The Law of Attraction is the ability to attract into our lives whatever we are focusing on, and using the power of our mind to translate whatever is in our thoughts, to materialise into reality. Now, I admit, this isn’t something we know a lot about, however, we do believe that positivity and focusing on our dreams and goals, is a great first step to achieving them!

Mini Rainbow –

“Be A Rainbow In Someone Else’s Cloud” – we loved the little gift bag alone, so when we discovered the cute resin rainbow inside, these were a must-have addition to your parcel this month. Rainbows have taken on a new meaning during the current pandemic, and we’ve become used to seeing them to support the amazing work of the NHS and our key workers. It’s understandable that some people will want to forget about this period in time when this is all over, but for others, they want to remember a time when they got to spend time at home with family. We decided to include the rainbow, so you can keep it as a memento yourself if you wish, or pass it on to someone who may be struggling, or maybe give to a much-valued key worker.

 The Tiger of Unapologetic Awesomeness –

Well, there’s not a lot we can say about “The Tiger of Unapologetic Awesomeness” apart from, well, he’s awesome?!

Postcard from Katie Abey Design.

Smile Cards –

As always, there should be a couple of these little cards in your parcel, I’ve written one for you, and the blank one, is for you to write a short inspirational or positive message, and give to someone you know, or leave somewhere for a complete stranger to find – but this is of course optional, there’s absolutely no pressure to do this if you don’t want to.

Parcel Assistant –

Your Pom-Pom Parcel Assistant who helped us to pack your parcel this time was, Kenny!

Karen x

May 2020 – Parcel Contents

Posted on by thesmileparcel

Hello Lovelies!

Eek! This post is slightly (very!) late and I have no excuse, other than in the ongoing situation, I, well, forgot to show you the contents of last months parcel, Oops!

So, our May theme was “Cuppa Break” and they contained everything you need to take a short break from the current chaos surrounding us (something I obviously could do with now!).

May Contents:

“Mind Your Own Biscuits” Mug –

This month your parcel is all about those times when we need to give ourselves a break – and even better, a cuppa break! We loved these mugs as soon as we spotted them, the lookalike enamel style looks great and the quote is fabulous too – and if you’re on a cuppa break, everyone else should definitely mind their own biscuits!!

Pukka Tea Bags –

Obviously, we couldn’t give you a mug without including tea bags. We would usually recommend you share these and use them as an excuse to meet up with a friend, and have a natter and catch-up…but sadly, at the moment, that just isn’t possible. But, it will be, we will all be back together again soon, so you can either keep these tea bags until you can share them, or, just as importantly, give yourself a break (or two!) – we’re all going through a tough time at the moment, so don’t forget you deserve a break too.

The cute tea bag envelope was created just for our parcels by Crafty Little Fox.

Biscuit Tub & Coaster –

This cute biscuit tub is perfect for popping in the car, or in a handbag, just to have a sweet treat ready at hand, just when you need a little pick-me-up. The coaster “Doughnut Worry Be Happy” is from Old English Company.

Puzzles! –

Now, I don’t mind admitting that I had a little help creating this puzzle sheet – it was all created in-house at The Smile Parcel, as we wanted to give you a little something “to-do” while you’re enjoying your cuppa break. So, sit down, put your feet up and take your mind of everything else for a few minutes, and get puzzling!

 “Stronger Than You Think” –

I think there have been times over the last few weeks when all of us have wondered how we’re going to get through this difficult time. It’s definitely been (and continues to be) very challenging, in lots of ways, including, of course, our mental health. So, this postcard has been included in this parcel, to remind you that you are stronger than you think, I promise. Sometimes, we all need a moment, just to breathe and be reminded that, whatever is happening in our lives, we are strong, and we will get through this.

Smile Cards –

As always, there should be a couple of these little cards in your parcel, I’ve written one for you, and the blank one, is for you to write a short inspirational or positive message, and give to someone you know, or leave somewhere for a complete stranger to find – but this is of course optional, there’s absolutely no pressure to do this if you don’t want to.

Parcel Assistant –

Your Pom-Pom Parcel Assistant who helped us to pack your parcel this time was, Oliver!

 

Karen x

Mental Health Awareness Week

Posted on by thesmileparcel

I hope you’re all still keeping safe and well.

I wanted to do another quick little blog post today, as this week is Mental Health Awareness Week, hosted by the Mental Health Foundation – this year, the theme of their campaign is, kindness.

We hear a lot about how important it is to open up to others about how we’re feeling, and you may of noticed that ITV have been running a campaign for a while, telling us to share with each other and “Britain Get Talking”.

Being open about how we’re feeling can be difficult, especially if we’re not used to it, or it isn’t something that comes naturally to us.

Sometimes, it can be easier to start a conversation about something entirely different, until we feel more comfortable to share our emotions – you don’t have to be an expert, or a professional to talk, or to listen to others, it just needs time, courage and kindness to take that first step, it may not feel like much to simply ask “How are you?” but it’s often the smallest of things, that make the biggest differences.

You can find out more information regarding the work of the Mental Health Foundation here: https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/

 

Karen x

April 2020 – Parcel Contents

Posted on by thesmileparcel

Hello everyone!

Well, it’s the last day of April and it’s definitely been one of the strangest and most challenging April’s we’ve all ever seen…

Despite this, you’ve continued to support us and we are so grateful. We’ve loved hearing what a difference receiving your parcels is making to your lockdown experience – we hoped we could continue packing your parcels, as we know so many of you say you’re looking forward to them, more than ever, as a much-needed distraction and smile, at this difficult time.

Our April theme was “Keep Growing” and they contained a lovely splash of colourful Springtime!

April Contents:

Terracotta Pot –

Your parcel theme this month is “Keep Growing”, as we wanted to bring a welcome burst of Springtime to your home. Your first item is a very cute terracotta pot. We thought the daisy design was lovely, and it’s the perfect way to get you started on a little challenge we’ve set you, read on…

Bean, with Instructions –

We loved these beans as soon as we discovered them – for obvious reasons! We’ve included an instruction sheet with these too, to give you a head start, and explain more about them…and why they are “magic”. We’d love to see your photos as your beans begin to grow, so do send them over to us on our Facebook page.

Friends Photo Frame –

We’re all going through a very uncertain time at the moment, which probably means that sadly, we aren’t able to spend as much time with friends and family as we’d like to. The quote on this frame should be a little reminder that they are still there, even when we can’t see them every day, and remember, this unique situation will pass, although it’s difficult at the moment, it’s temporary and we will come through the other side, together.

Pink Gerbera –

It’s going to take a little while before you begin to see the beginnings of your bean plant, so we’ve included something that is already in full bloom – albeit artificial! Nevertheless, this pretty pink gerbera will add a spot of Springtime colour to any arrangement.

 “Keep Going” –

We thought this postcard was very apt at the moment, with all the uncertainties, it’s important to keep going – and I promise, it won’t always be this difficult. Postcard from “Colour Your Life Club”.

Smile Cards –

As always, there should be a couple of these little cards in your parcel, I’ve written one for you, and the blank one, is for you to write a short inspirational or positive message, and give to someone you know, or leave somewhere for a complete stranger to find – but this is of course optional, there’s absolutely no pressure to do this if you don’t want to.

Parcel Assistant –

Your pompom Parcel Assistant who helped (or hindered!) us with packing your parcel this month, was…Albert!

Karen x

 

 

Keep Going, It’s All Temporary…

Posted on by thesmileparcel

Hello!

It’s been a while, but as we enter the fourth week of Coronavirus lockdown, I think it’s time we had a positive mental health tip!

It’s definitely a very strange time, Spring is here and we should all be outside, enjoying the sunshine and looking at the beautiful scenery, as the Springtime colours burst into life…but sadly, at the moment, it’s essential that we all stay safe inside.

Spring is known as being a season of new life and growth and regardless of how old we are, or what we’ve been through, we are all growing, all of the time.

We may not be able to get outside to see a lot of it happening around us at the moment, and it may feel like life as sort-off, well, stopped, but while we are quarantined inside, it’s also a great opportunity to refocus on our goals, and make plans for what we’re going to do when the lockdown is lifted.

Personal growth is an important part of life, it gives us the chance to experience new things and learn about ourselves, about others, and the world around us.

We are always evolving as people, life is always changing, and we can choose to stay where we are, or we can continue to grow with it, keep learning, challenge ourselves and have new experiences.

Personal growth can be great for our overall well-being and mental health too, as it can make us more prepared and able to deal with the challenges that life will undoubtedly throw our way, and develop the skills needed to handle our emotions.

Sometimes, it can be difficult to keep fighting on and know which direction we should be heading, and that’s Okay, but if we want to make the most out of life, we need to learn to push through these obstacles and barriers.

Keep going and keep growing…it may be difficult at the moment, but remember it is all temporary, and we will come through the other side, together.

Karen x

 

March 2020 – Parcel Contents

Posted on by thesmileparcel

Hello…we’ve reached the end of another month, and a very long, strange week – Coronavirus lockdown has definitely brought us a few challenges, as it has to most of us.

We will endeavour to keep going and continue packing your parcels, as we know lots of you have said you’re looking forward to receiving them more than ever, as a welcome distraction and a mental health boost throughout all the constant changes, news updates and uncertainties – which is so lovely.

Our March theme was “Hopes & Dreams”, and they contained lots of colourful products to help the recipient keep those dreams alive…there was a noticeable rainbow vibe going on too!

March Contents:

Believe You Can… –

Your parcel theme for March is “Hopes & Dreams”, and we wanted to celebrate the beginning of Springtime, by making them bright and colourful. We love this quote “Believe you can, and you’re halfway there” as having a positive attitude towards achieving our dreams, can only help towards making them a reality! This print comes ready framed, perfect to hang on the wall, pop on a shelf, or even add to your desk at work.

Compact Mirror –

You’ll notice that there is a rainbow theme to your contents this month – starting with this super cute compact mirror.  We thought it was the perfect size to simply pop in a bag, or in the car, and have handy should an occasion arise…to turn that frown upside down!

Rainbow Notebook –

We just mentioned the rainbow theme running through your parcel, so we continued it with this A5 notebook – “Spread a little happiness wherever you go…”. We decided to include a notebook this month, as we believe, rather than keeping all our hopes and dreams in our head, writing them down, whether they are big or small, can help make them feel more real, and achievable.

“Yes I Can” –

At The Smile Parcel, we do love a button badge! They make great accessories to a bag or coat collar, and add a spot of colour at the same time. This one says “Yes I Can” and is a great reminder that, well, you can do, and be, anything you want to be – so go get ‘em!!

 Imagine The Possibilities –

Just imagine the possibilities, so many things to do, places to see, dreams to make come true, so what are you waiting for?!

Postcard from “Katie Abey Design”.

Smile Cards –

As always, there should be a couple of these little cards in your parcel, I’ve written one for you, and the blank one, is for you to write a short inspirational or positive message, and give to someone you know, or leave somewhere for a complete stranger to find – but this is of course optional, there’s absolutely no pressure to do this if you don’t want to.

Parcel Assistant –

Your *Parcel Assistant who helped us with packing your parcel this month, was…Harold!

Karen x

*Parcel Assistants are cheeky little pompom chaps who help (or hinder!) us with packing your monthly parcels!