Launch Your Box Podcast with Sarah Williams | Start, Launch, and Grow Your Subscription Box

Start Before You’re Ready: 4 Simple Steps to Begin Your Subscription Box with What You Have What’s holding you back from launching your subscription box? Is it because your website isn’t perfect, your audience feels too small, or your idea still seems messy? You’re not alone. So many future subscription box owners stall out waiting for the “right” time. The truth is there is no perfect time. You don’t need perfection, you need momentum. In this week’s Friday Fuel episode of the Launch Your Box Podcast, I’m breaking down four simple steps to help you start your subscription box with what you already have. No excuses. No waiting. Just real, imperfect action that builds clarity and confidence as you go. Step 1: Pick One Person to Serve Your box isn’t for everyone. Start by focusing on one specific person you want to serve. When you know exactly who your subscriber is, everything else – your content, your product choices, your messaging – becomes easier and more effective. Step 2: Use a Waitlist Page (Not a Website) You don’t need a full website to get started. A simple waitlist page can help you share who the box is for, what’s inside, and when it’s coming. You can set this up in hours, not weeks, and immediately start gathering interested people. Step 3: Document > Create Stop overthinking and start sharing. Your audience doesn’t want perfect—they want connection. Share behind-the-scenes decisions, product picks, or packaging ideas. Let them vote, give input, and feel like they’re part of the journey. This builds trust and excitement long before you launch. Step 4: Launch Messy You are allowed to launch before it looks perfect. Some of the most successful subscription box owners I coach launched with no logo, just a waitlist, and 10 subscribers. What mattered wasn’t perfection—it was getting started. Take Action Your “homework” from this Friday Fuel is simple: Pick your person. Build a waitlist. Share the behind-the-scenes. Launch messy. You are more ready than you think. But the only way forward is to take the next step. Not someday – today. Join me for this Friday Fuel episode of the Launch Your Box Podcast, where I’ll walk you through four simple steps to start your subscription box now. Yep, even before you think you’re ready. Join me in all the places:     Facebook Instagram Launch Your Box with Sarah Website  Are you ready for Launch Your Box? Our complete training program walks you step by step through how to start, launch, and grow your subscription box business. Join the waitlist today!

You can turn on the news and see what’s happening with our economy. Big box retailers are closing, small businesses are shutting their doors. Yet I’m here to tell you NOW is the right time to start a subscription box. Why?  The answer is simple.  People are buying. I see it every day in my own business. I saw it during my recent very successful launch. And I have the honor of working every day with subscription box owners who are launching and growing their subscription box businesses.  Adding a recurring revenue stream to your business adds a layer of stability, predictability, and security that most businesses don’t have.  The subscription box industry reached $22.7 billion by the end of 2021 and is expected to more than triple that number by 2027! Inside those numbers, the most popular types of subscriptions were replenishment subscriptions (think dog food or shaving supplies) and curation subscriptions (like my Monogram Box™). In a recent Wall Street Journal article, I read that 25% of online shoppers have subscribed to one or more subscription services to receive products on a recurring basis. 25% of shoppers! The article cited niche markets as one of the biggest areas of opportunity and emphasized the importance of providing high-quality experiences to retain subscribers.  To recap, this article showed me:  The subscription box market is still growing - rapidly. It’s time to get in!  ¼ of all online shippers have had a subscription - they understand this model.  It’s all about convenience and the experience - it’s not about the stuff.  The riches are in the niches. (I know you’ve heard me say that before!) So, why should you start a subscription right now?  You don’t have to constantly sell.  If you have a physical shop and don’t open, you don’t make any income. You’re able to create raving fans.  Your subscribers will be your biggest fans, buying almost anything you sell.  The product you are investing in is already sold.  Relieve the stress and pressure of buying products you might have to mark down later.  You get to create a box and experience you are passionate about.  Being passionate about your business helps you show up.  You get to love what you do and treat people to a carefully curated experience.  You get consistent revenue hitting your bank account.  It’s not too late to get in the game. Not by a long shot. Have you listened to episode 158 yet? In it, Launch Your Box member Bev of Bless-ed Be Boutique talks about how she retired, got bored, then six months later started her subscription box, selling out her first launch. Or episode 147 where you’ll meet Megan. She thought about starting a box for a long time. It wasn’t until she bought my book, One Box at a Time, and read it cover to cover in just a couple of days that she took action. Megan launched her subscription box three weeks later - and sold out!  Your time is now. Stop waiting, stop wishing, and start building a business you can make an income from.  Have you been sitting on your subscription box idea for too long? Join me for this episode for 5 reasons to get it started right now. It’s time to stop sitting on the sidelines and start taking action.   ⁠Episode 158 - It’s NEVER Too Late to Start⁠ ⁠Episode 147 - From Idea to Sold-Out Launch in 3 Weeks⁠ ⁠One Box at a Time⁠ Join me in all the places:  ⁠Facebook⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠Launch Your Box with Sarah Website⁠  Are you ready for ⁠Launch Your Box⁠? Our complete training program walks you step by step through how to start, launch, and grow your subscription box business. ⁠Join ⁠today!

Starting a product-based business, especially a subscription box, can feel overwhelming. There’s so much to learn, so much to do, and so many voices telling you the “right” way to start. Building a strong, sustainable business doesn’t come down to fancy strategies or big investments. It comes down to the small, steady habits you create from the very beginning. In this Friday Fuel episode of The Launch Your Box Podcast, I’m sharing the three habits I wish someone had told me about when I started my subscription box business. These habits don’t cost a dime, but they’ll help you build momentum, confidence, and subscribers. Habit #1: Consistency Over Perfection Perfection doesn’t get you paid. Consistency does. Too many business owners wait until things are perfect before they show up. But your audience isn’t looking for perfect. They’re looking for YOU. Consistency means: Posting on social three times a week Sending that weekly email (even if you’re not sure what to say) Talking about your product, even if no one seems to be listening yet Shipping your box on time, even if your insert card isn’t exactly what you wanted When you show up consistently, people start paying attention. You learn faster. You build confidence. Done and shipped is always better than perfect and never launched. Talking about your product looks like: Behind-the-scenes footage while packing boxes Sharing customer reviews or unboxing stories Going live to show what’s inside this month’s box Reminding your audience when the waitlist or doors are open Take Action: Open your Instagram Stories and talk about your product today. Keep it casual. Keep it personal. It doesn’t need to be perfect. Start by noticing: Which Instagram posts get the most engagement Which emails have the highest open or click rates How many people click on your waitlist link when you post it Tracking helps you stop wasting time on what’s not working, and it shows you what to double down on. Something as simple as jotting notes in a Google Doc can completely change the way you grow. Take Action: Pick one thing to track this week. Maybe it’s DM responses to a story, or clicks on a post. Write it down. You don’t need to wait until you have it all figured out to get started. Build these habits now, and your future self will thank you. In this Friday Fuel episode of the Launch Your Box Podcast, I’m sharing three simple habits that will help you stop overthinking, start showing up with confidence, and build the foundation for a subscription box business that grows month after month. Join me in all the places:     Facebook Instagram Launch Your Box with Sarah Website

What would an extra $1000 every month mean to you and your family?   Inflation. Waiting for a raise that might not happen. So many people are looking for ways to earn extra income right now. Today I’m talking about how a subscription box side hustle could bring an extra $1000 a month to your family - with only 50 subscribers.  A subscription box business can be a full-time business. But it doesn’t have to be. Many members of Launch Your Box have full-time, 9-5 style jobs and successful subscription box side hustles. They are nurse practitioners, teachers, certified registered nurse anesthetists, hair stylists, realtors, dentists, and more. They’re also subscription box owners who bring in additional income with their side hustles.  You can, too! Let’s do the math. If you have 50 subscribers and make $20 of profit per box, that’s an extra $1000 going into your bank account every month.  Of course, it’s going to take time and effort to get there. But following these six steps will have you well on your way to a successful subscription box side hustle.    Identify what you like or have an interest in.   Make sure it’s something you’re good at or have expertise in.  You have to be passionate about the subject matter or it won’t last!  Don’t try to be like anyone else - YOU will set your subscription box apart.     Ask yourself if there are other people around you with the same interest.    That’s the audience you need to build!  Where can you find more of those people?  Where do they hang out online?    Start a social media account(s) on the platforms where your people hang out.   Start sharing videos, posts, etc.  Ask your friends to like your page and share it with their friends.  Make sure you’re speaking the language of the person you are trying to attract. Messaging matters!    Run a giveaway.   Use Kingsumo (it’s FREE!)  The prize needs to be a box just like what you want to sell.  Capture emails for those who enter your giveaway and start building your email list.    Introduce the idea for the box to your audience.   Get their feedback and have them help you make decisions.   You want their buy-in to validate your concept.  Niche down if needed.    Set a launch date and a goal.    Create excitement and generate buzz.  Get your new audience excited about the upcoming box!  Engaging your audience is key at every stage of your subscription box journey, whether it’s your full-time gig or a side hustle. Continue to ask for feedback as you grow. Maintain an ongoing focus on audience building and keep serving your audience!  Join me for this episode as I talk about why a subscription box side hustle might be right for you and the six steps you need to take in order to make yours a success. The kind of success that means significant additional income - every month!  Important Links:  ⁠ 6 in 60 Workshop⁠ - Sarah’s Method for Curating 6 Subscription Boxes in 60 Minutes Join me in all the places:  ⁠Facebook⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠Launch Your Box with Sarah Website⁠    Are you ready for ⁠ Launch Your Box⁠? Our complete training program walks you step by step through how to start, launch, and grow your subscription box business. ⁠ Join the waitlist⁠ today!

Have you been stuck in “idea mode” for too long? Waiting for the perfect time, the perfect audience, or the perfect setup before you launch your subscription box? The truth is you already have what you need. You’re sitting on subscription box gold, and chances are, you don’t even realize it. You Don’t Need “More” to Get Started So many aspiring subscription box owners tell me: “I don’t have a big enough audience.” “I’m not good at tech.” “I don’t have a warehouse.” “I wouldn’t even know what to put in the box.” But here’s what I want you to hear loud and clear: you already have enough to get started. Products: Your bestsellers, your signature pieces, or items that reflect who you are can all go into your box. Audience: A small, engaged community is the perfect place to launch. Niche: Serving one person really well beats trying to serve everyone. Teachers, moms, nurses, faith-based buyers, busy women… your box can be their monthly solution. A successful subscription box isn’t about inventing something brand new. It’s about packaging what already works. A one-time sale resets you to zero the next day. A subscription sale happens again month after month. That’s recurring revenue. And it changes everything. With recurring revenue, you can: Plan ahead with confidence. Order smarter. Hire help. Pay yourself consistently. Inside Launch Your Box, I’ve watched entrepreneurs build six-figure businesses just by turning what they already had into a subscription model. If you’ve been waiting until your follower count grows, your website is perfect, or you’ve got the “right” space… stop. No one starts with all the things. Every successful subscription box owner I’ve worked with started small, messy, and unsure. The difference? They started. You’re sitting on gold. The only question is will you use it? It’s time to stop waiting and start building. Take a step forward this week: Gather your best products. Connect with the people who already follow you. Name the one person you’re serving. And if you want help turning your “gold” into real growth, come join me inside Launch Your Box. That’s where we take ideas and turn them into businesses that last. Take action today. Your subscription box gold is waiting. In this Friday Fuel episode of the Launch Your Box Podcast, I’m breaking down how to stop waiting, start recognizing what you already have, and finally build the subscription box that can bring you the recurring revenue you’ve been dreaming about. Join me in all the places:     Facebook Instagram Launch Your Box with Sarah Website  Are you ready for Launch Your Box? Our complete training program walks you step by step through how to start, launch, and grow your subscription box business. Join the waitlist today!

You work hard to curate, pack, and ship your subscription box each month. But when you check your bank account, the numbers don’t add up. Sound familiar? If you’ve been wondering why you’re selling more boxes but still struggling with cash flow or not paying yourself, it’s time to get serious about your pricing. So many subscription box owners start out underpricing, and it’s not always intentional. You want to be affordable. You don’t want to scare people away. You tell yourself you’ll raise prices later. Underpricing is costing you more than you think. When you forget about packaging, shipping materials, transaction fees, your time, and even damages or reships, your “$10 profit” can quickly become $6… or nothing at all. Month after month, that tight margin leaves you stressed, resentful, and unable to grow. Take Action: Audit your current price vs. your real total cost per box. Include everything: include tape, inserts, and your time. Most box owners price from the bottom up. They add up products, tack on shipping, and call it good. But that strategy sets you up to struggle. Instead, flip it around: start with your margin goals and build your box to fit. If you charge $50 per box, that means your total cost (products, packaging, shipping, fees, fulfillment) should be no more than $20-$27.50. Once you know your limit, you can source and curate accordingly. Take Action: Reverse-engineer your price. Decide your profit margin first, then set your product budget. Even if your pricing looks solid, hidden costs can eat away at your profits. Things like: Transaction fees (PayPal, Shopify, Stripe) Shipping materials (not just postage) Software and subscriptions (Klaviyo, Canva, Shopify) Labor, including YOURS Returns, damages, and inventory overages “Small” surprises and freebies These add up fast, especially as you grow. If you don’t account for them, your margin disappears. Take Action: Do a hidden cost audit this week. Write down every recurring business expense and calculate what it costs you per box. Realizing your price isn’t sustainable can feel scary. But raising prices doesn’t mean failure, it means leadership. Be transparent with your subscribers about the reason for the increase. Give them 30–45 days’ notice. Decide if you’ll grandfather in current subscribers. Consider a tiered option if needed. Yes, you may lose a few subscribers. But the ones who stay will actually be profitable, and that’s how you build a business that lasts. Profitable businesses don’t just change your life. They make it possible for you to keep serving your subscribers for years to come. Take Action: Choose your new price based on margin goals, set an effective date, and start your communication plan. You didn’t start your subscription box to break even. You started it to make an impact, create income, and build freedom. But that only happens if your pricing supports your profit.  Download the free Box Budget Worksheet and run your numbers today. This tool makes it simple to plug in your costs, your price, and see exactly where you stand. In this episode of the Launch Your Box Podcast, I’m walking you through the real cost of underpricing, how to set profit margin goals that actually work, and what to do if you need to raise your prices.  Download the Box Budget Worksheet here: https://www.launchyourboxwithsarah.com/my-box-budget Join me in all the places:     Facebook Instagram Launch Your Box with Sarah Website  Are you ready for Launch Your Box? Our complete training program walks you step by step through how to start, launch, and grow your subscription box business. Join the waitlist today!

When a subscriber opens your box, do they instantly know what to do with what’s inside? If the answer is “maybe” or “I’m not sure,” that’s a problem. Because when your box isn’t consumable, you’re leaving money – and retention – on the table. In this Friday Fuel episode of The Launch Your Box Podcast, I’m breaking down what it really means to create a consumable subscription box and why it matters so much for retention. Plus, I’ll share five practical ways you can make your box easier to use, more engaging, and more shareable. What Does “Consumable” Really Mean? When I say your box should be consumable, I don’t necessarily mean edible or disposable. Consumable means your box invites action. Subscribers know exactly what to do with what’s inside. They can use it, style it, or enjoy it right away. If it’s a craft box, can they see what the finished product should look like? If it’s a self-care box, do they know how to use the items included? If it’s a lifestyle box, can they imagine where the item fits into their daily life? Without those cues, subscribers are left guessing—and unused items quickly become clutter. Why Consumability Matters Making your box consumable isn’t just a nice idea. It’s a proven retention tool that:  Increases retention.When subscribers use what’s in your box, they don’t want to lose that experience by canceling. Builds momentum.Engagement with this month’s box creates anticipation for the next one. Sparks word-of-mouth.People love to share what they’re using – and loving. Reduces “too much stuff” churn.Boxes don’t feel like clutter when everything inside is being used and enjoyed. 5 Ways to Make Your Box More Consumable Make sure your subscription box gets used, not stuck on a shelf by:  Including a visual outcome.Show the finished project, styled look, or end result—whether in your insert, your group, or on social media. Offering a simple, actionable insert.A “Start Here” card or checklist keeps subscribers from feeling lost. Tying each item to a moment.Suggest when or how to use it: “Style this for your next brunch date” or “Keep this at your desk for a mid-day boost.” Removing friction.Label what needs labeling and explain anything that might cause confusion. Being the influencer.Don’t just curate. Model the experience. Show up using your own products on social media, in your group, or in emails. Before you send out your next box, run it through this quick audit: If I gave this to a stranger, would they know what to do with it? Can my subscriber use at least 70% of this box within 7 days? Have I clearly shown or explained how to use each item? Have I included visual or verbal cues that invite action? Have I modeled the experience myself in photos, videos, or inserts? If you can’t answer “yes” to at least four of those questions, you have an opportunity to level up before shipping day. A consumable box is a retention strategy. If subscribers use the items in your box, they’ll want more. If they don’t, they’ll forget it. Audit your next box by asking yourself these five questions and watch how much more your subscribers engage. Because the more they consume your box, the longer they’ll stick around. Join me in all the places:     Facebook Instagram Launch Your Box with Sarah Website  The 5-Question Consumability AuditYour Action StepAre you ready for Launch Your Box? Our complete training program walks you step by step through how to start, launch, and grow your subscription box business. Join the waitlist today!

If you’ve been in business for any length of time, you’ve probably felt it: the sales rollercoaster. One month you’re celebrating record sales, the next you’re staring at your numbers wondering how to make ends meet. It’s exhausting. And it’s not the way you want to run your business long term. In this episode of the Launch Your Box Podcast, I’m teaming up with Susan Bradley of the Social Sales Girls , an expert in brand collaborations, to share two powerful strategies that can help you finally step off that rollercoaster for good. We’re talking about: Why consistency matters when it comes to sales and cash flow. Two proven pathways to consistency: growing your audience through collaborations and keeping customers buying through recurring revenue. The biggest mistakes to avoid when starting with either strategy. Simple, actionable tips you can take this week to start seeing results. Why Consistency Matters Most product-based business owners know the highs and lows all too well. Big spikes during launches or holidays, followed by long slow stretches. That’s stressful and unpredictable. Consistency is what allows you to grow and scale. Consistent visibility brings in new customers, while recurring revenue keeps your cash flow steady month after month. You need both for a strong, sustainable business. Pathway 1: Brand Collaborations When you collaborate, you don’t just expand your reach. You also build credibility by being introduced through someone your audience already trusts. Take Action: Identify three businesses with a similar audience but a different product. Brainstorm a simple joint promotion to share with both audiences. Pathway 2: Recurring Revenue with Subscription Boxes Subscription boxes stabilize your revenue and keep customers coming back. A subscription box turns a one-time purchase into an ongoing relationship, giving your business the consistency you’ve been missing. This strategy has transformed so many businesses, including mine. Predictable income means you can plan better, hire smarter, and focus on growth instead of chasing the next sale. Take Action: Start with a product your customers already buy regularly and brainstorm how you could offer it in a subscription format. Mistakes to Avoid Even the best strategies can backfire if you approach them the wrong way. Collaboration Mistakes: Picking partners for their product instead of the audience they serve. Not tracking and measuring results to see what’s really working. Subscription Mistakes: Overcomplicating your first box instead of starting simple. Underpricing instead of building healthy profit margins from the start. Ready to Go Deeper? Susan is offering a Brand Collab Bootcamp where she’ll teach you how to find the right partners, pitch confidently, and create win-win promotions. And if you’re ready to turn your products into predictable recurring revenue, join me for Subscription Box Coaching Week. I’ll help you outline what your subscription box could look like, how to position it, and how to create reliable monthly income. Offers mentioned:   Brand Collab Bootcamp - starting September 8th  Subscription Box Week - starting September 28th  Where to find Susan:  Brand Collab Bootcamp Social Sales Girls on Facebook The Social Sales Girls on Instagram The Social Sales Girls Website  Join me in all the places:     Facebook Instagram Launch Your Box with Sarah Website  Are you ready for Launch Your Box? Our complete training program walks you step by step through how to start, launch, and grow your subscription box business. Join the waitlist today!

Stop Blaming the Algorithm – Your Content Might Be the Real Problem If your social media posts are falling flat, it’s time for a wake-up call. It’s not the platform. It’s not the algorithm. It’s you. In this Friday Fuel episode of The Launch Your Box Podcast, I’m breaking down why your content isn’t getting the engagement you want. And exactly how to fix it. This isn’t about posting more, checking boxes, or chasing trends. It’s about creating intentional, connection-driven content that actually gets noticed. Why Consistency Isn’t Enough I’ve been there. Cranking out three posts a day just to stay “consistent” and getting nothing but crickets. Social media isn’t a chore list. It’s your marketing. And lazy marketing gets lazy results. I challenge you to take a hard look at your last 30–60 days of posts. Which ones actually got likes, comments, shares, or messages? What made them different? Were they personal? Behind the scenes? Did they have your face in them? If you’re posting more “deadweight” content than connection-building content, you’re holding your own reach hostage. Quality Over Quantity Wins Every Time Three low-effort posts a day won’t grow your subscription box business. One thoughtful, engaging post will. Here’s what to share instead: A great customer message A real, messy behind-the-scenes moment Something genuine about your product, your why, or your community No more Canva flyers filling your feed. No more “Here’s what’s in the box” and disappearing until next month. A Simple Engagement Hack Don’t bulk reply to comments. Spread your responses out over a few days to push the post back into your followers’ feeds and extend its reach. You’re not shadowbanned. Your audience isn’t broken. You just haven’t given them enough reason to engage. When you post with intention, people respond. And sales follow. Your challenge this week: This week, post less. But post better. Audit your content, find your winners, and create one real post that makes your audience stop, feel something, and connect with you. Join me for this episode to learn how to fix your social media content and start building the kind of engagement that leads to sales. Join me in all the places:     Facebook Instagram Launch Your Box with Sarah Website  Are you ready for Launch Your Box? Our complete training program walks you step by step through how to start, launch, and grow your subscription box business. Join the waitlist today!

If you’ve been “almost ready” to launch your subscription box for months – or even years – this episode of the Launch Your Box Podcast is for you. I get it. I spent 18 months sitting on my own subscription box idea, watching others launch, endlessly researching, tweaking, and dreaming. I thought I was preparing. But when I finally launched, I learned more in that first month of taking action than I had in all those months of planning. The truth? All that research, note-taking, and idea-tweaking feels productive… But it’s keeping you from what you really want: customers, sales, and momentum. In this episode of the Launch Your Box Podcast, I’ll help you break out of perpetual learning mode so you can finally start selling your subscription box.  How to Tell If You’re Stuck in Perpetual Research Mode Some of the biggest indicators include: You’ve gathered endless information but haven’t acted on it. Your launch date keeps moving. You redesign your branding more than you talk to potential customers. You’re constantly switching your box idea after seeing others’ boxes. You’re waiting for the “perfect” product before you launch. Staying in research mode feels safe. There’s no risk of rejection, no hard deadlines, and no uncomfortable decisions. But every week you stay there is a week without customers, feedback, or income. The Hidden Reasons You Haven’t Launched Your Subscription Box Being “not ready” is rarely about needing more time or more information. Often, what’s really keeping you stuck is one of these: Fear of Failure – Worrying no one will buy or that people won’t like your box. Fear of Success – Wondering how you’ll handle it if things actually take off. Perfectionism – Believing everything must be flawless before you launch. Comparison – Feeling behind because your box doesn’t look like someone else’s Year 5 version. Comfort Zone + Lack of Clarity – Staying in familiar territory instead of testing your idea with real people. In the episode, I share stories from my own business journey and why messy action is always better than perfect inaction. You can’t research your way into a successful subscription box business. You have to sell your way there. Imagine 30 days from now: your first boxes shipped, real customer feedback in hand, and a clear plan for month two. That only happens if you start now. Stop waiting for perfect. Start building the business you’ve been dreaming about. Join me in all the places:     Facebook Instagram Launch Your Box with Sarah Website  Are you ready for Launch Your Box? Our complete training program walks you step by step through how to start, launch, and grow your subscription box business. Join the waitlist today!

Are you selling a product or a promise? You’ve poured your heart into your subscription box. You’ve found the perfect items, created beautiful packaging, and started showing up consistently online. But the subscribers aren’t coming. Or people buy once, but they don’t come back. Sound familiar? Frustrated and wondering what you’re doing wrong? This might be the missing piece: The problem isn’t that your product isn’t great. It’s that your audience doesn’t understand why they should subscribe. In this Friday Fuel episode of The Launch Your Box Podcast, I’m breaking down the difference between selling a one-time product and offering a subscription people actually want to stick with. A subscription is a relationship, not a transaction When someone buys a product, they’re saying, “This looks good.” When someone subscribes, they’re saying, “I trust you to keep delivering value.” That means your subscription box offer needs more than great items. It needs a clear, compelling reason to subscribe. And to stay subscribed. Real Example: A Coloring Book Box That Transformed Inside Launch Your Box, I worked with Chantal, who sells adult coloring books. She had custom designs, thoughtful themes, beautiful packaging… But she wasn’t getting the sales she wanted. So I asked her one question: “Why would someone subscribe to this rather than just buy a coloring book on Amazon when they feel like it?” That one question changed everything. Together, we identified ways to create value beyond the book: Exclusive monthly themes A private Facebook group for connection Calming playlists and printable bonuses Encouragement to make coloring a monthly habit Suddenly, Chantal wasn’t just selling a product. She was offering stress relief, creative rhythm, and community. And her audience felt that difference. This Week’s Action Step Write down 3 reasons your box is better as a subscription.  Ask yourself: What do subscribers get that one-time buyers don’t? How is a subscriber’s life better after 3 months? What promise can I confidently deliver on? Because when your benefit is clear, your offer becomes magnetic. Your copy improves.Your conversions increase.Your subscribers stay longer. Ready to rethink how you're positioning your box? This episode will walk you through real examples, simple shifts, and practical questions to help you clarify the benefit of your subscription – and make your offer irresistible. Join me in all the places:     Facebook Instagram Launch Your Box with Sarah Website  Are you ready for Launch Your Box? Our complete training program walks you step by step through how to start, launch, and grow your subscription box business. Join the waitlist today!

If you want a strong Q4, your work starts now. Too many subscription box owners treat the 4th quarter like it starts in November. But if you want October sales to be strong – and if you want to ride that momentum straight through the holiday season – your prep needs to start in late summer. In this episode of The Launch Your Box Podcast, I’m walking you through four things you can do right now to set yourself up for your best Q4 yet. Whether you’re running a subscription box, selling one-time products, or offering holiday gift subscriptions, these steps will help you plan, promote, and sell with confidence, instead of scrambling. And because I know this can feel overwhelming, I’m also inviting you to join me inside my Ultimate Q4 Planning Workshop, where we’ll spend one focused day mapping out your entire quarter, together. Q4 is the biggest sales quarter of the year. Some small business owners make half their annual revenue between October and December. But here’s the mistake most people make: They think Q4 starts when they post their first Black Friday sale. By that point, you’ve already missed valuable weeks of visibility and momentum.  The truth? Q4 success starts at the end of Q3. Before October arrives, you should already know: Which promotions you’ll run and when What products (and how much) you’ll need to make them happen How you’ll market each offer If you can’t answer those questions yet, you’re already behind. Step 1: Plan Your Q4 Promotions Now Start with the end in mind when you answer the question, “What are you going to sell?” Step 2: Grow Your Following + Your Email List You need both visibility and ownership heading into Q4. Step 3: Warm Up Your Audience Don’t wait until you’re ready to sell to show up. If someone joins your list in August and doesn’t hear from you until November, they’re not likely to buy. Warm-up content builds trust and anticipation so that when you do make your offer, people are ready to say yes. Step 4: Keep Your Plan Simple, But Real You don’t need to create every caption, email, or ad today. But you do need to know what you’re promoting, when you’ll promote it, and how you’ll promote it. That’s exactly what we’ll do together in my Ultimate Q4 Planning Workshop. In one day, we’ll: Plan your promotions Map your marketing calendar Identify the emails and posts you’ll need Forecast inventory and shipping timelines You’ll walk away with a complete Q4 roadmap. Ready to execute, no scrambling required. If Q4 usually feels like chaos, this episode will show you how to change that. Listen in for practical steps you can take this week to get ahead. And find out how to join me for the Ultimate Q4 Planning Workshop, so you can head into the busiest season of the year feeling confident and in control. Join the Ultimate Q4 Planning Workshop: September 5, 2025 – Live on Zoom.  Join me in all the places:     Facebook Instagram Launch Your Box with Sarah Website  Are you ready for Launch Your Box? Our complete training program walks you step by step through how to start, launch, and grow your subscription box business. Join the waitlist today!

Think Facebook ads are too expensive, too complicated, or too risky? You’re not alone. I thought the same thing for a long time. But 18 months ago, I made a decision: I was going to learn how to run ads myself. No more guessing, no more outsourcing without understanding. Just simple strategies I could test, tweak, and teach. In this week’s Friday Fuel episode, I’m sharing the three types of ads every subscription box owner should be running. Yes, even if you’re brand new. You don’t need a big budget. You don’t need expert status. You just need to get started. 1 - Page Like Ads Start here if you’re building your audience (and you should always be building your audience). Page Like Ads are low-cost, low-risk, and easy to run. I always have one of these running in the background. What to include: A photo of you and your product Simple copy that introduces you to your ideal subscriber Meta’s Advantage+ audience to find more people like your current followers Set your budget at $5–$10/day and watch your page grow. 2. Opt-In Ads If you’re not building your email list, it’s time to start. Opt-in ads help you grow a warm audience before launch day. Need ideas? I’ve used downloadable phone wallpapers, checklists, and printables. Anything your audience would find valuable and fun can make an effective opt-in. Make sure you have: A clear landing page A freebie that fits your niche A message that invites them to grab their free gift These subscribers are more likely to buy from you when launch time comes. 3. Sales Ads These ads introduce your offer to the world. Whether you’re selling a one-time box or your monthly subscription, this is where you go all in. Your goal is to get the sale. Use: Behind-the-scenes packing videos Customer unboxings Short product demos or strong lifestyle photos Start with $10/day and scale up as your results improve. I recommend running these alongside page like and opt-in ads for best results. Tips for Effective Facebook Ads Keep your captions short with ONE call to action Use Canva for branded graphics Don’t overthink targeting. Let Meta help Give your ad 3–4 days before making changes Use ChatGPT to help with hooks and headlines! Your Action Step Pick ONE ad and run it this week. Want to build your audience? Try a Page Like ad Want more email subscribers? Try an Opt-In ad Ready to sell? Try a Sales ad It’s not about being perfect. It’s about getting started. The only ad that doesn’t work? The one you never run. Need help deciding which type of Facebook ad to try first? Tune in to the full episode for all the details. Join me in all the places:     Facebook Instagram Launch Your Box with Sarah Website  Are you ready for Launch Your Box? Our complete training program walks you step by step through how to start, launch, and grow your subscription box business. Join the waitlist today!

I’m excited to bring you this interview with my good friend Cindy Manly of Art Shattered. Cindy has a successful membership with over 1200 members and has been selling one-time art supply kits for the past few years. If you’ve been selling one-time boxes and are wondering if a subscription is for you, you’re going to want to hear Cindy’s story!  Cindy is an artist who specializes in glass and resin art. She makes beautiful, unique pieces of 3-D art that her followers LOVE. She also teaches her followers how to create their own art through her online membership. Cindy started her membership in 2018 and now has over 1200 members.  When some of Cindy’s members started asking where to get the supplies they needed to create the pieces she was teaching - and others mentioned they were having a hard time finding the right supplies - she started selling one-off kits. Every time she offered up a kit for sale, she sold out. When she offered kits during her membership pre-launch, she sold 800 full kits and 500 partial kits.  Cindy and I have been friends for several years and I’ve been telling her almost that long that she needed to start a subscription box. She resisted the idea for a long time. But after selling 1300 kits during her pre-launch, she was convinced.  Armed with the launch plan she learned inside Launch Your Box and as a member of my Mastermind and backed by her audience of raving fans, Cindy launched her subscription box in June.  The result? She sold out of all 500 available spots in her quarterly subscription! And she used four strategies to do it.  Urgency - Cindy opened the subscription only to her online membership for 48 hours.  Waitlist - Cindy then opened up to members of the waitlist she’d been growing for three weeks leading up to the launch.  Early Bird Bonus Engaging her audience - on her last LIVE, Cindy added names on post-it notes to her wall of subscribers.  Cindy originally wanted to only plan for 200 boxes, but I convinced her she could absolutely do more. And she did! She’s also an absolute genius who packed her subscription boxes ahead of time and had them ready to ship BEFORE she launched! That meant when she was exhausted from her launch - and if you do it right, you will be exhausted - Cindy headed straight to the beach!  500 subscribers means additional financial security for Cindy, the satisfaction of knowing she is serving her loyal audience in yet another way, and steady employment for her team. I can’t wait to watch Cindy’s subscription box continue to grow.  Join me for this episode as Cindy walks us through her journey of moving from offering one-time boxes to launching a subscription box and welcoming 500 new subscribers.   Find and follow Cindy:  ⁠Art Shattered on Instagram⁠ ⁠Art Shattered on Facebook ⁠ ⁠Art Shattered Website⁠ Join me in all the places:  ⁠Facebook⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠Launch Your Box with Sarah Website⁠  Are you ready for ⁠Launch Your Box⁠? Our complete training program walks you step by step through how to start, launch, and grow your subscription box business. ⁠Join ⁠today!

Should your subscription box be available all the time or only during specific launch windows? It’s one of the most common questions I get inside Launch Your Box. But here’s the truth… It’s not about whether your cart is open or closed. It’s about whether you’re giving people a reason to subscribe right now. In this week’s Friday Fuel episode of The Launch Your Box Podcast, I’m breaking down the difference between open cart and closed cart subscription models, the pros and cons of each, and what really moves the needle when it’s time to grow your subscriber count. I also share a simple strategy that works with either model to create urgency and excitement: the launch bonus with examples you can use without spending a fortune. Open Cart Subscription Model Your subscription box is always live, and subscribers can join at any time. It’s simple and steady, but it lacks urgency. You have to create your own momentum. Closed Cart Subscription Model You open the cart for a limited window a few times a year. It builds buzz and urgency, but only if you show up and promote it well. Both work. I’ve used both. But the most important thing? YOU are the one who creates urgency. It’s about how you talk about your box, how you show up, and whether or not you give people a reason to say yes this week. When I launched my Monogram Box™ in April, I offered a free monogram tee to anyone who subscribed that week. That bonus helped me sell out 432 spots. The bonus worked again during my July teacher launch, when I offered a personalized “Teacher” tee to new subscribers. That simple extra created urgency and excitement. And brought in results. Whether your cart is open or closed, a bonus can help you say, “This week matters. Here’s why.” Try one of these subscriber-worthy extras: An exclusive item they can’t get anywhere else A personalized detail like a name or monogram A small gift that matches your box’s theme A digital download or printable Leftover inventory from a previous month Your bonus doesn’t have to be expensive—it just has to be timely and thoughtful. Your Friday Fuel Action Step Map out your next launch bonus. Ask yourself: What could I offer that feels special and simple? When will I offer it and when will it end? How will I promote it through email, social, and your website? Write it down. Plug it into your calendar. And remember: when you’re excited, your audience will be, too. Join me for this episode and find out why it’s not about whether your subscription box is open or closed – it’s about getting people to say yes. Join me in all the places:     Facebook Instagram Launch Your Box with Sarah Website  Are you ready for Launch Your Box? Our complete training program walks you step by step through how to start, launch, and grow your subscription box business. Join the waitlist today!

“Don’t give up. Just keep moving forward.” - Alexia Haubert After making it to the top 1% of all Etsy sellers in the wedding category - the top 1%! - Lexie was on top of her game. Then came a global pandemic that shut down the wedding industry and Lexie’s business.  Lexie had to pivot and struggled to grow her business for a long time before recently reaching a big milestone. In this episode, Lexie’s story will inspire you to keep going as you work toward your business goals.  When the wedding industry slowly started coming back, Lexie introduced The Monogrammed Bride subscription box and started building her audience from scratch. She stayed consistent and continued to show up even though she saw very little in the way of results for a long time.  When Lexie and I first talked, after a disappointing launch, I was surprised to see she had done everything I teach. She was doing all the things and she was doing them well. But she wasn’t seeing results. We brainstormed and strategized, and Lexie continued working hard.  And just recently - after seeing consistently steady growth for the last six months - Lexie hit her long-standing goal of 100 subscribers! So what did she do differently these past six months?    She built a community - giving her subscribers something to feel they were a part of.  She posted stories on Instagram - consistently.  She created engaging posts featuring pictures of subscribers and their boxes. She started going LIVE much more consistently and, when she did, started building an audience who showed up for her and engaged with her during the LIVEs.  She followed her subscribers back and engaged with their posts.  She did tons of short video, finding cracks of time while sitting in her car waiting to pick her kids up from practices.   She sent boxes to a small number of influencers from TikTok and Instagram - people with 1000-2000 followers who want to grow as influencers.  She ran Facebook Ads - and has gotten really dialed in which drives the cost per engagement way down. Lexie analyzes her Ads every week and makes changes as needed.  While we were talking, Lexie got subscriber #112! This growth in her business - this regular, recurring revenue - has lessened the financial stress Lexie has felt for the past couple of years. She is able to breathe and plan for even more subscribers as her business continues to grow.  Lexie’s message for anyone who feels overwhelmed or discouraged by the challenges they’re facing in building their business? Don’t give up. Just keep moving forward.  Join me for this episode and get inspired by Lexie’s determination to just keep going and never give up on her dream on her way to reaching and passing her goal of 100 subscribers.  Find and follow Lexie:  ⁠Crafty Lady Boutique on Instagram⁠ ⁠Crafty Lady Boutique on Facebook⁠  ⁠Crafty Lady Boutique Website⁠ Join me in all the places:  ⁠Facebook⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠Launch Your Box with Sarah Website⁠  Are you ready for ⁠Launch Your Box⁠? Our complete training program walks you step by step through how to start, launch, and grow your subscription box business. ⁠Join ⁠today!  Get 30 Days FREE when you switch to Subbly: ⁠https://join.subbly.co/sarah-williams⁠  Use code LAUNCHWELCOME at ⁠https://www.boxup.com/⁠ to get 10% off your first order

If your subscription box planning feels chaotic, rushed, or downright stressful, this episode is for you. I know what it’s like to be stuck in a cycle of packing this month’s box while still scrambling to figure out what’s going in next month’s. But it doesn’t have to be that way. In this Friday Fuel episode of The Launch Your Box Podcast, I’m sharing how I went from winging it to planning six months of boxes in just one hour. And how you can do it too. You’ll hear the story behind my 6 in 60 Workshop, why this system works, and five simple habits that will help you plan ahead and curate with confidence. Five actionable steps to help you plan and curate your subscription boxes: • Theme First – Map out 6 clear themes or anchor ideas. • Product Partners – Make a running list of your favorite wholesalers, handmade makers, or past vendors. Revisit this list every time you plan. • Budget Guardrails – Know what you can spend per box – product cost, shipping, packaging – so you’re not scrambling later. • Lead Times Matter – Give yourself 8–12 weeks to order. Custom items take longer. • Marketing – Think about how you’ll tease the box. Each theme should have a built-in story you can share on social media. Join me for this episode and learn how planning ahead makes everything feel easier – from sourcing products and teasing themes to delivering a box your subscribers can’t stop talking about. Ready to plan your next 6 boxes in just 60 minutes? Grab the free replay of the 6 in 60 Workshop and start curating with confidence: 6in60workshop.com You don’t have to wing it anymore. Let’s plan with purpose. Join me in all the places:     Facebook Instagram Launch Your Box with Sarah Website  Are you ready for Launch Your Box? Our complete training program walks you step by step through how to start, launch, and grow your subscription box business. Join the waitlist today!

Have you ever felt stuck trying to get seen? Whether you’re just starting to build your audience so you can launch your subscription box or you’re deep into scaling your business, this episode is for you. I sat down with Brooke Riley of Re-Fabbed with Brooke Riley and Re-Fabbed Boutique. She shared how she built two successful businesses and a thriving community by showing up authentically, consistently, and imperfectly. Brooke started her business 10 years ago with a DIY blog and built a Facebook audience from scratch to send readers to her blog. When Facebook LIVE first rolled out, she jumped right in and discovered how powerful it was to connect with people in real time. Her blog views skyrocketed. Her income grew. And when her audience started asking what she was wearing on her LIVEs and where they could get it, Brooke paid attention. That question planted the seed for what would become the Re-fabbed Boutique, which she’s grown into a multi-million dollar business over the past 7 years. More than just a boutique, Brooke has built a community. And she believes that connection – built by showing up as her true self and serving her audience – is what sets her apart. We covered so much in this conversation, including: • Why consistency is everything when building your audience, even when it feels like no one is watching. • How showing up authentically helps your people connect with you. • The danger of waiting for everything to be “perfect” before you start. • How personal content builds trust and deepens relationships with your audience. • Why your actions, not just your words, determine your success. When I asked Brooke, coach-to-coach, about the biggest mistake business owners make, her answer was simple and powerful: They wait. They think everything has to be perfect before they take the first step. They stay stuck in a compulsive learning mode instead of doing. If you’ve been holding back, Brooke and I challenge you to start today. Show up. Build trust. Be consistent. And get seen, organically. Because if you want to launch your subscription box or grow your business, your audience needs to know you. Brooke left us with one final thought. And in true Brooke Riley fashion, she didn’t sugarcoat it: If you want this, your actions need to show it. You either want it or you don’t. Do the work. Your audience is waiting, but you have to put yourself out there to be found. What You’ll Learn in This Episode • Why consistency and authenticity matter more than perfection • How to build trust and connection with your audience •. What it really takes to launch and grow, even when it feels scary • Why your audience will show up for you when you show up for them Join me for this episode if you’re ready to stop hiding and start building the business you’ve been dreaming about. Come away inspired to take the first step and keep going. Find and follow Brooke:  Re-Fabbed on Facebook  Re-Fabbed Boutique on Facebook Re-Fabbed Website Re-Fabbed Boutique Website Join me in all the places:     Facebook Instagram Launch Your Box with Sarah Website  Are you ready for Launch Your Box? Our complete training program walks you step by step through how to start, launch, and grow your subscription box business. Join the waitlist today!

You picked a date to launch your subscription box. You told your audience. But are you actually ready to launch? Here’s the hard truth: a launch date without a plan is just a number on the calendar. And hope is not a marketing strategy. In this episode of Friday Fuel, I break down the biggest mistakes subscription box owners make when it comes to launching and what you need to do instead. Because a successful launch is about so much more than just the day your cart opens. It’s about everything you do before that to warm up your audience, build momentum, and create excitement. What you’ll learn in this episode: Why picking a date isn’t the same as planning a launch. The one month I always avoid launching in — and why. What a real launch runway includes (and when to start). Five signs you’re not ready to launch yet. How to check if your launch is on track – or if you need to delay with purpose. Take Action Don’t launch to crickets. This week, audit your launch plan and ask yourself: Do I have a waitlist? Is my audience warm and engaged? Is my sales page ready? Do I feel confident – or rushed? If you’re missing pieces, take the time to fix them now. You only get one chance to make a strong first impression. Make sure you’re ready. And if you want the full roadmap to launching your subscription box the right way? It’s all inside Launch Your Box. Join me, and let’s build your launch plan together. Join me in all the places:     Facebook Instagram Launch Your Box with Sarah Website  Are you ready for Launch Your Box? Our complete training program walks you step by step through how to start, launch, and grow your subscription box business. Join the waitlist today!

One hundred months of subscription boxes. It feels almost unreal to say that out loud. That I’ve curated 100 different subscription boxes over the past 8 ½ years. And yet… here we are. When I look back at where it started, I can still picture myself stressing over every tiny detail of that very first box. My “Lilly Pulitzer-inspired” box, packed in a plain brown craft box I stamped by hand. During the early days of my subscription box, more always felt better, so I just kept adding things, forgetting all about profit margins, and hoping my customers would be happy. Fast forward to today? My process, my confidence, and my profit margins look completely different. That first year, I thought adding more products would make the box feel more valuable. But over time, I learned the magic is in the experience. The way the boxes make my subscribers feel. Instead of thinking that more is better, I choose one wow-worthy item and curate the rest of the box around it. And the packaging? Let’s just say we’ve come a long way from those stamped boxes and logo tape. When I reached 100 subscribers, I finally ordered my first custom boxes in my signature turquoise. A few years later, we gave The Monogram Box™ packaging the full glow-up it deserved. Out of those 100 boxes, some stand out more than others, for better and for worse. There was the box where FedEx left their truck door open, and my boxes ended up all over a busy road in my town (yes, really). The “Oh My Gourd” box that I thought was funny, but many of my subscribers didn’t. Lesson learned - give them what they want! And the custom-designed green Christmas sweatshirt that subscribers still talk about – and still wear – years later. Every one of those moments taught me something. How to plan further ahead. How to problem solve and pivot. How to listen (really listen) to what my subscribers wanted, even when it wasn’t what I expected. Today, we plan boxes 6–8 months in advance. I still start with one main item and build the rest of the box around it. And yes , I stopped packing boxes myself after about 45 of them when we moved into the Warehouse (the team kindly told me I was… in the way). And my favorite hack? An automatic paper folder for packing slips. A little thing, but it saves so much time every month. You’d think by our 100th box I could predict exactly what my subscribers will love. But they still surprise me. Sometimes it’s the smallest detail that gets the biggest reaction. So what keeps them coming back month after month? The seasonality. Their style needs change, so the box does too. The surprise. That feeling of opening something unexpected every month. The connection. They know I care about their feedback and use it to make each box better. If you’re sitting at box #3 or #33 right now and wondering if you’re on the right track, let me tell you: you are. And if you haven’t launched yet, this advice is for you, too! Consistency matters more than perfection. Growth happens when you keep showing up, even when no one’s cheering you on yet. And more than anything, remember: building a sustainable subscription box business is a long game. One box at a time, you’re building something bigger than you can see right now. So keep going. Your 100th box is closer than you think. Join me for this episode as I share the story of my first 100 subscription boxes and how the lessons they’ve taught me can help you reach your 100th box and beyond. Join me in all the places:     Facebook Instagram Launch Your Box with Sarah Website  Are you ready for Launch Your Box? Our complete training program walks you step by step through how to start, launch, and grow your subscription box business. Join the waitlist today!