First Impressions is a series that (re)introduces and reviews new brands to My Subscription Addiction, drawing from readers' requests for an insider's first look. Interested in seeing more reviews from this brand, or have another box in mind that you'd like to see reviewed? Let us know in the comments.
UNDISCOVERED Artisan Box is a quarterly subscription service offered by NOVICA that showcases a curated selection of authentic artisan treasures from a different region worldwide. Each box has a $200+ value and you can fully customize it or let NOVICA surprise you. You'll discover one-of-a-kind products and insider tips as you explore a new region each time led by the local Artisan Guide.
Subscribers will gain access to NOVICA's UNDISCOVERED Add-On Market and will enjoy significant discounts on every item they purchase. This virtual international marketplace is filled with hidden gems and offers an incredible way to explore and shop for various arts and cultures of the world.
The Premium box that I received costs $59.99 each quarter and shipping starts at $3.99 per box.
This review is of the Benefactor UNDISCOVERED Artisan Box by NOVICA. This box features 5 handmade creations per season, including one valued at over $50.
This box was sent to us at no cost for review. (Check out our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we review boxes).
Why I Chose this Box
Now that I spend the majority of my time as a SAHM, I decided it was time to go full homemaker mode. However, there's a slight issue - I'm an awful decorator! You'd think I'd develop some sense of style after being here for 3 decades, but apparently not. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
However, I've got a pretty good idea as to why this is. You see, I've pretty much been a minimalist my whole life. You could say it's because I'm cheap, maybe even lazy. However, I think it's mostly due to struggling with perfectionism in other areas of my life and having to do things right - every day, every hour, for everything.
Because of this amazing attribute, I experience decision fatigue from literally the simplest things. As such, decorating couldn't just be this fun hobby that brought me tidbits of joy each time I shopped. Instead, I used to perceive it as a major task that required all of my time and energy. And who wants to live like that? It was way easier to just pretend the whole concept of a warm, inviting home graced with beauty didn't exist.
However, there comes a time when you can no longer pretend that your notoriously empty countertops and white walls don't look dull and depressing. That time is motherhood (IYKYK). It's the breaking point at which you transform into the ultimate creator and problem solver. For me, this meant finally overcoming my dread and anxiety over decorating.
So, I hopped online and did some digging to discover a subscription service that could help me in this area. After exploring a bunch of home decor boxes, UNDISCOVERED Artisan caught my eye. For one, they let you fully customize your box. Two, you get artisan goods from across the world. And three, it's a quarterly subscription box so it doesn't overwhelm you with a ton of products each month.
What's Inside The Box
Artisan Guidebook
1 of 3
The Spring 2024 Artisan Box took me on a journey to the Silk Road in Central Asia. More specifically, to Uzbekistan. The guidebook introduced me to my artisan guides, Gulnora and Gulbahor Chorieva. They shared the rich history surrounding the sumptuous embroideries, resplendent rugs, and other unique art forms that have helped to preserve centuries-old textile traditions. It also provided me with a recipe for Kumiss which is an ancient beverage savored by nomads.
"Blue Paisley" Handkerchief by Margilan Silk Vats (Retail Value: $39.95)
1 of 3
Up first in the Spring Box was this gorgeous handwoven handkerchief. It's 100% silk and features blue paisley and mandala motifs. NOVICA suggests using it as a hair tie or a stylish handbag decoration.
I'm not exactly sure how I'll use it yet. Perhaps I'll place it into a decorative bowl or incorporate it into a vignette (I totally just learned what this means a few days ago).
"Eden Melody" Bell by Jurayev's Family (Retail Value: $29.95)
1 of 3
I then unraveled this beauty! This porcelain bell is hand-painted and perfect for the season. Do you think I should pair it with the handkerchief to create the vignette? Or, should I display it on one of our bookcase shelves?
Decisions, decisions.
"Altar to Splendor" Jewelry Box by Olimjon Omonov (Retail Value: $50.95)
1 of 4
This lustrous, palm-size papier mache jewelry box was a fun find. While I was hoping for all the decorations in my box to be at least mid-size, I can see myself using this fairly frequently.
The question is, should I use it for actual jewelry or enclose something else such as vintage coins?
"Uzbek Delight" Vase by Sayyodjon Nigmatov (Retail Value: $47.95)
1 of 4
I absolutely loved this gem! This glazed ceramic vase looks so versatile - it could be used as is, for displaying dried floral arrangements, and so much more.
There's actually this boutique over in Lake Wales that carries mini bouquets of eucalyptus and purple larkspur that would sit well in this. They also carry French lavender bundles as well, so I've got options.
"Rishtan Heritage" Vase by Sayyodjon Nigmatov (Retail Value: $80.95)
1 of 2
I have a confession to make...this vase arrived shattered into pieces! 😭 And yes, I totally super glued it for the cover photo if it wasn't totally obvious.
My heart was broken, but I knew that NOVICA would resolve the issue. I contacted them right away and they just alerted me that my new vase is on the way.
As soon as I receive my vase I'll make sure to update the above pictures. For now, I've included the images of the (unbroken) based shared on NOVICA's website.
Postcard
1 of 2
The last piece I received was this cool little postcard that served as a remnant of my journey to the Silk Road.
Value
The retail value of these 5 items is $249.75, which is over four times the price of this box. So monetarily, the value you get is huge. However, if it wasn't clear earlier, the value that I got from having someone curate household items for me is priceless.
The Verdict
All I can say is...WOW! I was absolutely blown away by how beautiful each artisan treasure was. While I was saddened by the broken vase, I'm anxiously awaiting its replacement. P.S. Huge thanks to NOVICA's customer support team for responding swiftly.
Until next time!
Please do not enter your email address in the Name field or in the comment content. Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *. Remember to post with kindness and respect. Comments with offensive language, cruelness to others, etc will not be approved. See our full comment policy here.