The cost of Fair Ivy is $30 per month plus shipping, which for me, was $6.95. You can get a monthly subscription, six months or twelve months but the cost is the same, regardless of term. Fair Ivy charges around the middle of the month and their service is only available in the U.S.A.
Because Fair Ivy's products are handmade, there is a limited number available to send each month. That means you generally need to get on their wait list so they can contact you when they have open subscription spots. When slots are available, they will send you an e-mail. Such an e-mail was sent out a few days ago for the April box followed by another e-mail three hours later saying that subscriptions were closed. Moral: If you're on the waiting list and want the next month's box, you need to respond very quickly when you hear from them.
My first Fair Ivy package arrived directly from Amanda Deer Jewelry in Austin, TX. As you can see, it was a bubble envelope and weighed just 1 oz. (For the record, the USPS site says the cost of a 1 oz. from Austin to my home is $.98. Insurance through a third party can easily be obtained for less than a dollar. The packaging here is no more than $.50.)
Inside was a small plain jewelry box tied with green and white string.
The card on the left is from Fair Ivy and introduces the artist of the month, Amanda Deer, who is known for her dainty and classic jewelry. A quick look at her site was a surprise because I realized I already own a couple of her pieces. I think these were received through other subscription boxes and maybe even Little Black Box, before its demise. There is also a logo tag and a note from Amanda telling about her business and the piece of jewelry enclosed.
The featured item for March is a very dainty 14K gold filled necklace with three tiny rings handmade by Amanda in her studio. This is an extremely delicate piece which, for me, is actually a relief from the gaudy statement jewelry that has been so trendy for the past couple of years. This beautifully versatile necklace would look good with almost anything and would also make a nice layering piece.
Here's a close-up showing the three ring detail:
The card mentions that this necklace was made exclusively for Fair Ivy subscribers. I have a feeling that some ladies will think it's too minimal but there's no doubt it's a classic style and will make a great jewelry wardrobe staple for anyone. I particularly appreciate that it's not geared exclusively towards young women and should have broad appeal.
So, thank you Fair Ivy and Amanda Deer Jewelry for this month's lovely necklace! I am hoping that the over-charge on shipping is averaged over several months to cover the cost of shipping heavier items. Aside from that one minor complaint, I am enjoying this unique opportunity to discover new artists without having to do the legwork myself!
April's subscription spots are full at the moment but if you're interested in Fair Ivy, get your name on their wait list ASAP. If I remember right, I didn't have to wait long before getting an e-mail telling me I could sign up.
Thank you for reading,
Cheryl
P.S. If you're considering giving Fair Ivy as a gift, take a look at their Past Surprises page to get a feel for the types of items they have sent over the past year or two.
Disclosure: Views and opinions expressed in this blog are
strictly my own. Product discussed in this post was purchased by Lone
Star Shopper. Post does not contain referral or affiliate links.
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