As passionate, lifelong writers and readers, Sarah Khan and Melanie McKnight developed a strong bond over their love of literature. They combined forces to embark on a venture rooted in their mutual interest in creating a brand they could stand behind. Both founders wanted to combine their love of self-care and books, while encouraging subscribers to take a break from technology.

Created by the pair of friends, Unplugged Book Box provides subscribers with a monthly delivery of either a new Young Adult or New Adult book, along with quality self-care items. Each box also includes exclusive extras such as self-reflection tools, activities to unplug, and healthy recipes tailored to a seasonal theme.

Khan and McKnight had a long history of digging into writing projects, forming book groups, and developing a sense of community through social media and blogging platforms, so the framework of an online business felt like a good fit. But neither had owned a business before and the logistics initially felt overwhelming. They incorporated in July 2018 and immediately began working with the RISBDC. Business counselor Amit Basnet helped the owners with basic business planning and a partnership agreement, and provided a personal introduction to a resource in the Department of Taxation for assistance filing the appropriate tax and resale forms.

“The RISBDC was helpful and informative about starting our small business,” McKnight said.  “We had a lot of questions about startups answered, and were given a lot of information.” Khan and McKnight are grateful for Basnet’s guidance and support in connecting them with reputable agencies and state workers that have helped make the opening of their business a success. The RISBDC remains an important point of contact for the owners of Unplugged Book Box as their business continues to grow.

The partners pre-read each book before deciding to feature it in their box, and work directly with publishing companies to provide the best new reads each month. Khan and McKnight also work directly with small-businesses to create customized and exclusive self-care and novelty products that all relate to the month’s theme, and the season each box is shipped.

Since the Unplugged Book Box has been available, every month has sold out! The owners’ clear passion for creating a cohesive and valuable subscription experience has paid off. With support to navigate the challenges of launching a venture, Khan and McKnight have turned their passion into a successful small business that supports and promotes other small businesses. Get your hands on an Unplugged Book Box while you can!