Probably one of the greatest, and most unexpected things to come from the founding of Aunt Laurie’s is the overwhelming sense of love and joy that comes from the work we do.
In today’s day and age, gift cards have become a common token of appreciation. They have become a quick and simple standard in the world of giving- but one that has become all too impersonal. Though any gift shows good intent and a sense of caring, there’s something extra special about a gift that has been selected with your likes and interests in mind.
One of the best parts of my day is when I get the chance to hand deliver a basket to an unsuspecting recipient. The amount of appreciation people have for those who have taken the time to order something specifically with them in mind is truly infectious. It can enhance any mood. I have personally tried to maintain my composure- to not let people’s reactions after receiving one of our gifts make me smile- I lose every time. And I’m okay with that.
But, I have an unfair advantage working against me, and that is knowing and experiencing the behind-the-scenes side of the Aunt Laurie’s process that has led us to each grateful moment. Seeing, firsthand the amount of smiles and jokes combined with the hard work and dedication of each worker who takes part in creating our baskets, gives me a feeling of purpose that is more fulfilling than almost any other I can imagine.
It’s a never-ending cycle of love and appreciation, from our workers enjoying their days in a job they may not have otherwise had, to the excitement that can be felt in the conversations I have with customers as they create each basket with a special someone in mind, to watching the happy reactions and reading the heartfelt thank you letters from those who receive one of our baskets that makes everything we do, here at Aunt Laurie’s, worthwhile.
It’s amazing how a personalized gesture can change the course of not only someone’s day, but also, in a warehouse not too far away, the course of someone’s life.
