Lush Bites, a gluten-free cookie subscription box by Megan Hastings, delivers gourmet cookies straight to your door. In this box, cookies aren’t the average chocolate chip cookie – instead, subscribers receive unique flavors that they won’t find anywhere else!
How did you come up with the idea?
I was diagnosed with celiac disease a few years ago and, as an avid baker, I wanted to create desserts that help those who eat gluten-free feel like they aren’t missing out on indulgent treats. You can find basic cookie options at your local grocery store, but there is nothing decadent or gourmet about them. Now, gluten-free individuals can have unique cookies that taste delicious and are really fun, too!
How do you select your products?
All of our cookies are personally baked with care by the Lush Bites team in small batches and in a dedicated gluten-free facility. We create new flavors each month to keep our cookies fun and unique – you won’t find these cookies anywhere else! We love finding inspiration for flavors through researching food trends, revamping old favorites, and giving our own gluten-free spin to normally gluten-heavy flavors.
How do you find customers?
We have a great Instagram community that loves interacting with us and talking about all things gluten-free. We like to say that our sugar cookies are little pieces of art and they’re so visual that Instagram is a great platform for us to connect with our customers. We love seeing what our customers are eating and sharing on Instagram, too!
What is the most difficult part of running a subscription box business?
Wearing so many different hats – I’m the baker, owner, social media manager, sales person, accountant, etc. Sometimes it gets exhausting.
What do you enjoy most about running your business?
Hearing the testimonials from people all over the country about how they are so happy to find gluten-free cookies. It makes my day to hear that I made their celiac diagnosis or new venture in gluten-free eating easier and enjoyable.
What do customers love most about your box?
Every month is something new – they won’t find these flavors anywhere else!
What advice would you give to someone just starting out in subscription commerce?
Find a community that will help you bounce your ideas around and be there for support. Then return the favor. Having a community that has the same entrepreneurial passion and spirit is vital!
