My thoughts on PR boxes

I have just sent out my first batch of PR boxes for my second novel. Aside from the fact that I’m apparently allergic to some of the dried flowers I used (who knew you could sneeze so much your ribs ache?), I had a wonderful time creating them. Figuring out what stickers I want to make, designing the bookmarks, curating just the right selection of items to highlight my novel…I love it all. Thankfully, I also have a very talented daughter (you should check out her merch and the book boxes she creates) who helps me implement many of the elements, as well as pointing me in the right direction for things like tea and candles (no, I will not start a new candlemaking hobby!). I’ve always been pretty creative, and this task just taps into that side of my brain.

So, do I think PR boxes are worth the time, money, and effort? That depends on how you choose to measure their effectiveness. Have I seen enough sales that I can link back to the boxes? While I know tracking that kind of marketing can be tricky, the answer to that question is no. I just haven’t seen enough sales to suggest the boxes have moved the needle at all.

However, financial results are certainly not the only consideration. I take a great deal of pride in my boxes, and I think that really shows in the finished product. So, I feel like they are beginning to get noticed. I’ve received numerous compliments, and judging by the level of excitement, it seems as if they are becoming a prized possession. All of this leads to more traffic and engagement on my socials and website, which is definitely valuable in the long run.

The other worthwhile use, in my opinion, is in gifting them to those who have supported me in this journey. Every single day, I discover something from the BookTok, Bookstagram, or Facebook (or should that be BookBook?) communities that saves me time or keeps me from making a mistake. Frankly, that knowledge is invaluable to me, and rewarding those responsible when I can, is the least I can do.

So, if you’re on the fence about PR boxes, my vote is yes, if you can afford them. And if you need help figuring them out, just holler. I’m happy to help.