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How Sound Income Group Rolled Out the Red Carpet—Georgia Style!

When we say we love what we do, it’s projects like this one that remind us why. Recently, we had the absolute pleasure of putting together 60 custom-curated Welcome to Georgia Gift Boxes for an event hosted by Sound Income Group at none other than The Ritz-Carlton® | Reynolds, Lake Oconee—a breathtaking Marriott Bonvoy® property and one of our favorite spots in the state.

Sound Income Group, one of the fastest growing financial organizations in the industry, reached out to us with a clear vision. They wanted to treat their event attendees to an in-room amenity gift that was fully Georgia-focused—and they already had their sights set on our Welcome to Georgia Gift Box.

No guesswork. No long back and forth. They knew they wanted to support local Georgia artisans, and they knew this box was the perfect way to do it.

Each gift box included:

• Southern Cheese Straws – made in Columbus, GA

• Cinnamon Sugar Pecans by Goodson Pecans – grown in Leesburg, GA

• Peach Buds Candies – a sweet Georgia staple

• Stuckey’s® Pecan Log Roll – made in Wrens, GA

• Georgia Peanuts – straight from the farms of South Georgia

• And the fan-favorite: a Georgia Peach Tote Bag by Things UnCommon, handcrafted in Atlanta, GA
  
  
  

To make the gift even more personal, Sound Income Group provided us with a beautifully designed custom co-branded card. We adhered each one to the inside lid of the boxes before hand-delivering all 60 gifts directly to The Ritz-Carlton® | Reynolds, Lake Oconee—just in time for the attendees' arrival.

Everything from start to finish went off without a hitch. With a clear plan, a shared mission to support local businesses, and a collaborative spirit, we delivered a project that we’re incredibly proud of.

It’s not every day that a financial services firm goes out of their way to give back to local communities, but Sound Income Group did just that—by choosing Georgia-made goods, they helped support over half a dozen small makers across the state.

We're so grateful to have played a part in making their guests feel welcomed, appreciated, and surrounded by a little Southern charm.

Marriott friends, this one’s for the books! 👏

Want to send Georgia love in a box?
Explore our Welcome to Georgia gift boxes and more at GeorgiaCrafted.com

📍 @ritzcarltonreynoldslakeoconee
🏨 @marriottbonvoy
💼 @soundincomegroup
🛍️ @thingsuncommon


#SupportLocalGA #GeorgiaCrafted #WelcomeToGeorgia #MarriottMoments #RitzCarlton #GeorgiaMakers #InRoomGifting #CorporateGifting #LakeOconeeVibes

At Georgia Crafted, we pride ourselves on creating meaningful and thoughtful gift boxes that make people feel special, whether they’re celebrating a new job, moving to a new home, or attending a major event. Recently, we had the pleasure of working with a company called Patent Co., who reached out to us to help welcome their international colleagues and distributors to Atlanta for the upcoming IPPE 2025 Trade Show.

Patent Co., based overseas, needed a unique way to make their team feel right at home during their time in Georgia. With attendees flying in from places like Serbia, Latin America, and Austria, they wanted to ensure their colleagues had a little taste of Georgia waiting for them in their hotel rooms. And we were more than happy to assist!

The Request: Welcome Gift Boxes for International Guests

Patent Co. asked us to create "Mini Welcome to Georgia Gift Boxes" that would be placed in the hotel rooms of their team members. The goal was simple but impactful: to make their guests feel more welcomed by introducing them to a few local favorites that represented the hospitality and flavor of Georgia. They trusted us to curate a selection of items that would leave a lasting impression.

The Gift Box Contents: A Taste of Georgia

We carefully selected products that are both iconic to Georgia and enjoyable for a wide range of tastes:

• Cheese Straws by Southern Straws: These crispy, cheesy treats are a Southern classic and the perfect snack for anyone with a craving for something savory.
• Georgia Peanuts Snack Pack by the Georgia Peanut Commission: Known worldwide for their quality, Georgia peanuts are a must-have! These snack-sized packs are ideal for a quick bite.
• Peach Buds by Butterfields Candy (based in NC): To add a sweet touch, we included these delicious peach-flavored candies. After all, Georgia is famous for its peaches, and what better way to share that with international guests?

Each gift box was carefully packaged and thoughtfully assembled, then sent to a local Marriott hotel, where they were waiting for the guests upon arrival in their rooms, offering a warm Georgia welcome even before they made their way to the event. As our client said, “I am sure that all of them are going to feel more welcomed if there is something waiting for them in the hotel room.” We couldn't agree more!

Branded Touch for a Personalized Experience

To add an extra level of customization, Patent Co. designed their own branded card that would be included inside the gift box. They sent us their design, and we printed and adhered it to the inside lid of each box. This allowed them to get their branding in front of the recipients while still offering a thoughtful, local touch. It's always great to see how personalized touches like these can elevate the gifting experience and make it even more memorable.

International Appeal with a Local Touch

What made this project particularly exciting was the international nature of the attendees. People were flying in from around the world, including places like Serbia, Latin America, and Austria. By providing these snacks, which included two of which are made right here in Georgia, we were able to give them a taste of local culture and hospitality. It’s always a thrill to know that a small gesture—like a thoughtfully curated gift box—can make such a big impact.

Conclusion

The IPPE 2025 Trade Show will be an exciting event for Patent Co. and all of their colleagues, and we’re honored to have been a part of their preparation by crafting these welcome gift boxes. It’s experiences like this that remind us of the power of thoughtful gifting: the simple act of welcoming someone with local treats and a personalized branded touch can make them feel truly special.

At Georgia Crafted, we specialize in creating curated gift boxes that bring people together, whether they’re from across the country or across the world. If you’re planning an event, a corporate retreat, or simply want to make someone’s day, we’d love to help you put together the perfect gift box!

Looking for a custom corporate gifting experience? Reach out to Georgia Crafted and let us craft something memorable for your next event or occasion.

At Georgia Crafted, we have the privilege of working with some of the most talented makers across the state, and Amy Shippy is no exception. As the owner of Lottiebelle’s and a true entrepreneur at heart, Amy brings creativity, passion, and a wealth of experience to every project she touches. From her flavorful pecans to her whimsical kitchen towels, Amy's contributions have become a cherished part of what we offer.

The Perfect Addition to Our Holiday Gift Boxes

Over the past few years, we’ve had the pleasure of collaborating with Amy
in multiple ways, from selling her playful kitchen towel designs to featuring
her delicious flavored pecans. One standout item this year has been her
Salty Spice Pecans. These delectable treats were the perfect addition to our
2024 Holiday Gift Box, and we’re thrilled to share that we bought and sold over 1,000 bags this holiday season! It’s no surprise that customers love them as much as we do—they truly capture the essence of Georgia-made goodness.

The Story Behind the Name Lottiebelles

When I first asked Amy how she came up with the name Lottiebelle’s, I assumed it was inspired by a family connection, perhaps her grandmother or another beloved relative. But her response caught me by surprise, and it’s a story worth sharing.

Originally, Amy wanted to name her company Lilybelle’s, a nod to the daughter she never had but would have named Lily. However, when she attempted to trademark the name, she discovered it wasn’t available. Undeterred, Amy brainstormed other options until she landed on Lottiebelle’s. The name stuck, and she found a fun way to tie it back to her original inspiration by naming her cat Lily, who’s featured in the company’s logo. Amy’s next goal? To adopt a second cat and name her Lottie, completing the circle of creativity and connection that defines her brand.

Meet Amy Shippy

To truly understand the heart behind Lottiebelle’s, you need to know more about Amy herself. Here’s a glimpse into her journey:

Amy Shippy is the co-founder of Marché de Macarons and the owner of
Blue Poppy Designs and Lottiebelle’s, based in Savannah, Georgia. A seasoned entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience, Amy has built a reputation for excellence in the food, beverage, and gift industries. Born and raised on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, Amy moved to Savannah in the 1990s to study Graphic Design at the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD).

Amy launched her first business at just 21 years old, sparking a lifelong passion for entrepreneurship. Her ventures have earned accolades, including her 2019 win at Biz Pitch Hilton Head. Amy's work has been highlighted in South Magazine, Chatham County Living Magazine, and the Savannah Morning News.

Beyond her professional achievements, Amy considers her greatest success to be raising three sons while passing on the principles of hard work and perseverance. Dedicated to supporting others, Amy is passionate about helping aspiring business owners overcome challenges and realize their potential. She aims to empower women to embrace leadership and unlock their full potential in business and beyond.

A Maker Worth Celebrating

Amy Shippy is a shining example of what makes Georgia Crafted so special—local makers with big dreams, immense talent, and an undeniable drive to create something extraordinary. Whether it’s a bag of her Salty Spice Pecans or a charming kitchen towel, Amy’s products reflect her love for her craft and her community. We’re proud to work with Amy and can’t wait to see what she dreams up next.

Here’s to many more years of partnership and celebrating the incredible work of Georgia makers like Amy Shippy and Lottiebelle’s!

We are thrilled to share some exciting news—Georgia Crafted was recently highlighted by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution as a top recommendation for holiday gifting! 🎉 In their write-up earlier this December, they shined a spotlight on the unique, locally-made items we proudly offer from talented artisans across Georgia.

Here’s what they had to say:

"The Georgia Crafted website sells more than 200 products made by small, local artisans from around Georgia. You can buy individual items or gift boxes. Check out the 2024 holiday gift box ($39.99) — Buttery Caramel Popcorn by Cork’s Popcorn, Original Cheese Straws by Mama Geraldine’s, Salty Spice Pecans by Lottiebelles, Pecan Divinity Roll by Dillon Candy Co., and Chocolate Chip Cookies by Oh Sugar. Or consider building a custom box. Choose from dozens of treats, including Kiss My Grits Georgia Peach Lip Balm, ClaxSnax - Individually Wrapped Claxton Mini Fruit Cakes and Rosé Gummi Bears, just to name a few."

This recognition means so much to us and the incredible makers we work with. It’s a testament to the creativity, quality, and heart that goes into every product we curate. From our 2024 Holiday Gift Box to the option to Build Your Own Gift Box, there’s something special for everyone on Georgia Crafted—and it’s all made with love right here in the Peach State.

A big thank you to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution for featuring us and helping spread the word about shopping local. And of course, thank you to our wonderful customers for making this season so memorable. Your support of Georgia’s small businesses truly makes a difference! 💛

Check out the mention and be sure to explore our collection if you haven’t yet: www.georgiacrafted.com

#GeorgiaCrafted #ShopLocal #SupportMakers #AJCFeature #HolidayGifts

We are excited to announce we are featuring a new maker/new product at Georgia Crafted: Alma Coffee, located in Canton, GA.

Founded in 2018 by Leticia and Harry Hutchins, Alma Coffee was born from a passion for revolutionizing the coffee industry through Direct Trade. Their mission is simple yet impactful: to make ethically sourced, farm-to-cup coffee accessible to everyone while shining a light on the positive change Direct Trade brings to coffee farmers worldwide.

Alma’s roots run deep—five generations deep, to be exact. Leticia is a fifth-generation coffee farmer who grew up immersed in the coffee culture of Honduras. Her father, Al Lopez, co-founder of Alma Coffee, was born and raised on coffee farms in Copán, Honduras. Despite immigrating to the United States, Al kept the family’s coffee legacy alive, ensuring Leticia stayed connected to her heritage through annual visits to the farms.

Leticia and Harry’s journey together began in high school when they met at just 16 years old. After graduating college and working in their dream jobs as consultants at Big 4 accounting firms, they felt a calling to create something more meaningful. Frequent trips to Honduras, alongside Al, deepened their understanding of the transformative power of Direct Trade. Inspired by the opportunity to make a difference, they decided to carry on the family coffee tradition—and Alma Coffee was born.

Today, Alma Coffee brings premium, sustainably grown coffee to your cup, with a story as rich as its flavors. We’re proud to feature this incredible maker and share their mission with our Georgia Crafted community!

The Award-Winning Flavor

The Flavor of Georgia competition is no small feat. It’s a prestigious event that celebrates the best of the state’s food products, and winning an award here is a testament to exceptional quality and taste. Sully’s Slammin Fresh Salsa captivated the judges with its perfect blend of fresh ingredients, balanced heat, and vibrant flavors.

Supporting Young Entrepreneurs

By carrying Sully’s Slammin Fresh Salsa, we’re not only offering our customers an outstanding product but also supporting a young entrepreneur with a bright future. Tyler's story is a powerful reminder that age is no barrier to success and that passion, hard work, and creativity can lead to incredible achievements.

Try It Today!

We invite you to try Sully’s Slammin Fresh Salsa and experience the award-winning flavor for yourself. Whether you’re a salsa aficionado or just looking to add some zest to your meals, Sully’s salsa is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Order up a jar (or two!) of Sully’s Slammin Fresh Salsa. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you!

It’s MAYCEMBER, and we can help!

If the end of school countdown (and ALL those events!!) has you a little frazzled, let us help you cross a few items off that never-ending list.

Shop our Teacher Appreciation Collection, and find hand-crafted gifts from local makers.

With over a decade of experience, our gift guidance is sure to score you an A+!

Hey y'all, this Earth Day, let's honor our beautiful planet with some eco-conscious choices, made right here in Georgia! We've got a selection of sustainable and locally-made goodies that are perfect for showing some love to Mother Earth while treating yourself or your loved ones. 🌺

Check out our earth-friendly picks:

🐝 Bee Goodness: Our selection of local honey is not just delicious, it's a sweet tribute to the hardworking Georgia bees and the eco-system they support.

Pure Honey by The Honey Shack

🍑 Peach Preserves: Spread the love with preservatives made from Georgia Grown peaches—a tasty way to support sustainable farming.

Peach Preserves by Prissy's of Vidalia

🕯️ Soy Candles: Set the mood and breathe easy with our handcrafted soy candles. They burn cleaner than traditional candles, and they smell absolutely amazing.

Love & Lemons Candle by Things UnCommon

🌰 Handmade Soaps: Indulge in our natural soaps made with ingredients that are kind to your skin and the environment. It's self-care with a clear conscience!


Check out our handmade soaps here!

So let's get together and make a difference this Earth Day, y'all. Every little bit helps, and with these Georgia Crafted products, you're supporting local businesses while caring for our planet. That's what we call a win-win! 🌍💚

This week is the event we wait for all year round: The Annual Flavor of Georgia Competition, a spotlight on the most mouthwatering creations our state has to offer!

This coming Thursday, April 4th, the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences’ will sponsor the contest at the Classic Center in Athens, GA.

Flavor of Georgia is more than a contest; it helps promote and showcase the variety and success of food entrepreneurs in the state. Since 2007, more than 1,700 products have been entered into the contest, and participating businesses have experienced increased sales, business contacts, publicity and overall interest in their products.

We're always so tickled when we see the finalist list and it includes products we already carry...and that we will be able to see some very familiar faces, makers of other amazing products that we carry on georgiacrafted.com.

Right now, we're cheering on some top-tier contenders in this year's face-off.
First up, we've got the fizzy and fabulous "Peches" Georgia peach soda from
New Creation Soda Works. It's bubbling its way to the top as a finalist in the Beverage Category with every sip promising a sweet ode to Georgia's signature fruit. 🥤🍑

Then, there's the savory kick of Buffalo Ranch Popcorn by Cork's Popcorn, which is poppin' its way to fame as a finalist in the Snack Category. One handful is all it takes to understand why—it's a flavor fiesta that's impossible to resist! 🍿🌶️

But hold on, because the delicious train doesn't stop there. We're also toasting to some phenomenal past finalists and winners that you can find right on our website:



- HIBO Energize Original Superdrink by HIBO (2023 Beverage Winner)

- Oconee Gold White Sauce by Oconee Gold (2023 BBQ Sauce Winner)

- Extra Virgin Olive Oil by Woodpecker Trail Olive Farm (2023 Miscellaneous Winner)

- Vanilla Fried Peanut Cluster by Georgia Fried Peanut Company (2020 Confections Winner)

- Sorta White Sauce by Lanes BBQ (2018 BBQ Sauce Winner)

- Georgia Pecan Shortbread by Watanut (2018 Confections Finalist)

- Sugar & Spice Cashews by Elise Artisan Nuts (formerly High Cotton Cashews)(2018 Snack Winner)

- Southern Cheese Straws by Southern Straws (2015 Snack Finalist)

Each of these delicious creations has a unique story and reflects the innovation and spirit of Georgia's food scene. So when you savor these treats, you're not just enjoying a bite; you're part of a legacy that continues to grow and impress. 🌟

We are proud to carry these delectable products on our website, and invite you to discover why they've captured the hearts (and stomachs!) of so many. Happy exploring, savoring, and supporting these local legends – one taste at a time!

And...good luck to all of the 2024 Finalists! Can't wait to cheer you on!