FAQ
What does Near & Afar mean?
Near & Afar is our way of celebrating the best of both worlds — products sourced close to home and from distant places, brought together with intention. Every item in our boxes is designated as Near, meaning domestically sourced, or Afar, meaning internationally sourced. It is a framework rooted in discovery — the belief that remarkable things exist both around the corner and across the world.
But Near & Afar is also about the people in your life. The ones who live down the street and the ones you wish were closer. A Near & Afar box is a way of closing that distance — of saying "I was thinking of you" no matter how many miles are between you.
Will there be new boxes?
Absolutely — new boxes are always in the works. Near & Afar is built on the belief that there is a perfectly curated box for every occasion, every person, and every moment worth celebrating. New collections will be introduced throughout the year as we discover remarkable new makers and products worth sharing.
As one of our earliest customers, your voice matters to us. We would love to hear what occasions, themes, or experiences you would like to see curated into a future Near & Afar box. Share your ideas in the post-purchase survey included with your order, or send them directly to us at info@shopnearandafar.com — you may just see your suggestion come to life.
How are products selected?
Every product in a Near & Afar box is chosen through a deliberate and thoughtful curation process. We source from small-batch makers, artisan producers, and independent brands who treat their craft as a calling — prioritizing quality, provenance, and story above all else.
We look for products that feel genuinely discovered — things you would not have found on your own, and would not have thought to look for. Each item must earn its place in the box, chosen not just for what it is but for the role it plays alongside everything else.
Near sourced from across the United States. Afar sourced from remarkable makers around the world. Always chosen with intention. Always worthy of the person receiving it.
Can I cancel or modify my order?
We begin processing orders quickly to ensure prompt shipment. If you need to cancel or modify your order, please contact us atinfo@shopnearandafar.comwithin 30 minutes of placing it. After this window we are unable to accommodate changes or cancellations as your order may already be in production. Please review your order carefully before completing your purchase.
Do you offer expedited shipping?
Yes — expedited shipping options are available at checkout for an additional cost. Simply select your preferred shipping speed at checkout and your order will be prioritized for processing. Please note that expedited shipping applies to transit time only and does not reduce our standard 2-3 business day processing window.
When should I order for a specific occasion?
We recommend ordering at least 7-10 days before your desired delivery date to allow for processing and shipping time. This ensures your box arrives with time to spare for the occasion.
Have a specific date in mind for your loved one to open their gift? Simply note the date at checkout and we will include a card inside the box encouraging the recipient to wait until that special moment to open it. A gift held in anticipation is a gift worth savoring.
Are products ever substituted?
Due to the small-batch and artisan nature of our products, occasional substitutions may be necessary when an item becomes unavailable. In these cases, we carefully select a replacement of equal or greater value that maintains the spirit and quality of the original box. Every substitution is made with the same intention and care that goes into curating each Near & Afar box.
Can I include a personalized message?
Every Near & Afar box includes a complimentary gift note. For orders placed before April 29, notes are handwritten by our founder and placed on a branded Near & Afar card inside the box. We will resume personalized handwritten notes on May 4. A small, personal touch that makes all the difference.
Can I ship directly to the recipient?
Absolutely. Simply enter the recipient's address as the shipping address at checkout. If you are including a gift note, your message will be handwritten and placed inside the box. No pricing information is included in the package. Prefer to hand deliver? Ship to yourself and let us know at checkout that you'd like a blank card included instead.
How long does shipping take?
All orders are carefully packed and shipped within 2-3 business days of purchase. Our first shipments will begin on April 27. Standard ground shipping typically arrives within 3-5 business days of shipment. Expedited shipping options are available at checkout for an additional cost. You will receive a tracking number via email once your order has shipped.
What if my order arrives damaged?
We take great care in packing every Near & Afar box, but we understand that things can happen in transit. If your order arrives damaged, please contact us atinfo@shopnearandafar.comwithin 7 days of delivery with your order number and photos of the damage. We will make it right with a replacement or full refund at our discretion.
What is your return policy?
All Near & Afar purchases are final sale. Due to the curated and perishable nature of our gift boxes, we are unable to accept returns or issue refunds on opened boxes. If your order arrives damaged, please contact us atinfo@shopnearandafar.comwithin 7 days of delivery with your order number and photos of the damage. We will make it right.