Subscription boxes go local in Minnesota

Subscription boxes have become a popular way to shop. These days, there's a box you can order for everything from clothing to crafts to ready-made gourmet dinners. But the latest trend in filling boxes: locally made goods. Two new Twin Cities start-ups are moving away from subscriptions and simply offering an easy way to send the ultimate Minnesota-made gifts for every occasion.

MN Box: Customized boxes designed to surprise. Customers take a short survey, which determines what fills their box. Goods range from art and apparel to snacks and books. Boxes are available for $50, $75, $100, and $1,000. Five percent of all purchases go to a rotating roster of local charities. mn-box.com

Minny & Paul: occasion-themed boxes for bridesmaids, hostess gifts, pampering and more. Each comes in a handcrafted wooden keepsake box filled with goods from local brands. Prices range from $68 to $108. minnyandpaul.com