Samples are a great way to reach new customers and reward regular customers for loyalty while introducing them to new products—but there’s a way to do it well and maximize your ROI. In this month’s edition of Shelf Stars, we’re featuring the brands that do samples and minis best, no weird sticky peel and sniff fragrance postcards here.

Glow Recipe Mini Watermelon Glow TonerAside from their amazing formulas, Glow Recipe is instantly recognizable for their custom primary packaging—something that often gets lost when it comes to mini sizes. But with their iconic Watermelon Glow Toner, they were able to keep the same shape and color, creating the same luxury experience customers expect, just in a smaller size.

Josie Maran Mini Butter BabiesKnown for their intensely hydrating and nourishing Argan Oil-infused formulas, Josie Maran is a master of body care. Instead of simply shrinking down their packaging for single-use sampling and travel, they’ve created innovative pouches that put the fun in functional. Easy to pack, and bursting with recognizable branding, these pouches pack a one-two punch of product and experience.

Vyrao Sunny SetWhen it comes to travel or sample-size fragrances, there’s not much innovation to be had in terms of primary packaging—but that doesn’t mean there aren’t other ways to get creative. This sample duo of the brand’s most popular clean fragrances comes uniquely packaged in a dual-feature secondary box that feels luxurious, yet representative of their natural and optimistic scents.

Moon Juice SachetsIt’s no secret that Moon Juice’s adaptogenic “Dusts” catapulted the brand into cult status—so it’s no wonder they’re a product they want to share far and wide. While these dusts typically come in jars, their single serving sachets make it easy to supply as samples, or sell in sets to encourage customers to keep up with their beloved wellness routines, wherever they are.

DS & Durga Air FragrancePurveyors of unexpected sensual scents, DS & Durga offer an eclectic brand experience in the fine fragrance world. Recognized for their illustrative packaging and unique fragrance combinations, it’s only fitting that they thought up a unique way to give customers a whiff of their fragrances: Air Fragrance. Riffing on car air fresheners, these portable, disposable fragrances are lifestyle-ready, and a great introduction to the brand’s overall vibe.

If you want to create a unique sampling experience that’s representative of your own brand, our team of experts is here to help you think strategically to bring it to life. Reach out today to get started.