With Birchbox, Katia Beauchamp and Hayley Barna have tapped into a few things consumers really love: physical mail, the element of surprise, and the ability to try stuff out before committing. Birchbox subscribers complete a personal profile and receive a curated package of five or so samples every month—most are high-end beauty products, but boxes have included everything from earbuds to energy bars. And with the recent launch of Birchbox for men, the product lineup is expanding even more (think shaving gear, socks, and bar accessories). More »