Meet the team

My name is Janie, and I am a wife, mama to three, and small business owner. I live a pretty simple life and wouldn’t have it any other way. I enjoy reading past my bedtime, being outside, baking (and eating!) anything sweet, archery, and occasionally stress cleaning.

I am passionate about The Village Box because I know firsthand how lonely some seasons of motherhood can feel. I struggled with postpartum depression after each of my children, and living in a rural area made it especially difficult to feel connected to others during a time when I needed support most.

I know how much it can mean to feel remembered, encouraged, and reminded that you’re not alone. That’s the heart behind The Village Box. I hope to help create the kind of community and connection that I wish I had during some of my hardest seasons.

I’m Mariellen. My husband James, our daughter Christabella and I live in Stone Bluff. As a family we live by the motto “show up and show out”: we always show up for our loved ones, and we show out by giving 100% effort.

In a world where everyone is busy and self-consumed, I want it to be known how much we care about our family, friends and community.

The idea for The Village Box came from a sweet friend, with the mindset of being there for people when they are going through something heavy. When life is heavy, it becomes more manageable when someone is there to help carry us through.

I’m happy you exist!

My name is Isabella, and I’m an aunt, an IT professional, and the owner of Wildflower Sip Co. When I’m not working, you can find me cooking something new, reading, rolling dice at a tabletop game night, or watching a movie so bad it’s good.

The Village Box is close to my heart because I lost my brother, Zachary, to suicide. I know how heavy a hard season can be, both for the person carrying it and for the people who love them. In his memory, I run The Zachary Thomas Carter Foundation, and I believe deeply that no one should have to walk through their darkest days alone.

I know how much it can mean to feel remembered, encouraged, and reminded that someone is in your corner. If a care package or a handwritten letter can be that reminder for even one person, it’s worth it. I’m honored to serve on the board as Secretary and to handle all of our technology needs as we build this village, one box at a time.