I'm diverting a bit off the traditional gift ideas path today...I recently came across an article written by Emily McCarthy for Southern Coterie regarding gifting heirlooms and it has stuck with me for a few weeks now, so I wanted to share it with you.
Image Kelli Boyd Photography for Emily McCarthy
I think most of us, especially Southern ladies, find we develop an attachment to heirlooms of our mothers, grandmothers, aunts, fathers or any close friend or relative. Whether it's an article of jewelry, art, clothing, a book or dishes, we typically find ourselves drawn to something that speaks to us or has some sort of sentimental attachment. For me, that's my mother's class ring that she gave to me a few years ago. Another interesting, yet meaningful, gift in our family was my grandmother's pink ashtray that my dear cousin ended up with after our grandmother's passing a few years ago. Regardless of what you find meaningful, what's important is that it goes to someone - at the right time - who will cherish and appreciate the item.
The Pink Ashtray once used by my grandmother, Evelyn Worm. Image Tiara King.
The blog post on Southern Coterie links to Hannah Bergen's website which provides a kit for you to track your heirlooms - their history and the intended recipient. I hope it inspires you or a loved one to document and preserve valued items within your family.
Happy gifting!