The Perfect Souvenir

Summer brings travel, and travel inevitably brings the search for the perfect souvenir…

Evidently, there’s a moment during nearly every trip when you’re standing in a market stall or inside an authentic gift shop, finding yourself caught between wanting to bring something home and knowing that it has to be special enough not to end up stuffed in a drawer.

Personally, I believe that the most meaningful reminders of vacation aren’t trinkets… rather, they are little objects with soul; pieces that carry within them the memory of place, small flashbacks to where you’ve been and what resonated with you. And you want to bring that back — both for yourself and those who are important to you. Nobody wants a logo mug or an overly fragrant candle, because those types of things are not “makers of experience” — they are clutter. And no one needs more clutter in their lives.

I’ve brought home a few favorite pieces over the years. Several years ago, when I was in Holland, we visited the old city of Delft and had an opportunity to do a deep dive into the iconic blue and white pottery that originated there during the 17th century, when Dutch potters sought to imitate the popular Chinese porcelain. Within a few years, Delftware became a thriving industry, with numerous factories producing both everyday dishes and elaborate decorative pieces. Even today, true Delftware remains a symbol of Dutch heritage… and what better souvenir than that?

A trip to the Greek Islands in 2002 meant learning about the mati, or the “evil eye” talismans that have served as protection against negative energy and the “evil eye curse” for many generations. Traditionally blue and white, these Greek amulets are seen nearly everywhere on both the mainland and islands. Many of these “evil eyes” are more trinkets than collectible objects — but I managed to find a small stall where the seller was both the shop owner and the maker. This lovely gentleman was a true craftsman… mouth-blowing the glass beads that make up the eyes. It was a lot of fun picking the perfect mati to bring home.

Finally, the pigne of Sicily will forever hold a special place in my heart. From the moment we landed in Sicily last summer, these ceramic pinecone-inspired objects were everywhere… adorning patios, windowsills, and outdoor steps leading to front doors. These symbols of Sicily have traditionally represented good luck, prosperity, and well-being. Even today, these ceramic pieces are gifted to wish recipients good health, fortune, and happiness. What better souvenir than a pigna… because everyone could use a bit more good health, prosperity, and good fortune.

It’s always a fun exercise to find the perfect “something” — something meaningful, personal, and hopefully not too fragile! And ultimately, that’s what Trove is all about (well… except for the not too fragile part!). Adding objects to your home should impart an emotional response and elicit a personal connection. No one needs more mass-produced junk or meaningless trinkets; but we could all use reminders of cherished trips — beautiful objects that bring a smile every time we glance their way.