Weddingbee Blog

When I began my search, I started out looking for a flashy sequin clutch but gradually became aware of the wealth of hand-beaded ones available online. It wasn’t long until I came across this exquisite little bag on Etsy. It was much smaller than I wanted, but the detailing was so intricate that I couldn’t help but fall in love. And the price was within budget! I contacted the seller and told her that I wanted it for my wedding, and she was thrilled to hear that it would be used for such a special event. The seller told me that it belonged to her husband’s grandmother and that it was purchased in the ’30s while on her honeymoon in Europe. I ended up being able to barter some jewelry for the clutch, so that made it all even better.

My family doesn’t have much in the way of heirlooms because of how much moving around happened generations ago. And my mom told me that we lost most of our valuables in a fire when my grandparents were living in Burma. One of the reasons I wanted something really special is because, chances are, I won’t be able to pass down my dress or my veil. (One is too big and bulky, and the other will probably be damaged through the years.) But a clutch is small, compact, and easy to store. I want to be able to give something that I used on my wedding day to my children, especially an object that had a story.

Does the flower detailing on it remind you of something? Yes, that’s right—it totally looks like a king protea!! I don’t think it was meant to actually be a protea, but I’m going to pretend that it is.

When I received this package in the mail, I held my breath as I opened it. I slowly unwrapped the faded purple velvet and…I didn’t cry when I got my dress but, for some reason, this little bag made me tear up. The craftsmanship made it heirloom worthy, and I immediately recognized this fact: I was going to hold on to this for my future family.

Will you be using any family heirlooms on your wedding day?