Latest News
Collections - passing on your passion
When we refer to a “collection” we often think of stamps, coins, marbles, sports memorabilia, figurines, etc. A lot of collectors will refer to their collecting as their hobby or “passion”, and often times seek to connect with others that share that same passion. Friends, colleagues, clubs, connections on Facebook and Instagram, etc. How about family members? I hear a lot of “my family isn’t interested in this stuff.” Because, really the truth is your passion is not often times interesting to your family, especially your kids. But it doesn’t have to be that way.
So how is it we can get them to at least somewhat share our passion? Here’s a few ideas:
TELL STORIES
Schedule a time to gather with your loved ones. Perhaps just before mealtime or after. Set out some of your favorite pieces of your collection for display. Hold each piece up and give a short description of it and tell them why you like it and why you collected it. Tell how you obtained it and what it means to you. See if any of your family members can relate to your story. Chances are you’ll create new connections to those special pieces and your family members will want to retain them. At the very least, they will say “remember the time when mom/dad set out the collection and told us about it while we ate cookies? That was fun.” And you have just created a new special memory of your own.
CREATE A PURPOSEFUL EVENT
My mother-in-law, Mimi, collected tea cups and saucers. When she passed away, I claimed them. They have a special sentimental meaning to me. I decided to have a tea party in her honor. I invited all the ladies in the family including my own children and nieces over for a special tea party. They each got to pick a cup and saucer to use for the day. We had tea, ate cookies and talked about Mimi and the memories we had of her. We all laughed, cried, and had special moments of deep thought thinking of her. I intend to continue these tea parties annually, creating lasting memories of this tea set in hopes it will continue to stay in the family and continue to create wonderful memories.
GIVE A GIFT
Perhaps parting with one or two pieces of your collection now could instill meaning for someone else. Consider gifting a part of your collection to a loved one and explain the meaning, the story and why you would like the recipient to have it. Make your intentions known for the item. Your family and loved ones may not ever want your whole collection, but they will remember the special moment you gave them the piece of it. It will become meaningful to them and they most likely not part with it.
All in all, it is about the story. It is about the sentiment, not he inanimate object itself. Stuff is just stuff if we don’t know the meaning. What is the meaning behind your collections?
If you haven’t already, open your Heirloom Vault and get started documenting your stories and history of your collection(s). Your information is stored safely and securely. It’s easy to use and there is a free version, so there’s nothing to lose!
