Something Old…
I must admit that I have developed an unhealthy obsession with vintage suitcases. It all started when I received a shower gift perfectly packaged in a retro makeup case. (thank you to the Petersen sisters for sparking my imagination, you know that always means trouble!)
Each bottle has been designated to be opened at a special occasion in our life, i.e. Champagne for “First Anniversary”, Cabernet for “First Night in New House”, even Sparkling Cider for “First Baby”. What a cute idea! The makeup case still has a working lock and the combination is 1-4-3. (for those of you who did not sport pagers in the late 90′s, 143 was code for “I love you”… how perfect!)
So naturally I fell in love with this piece of luggage and decided I had to incorporate it into my travel-themed wedding. Starting with this little beauty, I collected vintage suitcases all summer and was pleased to realize that they are surprisingly convenient to find- if you’re looking. It was almost too easy to get hooked, and my infatuation soon turned into an addiction! Of course I have to thank the “enablers” in my life: Nancy scored some in her neighborhood and Jared even went yard-saleing to support my habit. Just look at my stash!
they don't make 'em like that anymore
At the wedding I arranged them on our guest book table, and they were a hit! But now that our big day is over I can’t wait to transform these suitcases into something even more amazing. I’m thinking of all the ways I can upcycle these finds into something useful or even just beautiful. They look lovely in a stack and I’ve seen some pretty tables constructed from all kinds of retro luggage. Of course the storage opportunities are endless… but when I stumbled upon these at Vanity Case’s Etsy shop, I was over the moon.
portable powder room
The lighting in there is genius! I also love the retractable mirror. How cute would it be to have another one- hanging side-by-side in your boudoir- for jewelry? Below, we have the perfect companion to the picnic basket- the bar breifcase!
happy hour anyone?
Now my wheels are really turning…these little wonders can become a world unto themselves. I can’t wait to get started! Has anyone out there done anything interesting with vintage suitcases? I’m currently accepting all ideas (and unwanted luggage). Although I don’t have specific plans for them yet, I can’t wait to build my collection! Yes, I do think I need more. After all, I’ve heard that the first step in conquering addiction is admitting you have a problem 
6 Comments
Awesome post Aimee and congrats on the wedding! I saw a few pics on Heidi’s FB page.
I LOVE the suitcase ideas, especially the jewelry case. I once saw a post on a blog (maybe design sponge?) that was about making a dog bed out of a vintage suitcase. Bean would look adorable in one of those!
So cute! I think I am going to snipe this idea for a wedding gift I am putting together! Do you have any advice where I might be able to find them locally? (Boston area resident 
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Hi Court, SO glad you like the idea! My best advice would be to check out yard sales and antique shops. Also, don’t forget your grandmothers attic I’m on the South Shore, and have had some great luck hunting around, once they’re on your radar, you’ll be surprised how easily you can find them! When is the wedding?
Thanks so much! will be on the lookout. The wedding was actually last weekend but I am taking advantage of the “year after” rule…though I’m hoping this doesn’t take me that long!
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