Part One: Tips for Sourcing with Storytelling in Mind

Design is in the details, and details are all about stories. From the exquisite intricacy that went into your hand-woven rug, to the memories that shape that beloved vase from your voyage to France, to the way your entryway is filled with a warmth that mimics your childhood home – there are so many layers of storytelling that go into design moments, big and small.

I feel like this two-part series all about storytelling with design has been a long-time coming. It’s inherent to how we design at AKD, so I have a million and one ideas for how you can fill your home with pieces that evoke emotion and transport you back to beautiful times. Part one of the series: sourcing with storytelling in mind.

For those of you who have been keeping up with AKD for a while, you know I have an unparalleled passion for travel, and one of the most invigorating things for me is meeting makers all around the world and sourcing beautiful pieces for our clients’ homes, our UTSS pop-up shops, or my own home.

But meaningful, story-driven sourcing doesn’t just come from travels around the world; it can also come from family heirlooms, sentimental gifts, and pieces that are already around you, but maybe just need a new life.

Let an Expert Guide Your Sourcing Abroad

I have found an endless amount of beautiful pieces during my travels, but the hunt for these gems doesn’t always come easy. Finding the perfect piece that speaks to you takes some relentless searching, an unwillingness to give up, and knowing when to ask for help.

I have found when you are traveling abroad, if you’re really serious about sourcing some incredible pieces for your home, it’s well worth hiring a guide to take you to meet artisans that are off the beaten path. These experts can lead you to makers you never would have found on your own, so you’re not only left with a beautiful new treasure, but also an incredible story.

However, if you are in a country like France, where daily brocantes (antique markets) are part of their culture, you can easily make your way around these without a guide. But be warned: if you stumble across a piece you love, trust your gut and buy it quickly; items go fast!

Lean into Your Personal Style When Sourcing While Traveling

When you choose items that are representative of the local culture, take a moment to reflect and make sure it’s true to your own personal style, too.

This is similar to how I recommend sourcing artwork; have a vision for what your style looks like, but also be open to bringing home a piece that just lights your heart on fire, even if it’s a little bit outside of what you normally have in your home. Those pieces you just can’t take your eyes off of are meant to go back with you.

Trust your gut, and go with what you love.

Have a Game Plan for Getting Your Sourced Goods Home

So now you’re probably left wondering: how on earth do I get these beautiful new pieces home? Two words: plan ahead.

I always travel with two to three extra duffle bags that I can easily check with any unbreakable pieces – but those that are more delicate don’t leave my sight in my carry-on. If you are unable to carry items home with you, many brocantes will have shippers waiting on streets that you can readily ship your products home. Heroes! And, because we’re all friends here – a secret, unknown fact is that many hotels will happily help you get your products home if all else fails.

Reimagine Your Family Heirlooms

While I love incorporating artisan-crafted goods from my travels abroad, there are many other ways to bring story-filled pieces into your home. One of my favorites: family heirlooms. We can all envision those beautiful, treasured pieces we would be so gracious to have in our homes, but let’s address the elephant in the room: sometimes, family heirlooms, as sentimental as they may be, might not be what we would choose for our design.

My piece of advice: don’t be afraid to breathe new life into it. It is just as meaningful, if not more, with a fresh coat of paint that fits your aesthetic better, a reupholstered cushion that elevates the piece, or maybe some new hardware that adds a modern touch.

Just because it is an heirloom, it does not mean it can’t be touched. Make it a piece you are proud to feature in your home, rather than a piece that holds a special place in your heart, but is stored in your basement.

(Hot tip! Stay tuned for part two where I’ll share more tips on styling family heirlooms…)

Don’t Forget About Photographs

Last but not least, never underestimate the value of a photo. A gallery wall of family photos is a beautiful and classic way to showcase your family story.

To go one step further, however, take a look at snapshots you’ve captured during your travels or in your backyard, treasured childhood photos, or even photos your kids have taken (you know…the ones where everyone has their foreheads cut off!). Photos have such beautiful stories behind them. While we so often display the professional photos, consider placing some of those more casual, story-infused shots from your camera roll in small frames on bedside tables or on bookshelves (that way, you don’t have to worry about the resolution!).