19 Easy Ways to Show Off Your Souvenirs at Home

“When I travel, I tend to skip the cheesy souvenir shops,” says Ginnie Leeming of Hello Little Home. “Instead, I look for souvenirs that will fit in with my decor.” This beautiful hand-painted bowl adds an inviting touch to the kitchen countertop and reminds Leeming of the lively colors and surroundings she experienced while visiting Mexico. “From the beautiful ocean sunsets to the local markets, vibrant color is everywhere there,” she recalls.

Leeming also loves photography-filled coffee table books that celebrate her travels. Here, she shows off an eye-catching tabletop display created with a few of her favorite finds. In addition to colorful hardcovers, Leeming incorporates a hand-painted trinket box and vintage figurine. “Seeing these souvenirs in my home everyday instantly brightens my mood and brings back fun memories,” she says.

Why incorporate souvenirs into your decor? “The memories attached to an item are important,” says Jennifer McMurray of The Bachelorette Pad Flip. “So why pack those away when you get home? I think one should relive those fun memories as much as possible!” Here, colorful postcards are clipped with clothespins along twine that’s tacked inside a salvaged frame. The result is a bright, versatile display that can be quickly changed up in minutes. Plus, according to McMurray, it's also a great way to display Christmas cards during the holidays.

Without a purpose, says Erin Souder, owner of Earnest Home co., a travel souvenir is just a knick-knack. “If I can, I like to bring back textiles, art prints or little bowls for nuts or candy. Sometimes, if I fall in love with a piece, it forces me to think outside of the box, which is fun!” This kilim runner-turned-upholstery is a gorgeous example. “It would have been great in a long hallway,” Souder says of the textile, “but I don’t have any hallways in my house, so using it to upholster something was my next thought. A long bench showcases the pattern the best and paired well with my farmhouse dining table, so it was a win-win!”