Creative and Meaningful Memory Box Ideas

Memory boxes provide the perfect solution for remembering loved ones, capturing milestones and preserving your memories. Whether you are looking to create a memory box in dedication to a loved one or in memory of a special event, this article will provide you with a diverse range of memory box ideas and special tips to make your boxes extra special. 

We’ll also guide you through how to make memory boxes step by step. From choosing themes and picking items to go inside to engravings and design. 

Why are memory boxes important?

Memory boxes are a great way to reflect on your memories while also sorting through what you’re ready to let go of. They can also be a great way to begin the healing process after losing a pet or a loved one.

They are also a great gift idea if someone is reaching a milestone, celebrating a big event or anniversary, they can be filled with lots of memories and items to look back on in years to come. 

Choosing what to put inside a memory box

There are so many items you can choose from when looking at how to make a memory box. Here are some of the most common items to include:

• Photos
• Letters
• Ticket Stubs
• Souvenirs
• Art
• Pressed Flowers
• Journals
• Coins
• Newspaper clippings
• Greeting cards
• Awards

It’s important to consider whether items are moisture sensitive and whether they may degrade over time. More delicate items should be stored in a secure place, away from damage.

Memory box ideas by theme

There are so many fun and creative memory box ideas to choose from. We’ll break these down by theme to help give you some inspiration.

Life milestones and celebrations

• Baby memory box: ultrasound photos, first clothing, hospital ID bands
• Wedding or engagement memory box: invitations, vows, photos, honeymoon tokens
• Graduation memory box: diploma, tassel, cards, awards 
• Birthday or anniversary box: cards, candles, tags, coasters

Travel and adventure boxes

• Vacation-themed: maps, boarding passes, trinkets, sand, seashells, menus 
• Travelling memory box: cherished items, family mementos, letters

Pet or bereavement memory boxes

• Pet remembrance: collar, toy, photos, fur, blanket
• Bereavement: personal belongings, cherished items, photographs 

Personal and therapeutic themes

• Life journey: sensory items, newspaper clippings, personal mementos 
• Multi-sensory boxes: textures, smells, sounds like music boxes or lavender scent 
• Seasonal or hobby boxes: ornaments, seasonal keepsakes, hobby-related memorabilia 
• Nature’s treasures: rocks, feathers, nature-inspired objects 

How to make memory boxes

Now that you have your memory box idea, it’s time to learn how to make your memory box. We’ll break this down into steps you can take to achieve your very own memory box.

1. Choose your box

This can be one of the hardest choices to make, deciding what you want to create your memory box in. There are so many choices to consider, including:

• Vintage suitcase
• Wooden chest
• Shadow box
• Glass jar
• Personalised box
• Woven basket

Once you’ve chosen the box, it’s time to decorate your memory box. 

2. Decorate your memory box

This is one of the best parts of creating your own memory box. Decorate it with any designs and ideas that you can think of. From custom engravings to fabric, maps, patchwork or paint, there are so many ways to make your memory box unique.

You could even cover the outside of the box with a collage of photographs to add further sentimental value. Let your creativity come out here and decorate your memory box in the way you feel best represents the memory box.

3. Fill your memory box

Once you’ve chosen your box and decorated it, it’s time to fill your box with all of your memories. Whether you are adding photographs, toys, jewellery, letters, cards or clothes, make sure each item has a note or a label so in years to come you’ll be able to go back and read through all of your memories with more detail.

Here at Magenta Self Storage, we understand the importance of your sentimental items, it’s more than stuff and so we provide affordable and flexible personal self storage for all of your requirements. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help preserve your sentimental items.