A Day at the Sanibel Shell Show and Festival - March 7, 2026

Last weekend, Mr. Glassman and I took a little day trip to Sanibel Shell Show and Festival on beautiful Sanibel Island and what a wonderful experience it was!

The festival celebrates the incredible world of seashells with scientific exhibits, collectors from around the globe, and juried artistic displays that truly showcase the beauty of the sea.

Seeing shells in books is one thing, but seeing them in person is something entirely different. The variety was astonishing! From teeny tiny specimens that looked like delicate jewelry to enormous clam shells that felt almost sculptural, it was a reminder of just how diverse the ocean truly is.

One of my favorite parts was the artistic displays. There were intricate Sailor Valentines, beautifully decorated fashion purses, delicate hand held mirrors, and even sculptures created entirely from shells. Each piece showed a different way shells can be transformed into art.

Of course, being someone who loves beautiful objects and the stories behind them, I couldn’t help but feel inspired.

By the end of the day, Mr. Glassman and I realized we had picked up a new little hobby: collecting and displaying shells from beaches near and far. It feels like the perfect souvenir from time spent by the ocean and little reminders of the places we’ve explored together.

And now, I suspect you may see a few shells finding their way into my styling and displays at home. After all, nature creates some of the most beautiful treasures of all.

Cheers,

Annie