09/30/2026
A wedding gift with a story behind every detail.
I had the pleasure of creating this one-of-a-kind chess box as a wedding gift, and this project was truly special from beginning to end.
The lid features a full-size chessboard crafted from maple and walnut, accented with a thin padauk inlay. The exterior of the box is made from cherry, with an ambrosia maple bottom, finished off with antique brass hinges and a locking hasp.
But what makes this piece truly meaningful is the story behind the design. The mother of the bride wanted to honor her daughter, an Army medic, and incorporate that part of her story into a piece that would become part of their new life together.
From the American flag and medical insignia to the personalized message inside the lid, every element was intentionally chosen to represent service, sacrifice, love, and family.
This is exactly why I love creating custom pieces. It isn’t just woodworking. It’s taking someone’s story, their memories, and the things that matter most to them—and turning them into something they can hold onto for generations.
Built with purpose. Built to tell a story. Built to last.
— OAR & OAK Tribute Designs