They have been there to guide you through one of the most exciting and emotional times in your life. They ran errands with you, helped you address invitations, offered a shoulder when you needed an outlet for your frantic nerves, threw you a phenomenal bridal shower, and still looked eager to hear every detail of your latest ‘I’m-so-excited-about-my-wedding’ story. How can you find the perfect gift to express just how much you appreciate them?

Well, you can’t. It’s that simple. But with a little time and thought, you can find something memorable, meaningful, or just downright fabulous to give as a small token of your immeasurable thanks.

You of course have the timeless standbys of embossed stationery, engraved frames or jewelry boxes, and embroidered handkerchiefs – all lovely expressions. But if you are looking for something a bit more personal or creative, keep reading. We have some great suggestions that Kentuckiana’s bridesmaids are sure to treasure.

Made with Love
Consider yourself an artfully craft-y Diva? A handmade gift is a fantastic way to show your bridesmaids how much you care and is sure to be remembered. Make your maids jewelry to match their wedding ensemble or in their favorite colors. If you feel more comfortable with a brush in your hand, head over to The Artist in You or The Paint Spot and get started on personalizing with paint; a coffee mug for your most caffeinated friend, a jewelry box for a fellow diva, or any number of pieces suited for wall art await your talented touch. For those who have mastered the art of sewing, knitting, and the like, think about using your skills on your bridesmaids.

Creating gifts for your bridesmaids does double-duty for a creative bride. Your friends or family will appreciate the personalized touch, and you can use the activity to clear your mind and de-stress during a frenzied time.

Custom Creations
Want the personalized feel but don’t have the time or ability to whip something up? Several local businesses specialize in personalized, made-to-order items. Find something artsy and exquisite at Glassworks, or try Louisville Stoneware for a down-home Kentucky treat. A plate, mug, or entire set with the bridesmaid’s name, your wedding date, or personalized designs could be just the right way for her to remember this special time. A Mother’s Touch is a great jewelry choice for both bridesmaids and flower girls, with charms, beads, and engraved items from which to choose. Looking for bags or purses to stuff with presents? One local bride’s purses were such a hit with her bridesmaids that she started her own business. Cristy McMahan of Crit’s Creations designs beautiful bags to fit the style and personality of any bridesmaid, sure to be appreciated with every use.

When running your many errands, take some time to look around at Kentuckiana’s many talented vendors willing to create something special for you. Sentimental and simply wonderful!

Night on the Town
For the most cultured and city-savvy bridesmaid, tickets to a local event are sure to please. Get everyone tickets to the same venue for more bonding time after the wedding or personalize each set to the individual tastes of your friends. Louisville has a lot to offer: the Kentucky Center for the Arts, Louisville Orchestra, or any art museum for an elegant evening. Louisville Bats Baseball, Louisville Fire arena football, a comedy club, zoo membership, or concert tickets for fun. It’s a gift sure to get rave reviews.

A-Tisket, A-Tasket
You can’t go wrong with a basket. But not just any basket, one filled with the goods your girls are sure to love. Why not give girls from out of town a sampling of Kentucky’s finest? From Maker’s Mark to Derby Pie, a personalized mini bat from Louisville Slugger to Hadley Pottery, a Bluegrass basket will show her some good ole’ Southern hospitality. Looking for something more personal? Fill a basket with items meant just for her. Art supplies for the budding artist, stationery and a calligraphy set for the girl who loves to keep in touch. Lotions and bath products, candles or books, you can find just the right pieces to fill a bountiful basket. If baskets aren’t the container of choice, try a bag or carrying case that compliments the gifts inside.

Ahh…The Spa
Many brides schedule spa dates for themselves or their whole party before the wedding. To go the extra step, make it your treat. And what a treat it is! Arrange for each bridesmaid to get one personalized service of her choice along with a manicure or pedicure to finish it off. For an extra touch of class, give her a bag filled with treats like nail polish, a manicure set, lotions, or lip gloss. Who needs a thank you when the bliss will be written all over her face?

Gift Certificates
Really at a loss for what to get the girl who has everything? Pressed for time? Your bridesmaid would certainly appreciate a gift certificate to her favorite store or restaurant. This simple gesture can be given alone, tucked into a basket of goodies, or paired with any number of items to create just the right gift. The tendency is to think of gift certificates as impersonal, but that is not always the case. Getting your bridesmaid a gift certificate to her favorite store or to a venue that she has always wanted to try is more akin to giving her one of her wishes. Sometimes finding out just what would be bridesmaid’s “dream gift certificate” can be more personal than any tangible gift picked up off a shelf on your lunch hour.

The key to a great gift for your bridesmaids is to put yourself in their dyed satin shoes. Think sentimental, personal, and useful. Whatever you choose, they are sure to know that you value their friendship by the way you treat them – like royalty. Actions speak louder than gifts any day.