From personalized water bottles to a brewery tour, these items will surely leave a lasting impression.

by Alex Karlesses

While planning the big day, don’t forget to take some time to thank the ones that have helped you along the way. If you have a big group to buy for or are just downright stumped on what to get them, check out these ideas that will show your favorite guys and gals how important they are.

For your bridesmaids:

1. Cooking classes

This could be a fun night for the entire bridal party, or you can purchase solo classes for each of your maids. Chef Mark Eastman of Chefs’ Haven in Hockessin offers a large variety of classes to fit everyone’s level of cooking and tastes.

For more information, visit www.chefshavende.com.

2. Spa packages

For the bride who likes to pamper, treat your girls to a day at the spa. For a spa with a view, check out the Ocean Retreat Day Spa in Lewes. Get the most bang for your buck with their Mini-Holiday package, which includes a mini-facial with a 30-minute massage, a manicure, pedicure and a wash and style for your hair. The service takes approximately two and a half hours and is $165.

For more information, visit www.oceanretreatdayspa.com or call 645-6868.

Photo via Heart and Home

3. Cosmetic bags 

A perfect gift for any bridesmaid, cosmetic bags come in all shapes and sizes and can be monogrammed with their initials. For a uniform and preppy look, check out the Scout collection available at Heart and Home. They have all sizes and several patterns to choose from.

Visit www.heartandhomede.com for more information and product selection. Visit one of their three locations in Newark or Wilmington.

4. Weekender bag

Photo via Christine Kendle and Carrie Pauley

This is the perfect gift for a girls’ getaway or before you head off to your bachelorette party. Travel in style with this super chic and convenient bag by Wholesale Boutique, which can be customized with several styles of monograms and different colors. It includes an inside zipper pocket, an adjustable strap and gold accents. These cute and useful bags are sold at the Pink Turtle, located at 3801 Kennett Pike, Greenville, Del.

For customization options and pricing, visit their website at www.thepinkturtlestore.com.

Maryeah Pavey

5. Water bottles 

This gift is a great option for your eco-friendly friends. S’well bottles come in plenty of different patterns, colors and sizes. S’well bottles can be found at the Bel Boutique in Dover.

For colors and customization options, visit their website at www.belboutique.com.

For your groomsmen:

Photo via Romanick Pottery

1. Engraved/personalized beer stein

Whether they use it to store their golf tees, or to sip their favorite beer, a customized beer stein is a great way to give your groomsmen a fun and functional gift. For inspiration, visit Romanick Pottery shop in Newark for their large selection.

For more information, visit www.romanickpottery.com.

2. Tour of 16 Mile Brewery 

Photo via 16 Mile Brewery

What better way to spend an afternoon than taking the guys for a tour of the 16 Mile Brewery? Based in Georgetown, the tour offers an inside look at the beer making process (with plenty of samples as well). Tours are available Fridays and Saturdays from noon to 3 p.m.

For more information and for booking, visit www.16milebrewery.com/visit-us/public-tours.html.

3. “Beer Bites” Cookbook

From sliders to a wide variety of desserts, this cookbook has over 100 recipes, all made with beer. Even if your groomsmen aren’t the greatest cooks, this may inspire them to take their chef skills up a notch. Pick a copy up at Wilmington Country Store, located at 4013 Kennett Pike, Greenville, Del.

4. T-shirts

What man doesn’t have a large collection of t-shirts? You can customize them if you wish, or purchase a shirt that represents an interest that you all have in common. This one from Shorebreak in Rehoboth is perfect for a beach-themed wedding.

To order or to view additional merchandise, visit Shorebreak’s website at www.shopshorebreak.com.

Photo via Rainbow Records

5. Records

A gift that keeps on giving, give each groomsmen a record that they will love. Whether it’s heavy metal or easy listening, be sure and pick out a record that suits their taste. Check out a wide variety of records and even record players at Rainbow Records, a Main Street staple in Newark.

For more information on available products, visit www.rainbow-online.com.

Jupiter Records in Wilmington also has a huge selection on all your favorite albums. Be sure to check them out on Facebook for all their latest deals and shipments.