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Anyone who’s ever visited Kentucky will probably tell you: it’s pretty spectacular. From bourbon to bluegrass, and horse farms to handmade leather, the state has a style all its own.
If you’re looking to catch the lightning yourself or gift your favorite people the “best of Kentucky,” these uniquely Kentucky treasures are worth a closer look – and they can all be found right in Shelby County.
Planning your visit to Shelby County? We’ve got you covered.
Fascinators from The Polka Dotted Pineapple
Mention Kentucky, and chances are everyone around will think “Derby.” And, let’s be honest, it wouldn’t be Kentucky without the Derby, and it wouldn’t be Derby season without a fabulous fascinator.
If you’re headed to Churchill Downs (or just want to channel that Kentucky flair when the mood strikes you), your first stop should be The Polka Dotted Pineapple. Known for crafting some 600 custom hats for the Derby each year, the Shelbyville boutique is equal parts whimsy and sophistication. Shop their ready-to-wear styles online, or better yet, gift a trip to Shelbyville for a custom fitting.
Learn more about The Polka Dotted Pineapple and the history of millinery in Kentucky.
Custom Mint Julep Cups from Wakefield-Scearce Galleries
Like fascinators, the mint julep — bourbon, mint leaves, and simple syrup poured over crushed ice — is almost synonymous with Kentucky. It became the official drink of the Kentucky Derby during the 1930s when Churchill Downs began serving the minty refreshers in souvenir julep cups in 1937. Today, the mint julep cup is considered a traditional Southern gift.
Since 1947, Wakefield-Scearce Galleries in Shelbyville has been handcrafting sterling silver julep cups that are as much heirlooms as they are drinkware. Their cups are heavy in the hand, cool to the touch, and gleam with old-school Southern refinement. Each one is made using traditional silversmithing techniques, often engraved to commemorate weddings, retirements, or Derby days worth remembering.
Each cup bears an eagle cartouche and the current president’s initials — an American take on British hallmarks that dates each piece for posterity. Every president since the tradition began has received a cup, and their thank-you letters (all but one wrote back) are on display at the gallery.
Good Bourbon from Jeptha Creed + Bulleit
Speaking of juleps, no Kentucky gift list would be complete without bourbon, and two of our favorite standouts are Jeptha Creed and Bulleit. For the bourbon lover on your list, you can’t go wrong gifting a bottle or a distillery tour at either.
Owned and operated by mother-and-daughter duo Joyce and Autumn Nethery, Jeptha Creed is redefining “grain-to-glass,” offering up Kentucky heritage with each sip. The family-run distillery grows its own heirloom corn — called Bloody Butcher — for a rich, smooth flavor that’s distinctly Kentucky, while their Straight Bourbon Whiskey is complex and warm, with just enough spice to keep you coming back for another sip.
And if you’re looking for classic Kentucky smooth, Bulleit Bourbon is a fine go-to. Distilled in Shelby County with a high rye content, it’s bold, spicy, and perfect for Old Fashioneds or sipping neat on a chilly evening.
Horse Gear from Shelby Horse Supply
With rolling hills, racecourses, and endless wide-open spaces, Kentucky is a mecca for horse lovers. For equestrians and enthusiasts alike, Shelbyville-based Shelby Horse Supply crafts fine leather goods from American hides, using traditional methods to make everything from bridles and halters to belts, bags, and home décor.
And even if you’ve never set foot in a stable, you’ll find a wide assortment of leather goods like belts, key chains, and dog collars, all of which make thoughtful, long-lasting gifts.
Kentucky-made gifts carry stories — of craftsmanship, tradition, and pride of place. So the next time you need a present that speaks volumes, skip the mass-produced, head to Shelby County, and go for something that could only come from the Bluegrass State. After all, there’s nothing quite like Kentucky charm — especially when it comes gift-wrapped.
This article is presented in partnership with Visit ShelbyKY, a Modern South Founding Partner.
Keep shopping for more Southern-inspired finds here.
