Valentine’s Day is the perfect holiday for celebrating the best parts of the people you love.
For anyone who loves the Bluegrass State, gifts that highlight Kentucky’s rich culture, history, and traditions can be the perfect choice for their partner.
Many Kentucky residents are proud of the state’s history, sports teams, and culture. That’s why buying a State of Kentucky themed Valentine’s Day gift—whether it's apparel or bourbon glassware—can be the perfect way to celebrate your special someone while showcasing Kentucky pride.
Looking for gift ideas to buy for that special someone this Valentine’s Day?
This guide has you covered. We’ll discuss everything from bourbon-inspired items to branded graphic tees that make the perfect gift for your special someone.
Bourbon-Inspired Gifts
Kentucky has a reputation as the home of bourbon, making it a significant part of the state’s culture. Beyond buying bourbon itself, there are plenty of other gift options for your bourbon enthusiast. Check out a few of the most popular bourbon gifts worth considering below.
Glassware
Bourbon glassware that showcases the state’s roots in the liquor can be an excellent gift for a Kentucky bourbon lover.
A Maker's Mark Distillery Highball Shot Glass is worth considering, or a Bourbon Trail Rocks Glass with Kentucky printed across the front could be a unique and timeless present.
Apparel, Artwork & Accessories
Bourbon culture runs deep in Kentucky, making bourbon-themed apparel and artwork the perfect gift for those who take pride in the state’s signature spirit.
From vintage-style bourbon t-shirts to lounge pants featuring Kentucky bourbon distillery bottles, stylish apparel lets them wear their love for bourbon wherever they go.
For a unique decor piece, consider bourbon-inspired artwork—whether it's a framed print of the bourbon legends, or a handcrafted bourbon barrel stave or barrel head celebrating Kentucky’s rich bourbon heritage.
Whether they prefer to wear their passion or display it at home, bourbon apparel and artwork make thoughtful gifts for any bourbon enthusiast.
Gift Baskets
We even put together an epic gift basket for the bourbon lover in your life!
Treat your taste buds to a Kentuckian's favorite Woodford Reserve Bourbon Balls, a sweet nod to the state’s iconic spirit. Sip your favorite bourbon from two premium rocks glasses, featuring the UK logo and Wildcat mascot for added Bluegrass pride.
Then add some fun to your wardrobe with bourbon barrel socks, a playful yet stylish homage to Kentucky’s distilling traditions.
Experiment with unique flavors using the Bourbon & Bacon cookbook, packed with recipes that combine the smoky and sweet notes of these two culinary favorites.
Ideal for bourbon enthusiasts and Kentucky fans alike, this basket delivers a taste of the Bluegrass State, making it the perfect Bourbon-themed Valentine's Day gift.
Kentucky-Themed Apparel & Accessories
Wearing Kentucky pride is a great way to celebrate the Bluegrass State, and themed apparel offers the perfect blend of comfort and style. Consider the following types of themed apparel for your loved one:
- Kentucky Derby: Nothing says Kentucky like the iconic Kentucky Derby. There are plenty of options to consider, ranging from T-shirts with classic horse racing graphics to classic artwork, and stylish earrings. Other accessories that have a subtle horse design scheme can also make great Kentucky Derby Valentine’s Day gifts.
- Louisville Cardinals or UK Wildcats: Kentucky is home to some incredible teams, and their merchandise can be the perfect choice for the right person. Make sure you know their favorite team or favorite player to show them you care about their interests.
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State-Pride Gear: Featuring a variety of stylish and high-quality items, including t-shirts, hoodies, hats, and more, this collection lets you show your Kentucky pride with flair. A perfect gift idea for Valentine’s Day featuring the State of Kentucky.
The secret to an apparel gift is finding something your loved one will actually want to wear. Luckily, we have a wide variety of options available — making it easy for you to find the perfect gift for your loved one.
Worried about whether they’ll like it or not? Don’t worry — you can always exchange it for another piece of Kentucky apparel in our store.
Jewelry with a Kentucky Connection
You can find plenty of jewelry options that allow your partner to showcase their love for Kentucky in more creative ways. A few options to consider are:
- UK Wildcat jewelry: Get your loved one gameday ready with UK Wildcats jewelry. Show off your team pride with earrings, bangles and more!
- Horse-themed jewelry: Any pieces featuring horse charms, horseshoes, or racing symbols that make a stylish statement are perfect for Kentucky Derby fans.
The right jewelry that reflects your partner’s connection to Kentucky ensures your Valentine’s Day gift is meaningful and memorable.
Home Decor for Kentucky Lovers
Gifts that bring a little bit of that Kentucky pride into the home are perfect for those who appreciate their state and its culture. Browse below for gift ideas to help your loved one decorate.
Kentucky Art and Prints
Art can be an excellent choice for the one you love, especially if they have some blank space on the wall that would be perfect for some Kentucky-themed artwork.
You can consider watercolor depictions of iconic landmarks, the derby and bourbon bottles, or photographs of the state’s picturesque countryside. Alternatively, you can buy Wildcat or Cardinal prints that can be the perfect fit for a mancave or den.
Kentucky State-Themed Decor
There’s no shortage of creative home decor options, from cutting boards shaped like the state of Kentucky to throw pillows featuring its outline. Kitchen accessories, wall art, or candles can be the right gift for someone who wants to use a little more decor in their living space.
Additionally, items made from reclaimed bourbon barrels, such as clocks or barrel staves, offer a unique blend of Kentucky pride and rustic charm.
These types of gifts directly call back to Kentucky’s signature spirit, which is a big source of pride for many Kentuckians.
Food and Drink Gifts with a Kentucky Twist
Everyone likes food, so finding the right options for your loved one that relate to Kentucky’s roots can be the right choice for your Valentine’s Day gift. A few options to consider or be inspired by are:
- Bourbon-related treats: Bourbon and chocolate are a match made in heaven. Look for locally crafted bourbon-infused truffles, caramels, or cakes to satisfy their sweet tooth. Our chocolate Bourbon Balls are an excellent choice to treat your loved one.
- Specialty Chocolates: Surprise your Valentine with the sweet tradition of Ruth Hunt Candies—handcrafted chocolates and bourbon-infused delights made with love in Kentucky since 1921.
- Kentucky-themed gift baskets: Give a gift basket filled with bourbon-infused treats, local delicacies, or UK Wildcats gear—because nothing says Bluegrass pride like a taste of tradition and team spirit!
If these options aren’t right, think about other ways to blend your loved one’s tastes with the state they love.
What’s the Right Gift for Your Loved One?
Choosing the perfect Valentine’s Day gift is about finding something personal, meaningful, and thoughtful. So, let’s break down a quick guide to help you find the perfect gift.
Start by Considering Interests
The first step is thinking about what makes your partner happy and how they spend their time. Ask a few of the following questions to ask to help you hone in on the right gift:
- Are they a bourbon connoisseur?
- A horse racing fanatic?
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Do they love vintage aesthetics or local history?
For example, a high-quality bourbon glass set or a stylish bourbon-themed shirt could be a great fit if they enjoy sipping a glass of Kentucky bourbon. Alternatively, if they never miss the Kentucky Derby, consider Derby apparel or a horseshoe-inspired piece of jewelry. Matching their gift to their passions makes it even more special.
Prioritize Practical Gifts
Nearly everyone will appreciate a gift that they’ll use, whether it’s a piece of clothing they’ll wear frequently or a glass for their nightly taste of bourbon. Similar to considering their interests, shift the focus to what they do with their time.
What items do they use frequently? What activities do they enjoy? Perhaps a cozy sweater for chilly evenings, a durable travel mug for their daily commute, or a high-quality state of Kentucky-shaped cutting board for the culinary enthusiast.
A gift that ends up being a daily part of their life is both meaningful and reminds them that you care. While practicality isn’t strictly required and sometimes might be the right choice, it’s always worth considering what your loved one might actually use.
Add a Personal Touch
Personalized gifts can make a massive difference when expressing your love and appreciation. Adding a personal touch demonstrates the extra effort and care you've put into selecting a present that's truly unique and meaningful to your recipient.
For example, a bracelet with coordinates of a special place, like where you first met, or a set of personalized bourbon glasses etched with their initials makes for a truly one-of-a-kind Valentine’s Day present.
Regardless of what you pick, a personalized gift will make a lasting impression and show your loved one how much you care.
Shop Kentucky Branded to Find the Perfect Valentine’s Gift
Kentucky’s rich culture, history, and traditions offer endless inspiration for Valentine’s Day gifts — don’t overlook them when gift shopping for your special someone.
From bourbon glassware and state-themed apparel to handcrafted jewelry and home décor, there’s something to suit every taste and style.
Ready to find the perfect Kentucky gift for your partner? Browse our Valentine's collection today to help make this Valentine’s Day one to remember.