• Thank-you gifts say a lot about your appreciation.gifts. image by Iourii from Fotolia.com
  
  Finding the perfect gift to express special thanks to the loved ones in your life may seem like a daunting task, but there are plenty of appropriate and meaningful options for shower gifts, from gift certificates to picture frames to photo albums. As with the rest of the planning for the event --- be it a bridal or baby shower --- the search for the perfect favor may take a little time.
  
  

Gift Certificates

• You can purchase a gift card from a variety of retail stores and restaurants, and do not have to load it up with much: $15 to $20 is enough. Consider certificates to a store where your shower guests can purchase something like scented candles or soap, which are typically well-received.
  
  

Vases

• Show your guests your appreciation with a small vase to sit atop their dining or end tables. Buy vases in a variety of colors, shapes and sizes, and wrap them in gift bags.
  
  

Picture Frames

• Picture frames, which can be found in a variety of colors, shapes and sizes, are usually good go-to gifts for shower favors. For less expensive frames, pick out a classic sterling silver option, or a small festive frame decorated with flowers, angels or clouds.
  
  

Gift Baskets

• Gift baskets can make gift-giving easy because they can contain virtually anything. Pick out a well-arranged basket from a store that specializes in gift baskets, or add a personal touch and build them yourself. Buy items such as sample-sized shampoo and body wash, scented soap, small candles and small pieces of chocolate, and create an assembly line to put each gift together.
  
  

Photo Albums

• A photo album is an inexpensive, useful gift that comes in an assortment of sizes, shapes and colors. Purchase several different types of albums and decide which guests will receive each style. Consider matching the photo albums to the theme of the shower. For example, buy photo albums decorated with little babies if you are planning a baby shower, or with a bride and groom on them, for a bridal shower.