The "Thank You Paddles" that new initiates to a sorority have traditionally given their big sisters are a great way to show your appreciation. Choose a paddle from your local Greek supplies shop or university bookstore. They come in a variety of sizes, but the biggest paddles are often the best choices when you are trying to show appreciation. Get personal with your paddle design. Choose a color that your big sister will love and incorporate both of your names, as well as your Greek letters, into your paddle design.
Sorority paddles are also commonly given to new initiates by their big sisters instead of the other way around. If you are a big sister who is planning on giving her little sister a paddle on her initiation night, choose a paddle that you know she will love. Paint the paddle with your sorority's colors as a way to honor the symbolism that is so important on initiation day. Include both of your names on the paddle, as well as the initiation date, so that she will always remember this special day in her life.
Birthday paddles are another common tradition among sorority women. If one of your sorority sisters is turning 21, make her a paddle that she can bring out to the bar with her on their birthday, so that everyone will know its her special day. The paddle should be decorated in her favorite colors, or with some kind of symbolism that really captures the essence of your sister. Don't forget to write "Happy Birthday" on the paddle.
Many sorority women struggle with leaving their sisters and the place they have called home when it comes time for them to graduate from college. Creating a graduation paddle for your sorority sister to take with her as she leaves the house is a great way to help her realize that your bonds will remain strong even after graduation. Many Greek supply stores have graduation icons that can be glued to the paddles. Have all of your sorority sisters sign the paddle, so she will always remember her sisters as she moves on.