June 1, 2017
Chances are there’s a high school or college graduate in your life this year. Sometimes it’s hard to know what to get them, aside from gift cards and words of wisdom. But Cabarrus County’s businesses are chock full of unique gift ideas that will delight your grad and support local craftspeople. Here are a few ideas to celebrate your graduate’s achievement.
The Sentimental Gift
Home Décor — Down South on Main
Down South on Main, located just a few steps from 73 & Main restaurant, stocks home décor and furniture for your browsing and buying pleasure. For the new grad, check out the merchandise that commemorates local ZIP codes or will lend a touch of charm to their new “home sweet home.” It’s the perfect touch for their next phase of life.
Heath’s Cheese Straws — Ritchie Hill Bakery
Everyone loves the taste of home, and there’s nothing that tastes quite as good as 100 years of hometown family tradition. Heath’s Cheese Straws from Ritchie Hill Bakery make for a perfect snack for any college freshman — or new college grad — who starts to feel a little homesick.
The Functional Gift
A Book They’ll Love — Goldberry Books
Whether your new grad is looking for a fun novel to relax with before starting their next step, an instructional book that can help ease them into a new phase of life or just a leg up on textbook purchases, a gift card for Goldberry Books is the way to go. It’s also a great place to pick up specialty gifts.
Locally Roasted Coffee
Cabarrus County is full of independent coffeeshops that serve up local roasts, brews and more. Your new grad will make great use of gift cards, whether it’s to stock up on coffee to brew at home or meet friends for a chat. Many of these shops support local businesses and communities, which means this is a great way to pay it forward, too.
The Fun Gift
Beautiful Beads in School Colors — The Bead Lady
A locally made necklace or earrings that matches those new college colors — or gives the finishing touch to a new professional wardrobe — is a beautiful way to remind your grad where they came from. The Bead Lady, a full-service bead shop and custom-design jewelry studio, also offers memory flower beads, so you can take fresh or dried flowers from graduation and turn them into jewelry, giving new grads a hometown keepsake of their accomplishments.
High-Speed Thrills — NASCAR Racing Experience
Mark the milestone in a major way with a ride and drive experience. There’s an option for every level of thrill-seeker, from getting behind the wheel of a real race car to riding along with a professional driver. Check out our listing of ride and drive experiences that can put the new grad in the seat of the racecar driver and give them a memory they’ll never forget.
Celebrate Over a Great Meal
Planning a party? Cabarrus County is full of great places to celebrate your new grad. Check out our guide to find the perfect place for your hungry group.
