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Best Places In OC For Graduation Gifts

University Of Birmingham Hold Degree Congregations
(credit: Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)

The days and nights of cramming for exams, writing research papers and binging on coffee are finally over. That grad in your life will finally walk down the aisle toward a future of opportunities. Celebrate this special achievement with a memorable expression of your pride. A gift for your grad can come in all shapes and sizes. Get creative and pull out your pocketbook at one of these OC stores with great gifts for grads.

Spa Gregorie
(credit: Spa Gregorie)

Spa Gregorie's
22342 El Paseo, Suite F
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688
(949) 858-9455
www.spagregories.com

After four or more years of hard academic work, it's time to let your grad unwind by treating him or her to a relaxing facial or massage at this popular day spa and salon. A generous gift card will serve as the ticket to this incredible retreat. Encourage your grad to indulge in a body wrap, microdermabrasion, hydrotherapy or a manicure. This spa provides all kinds of treatments to cleanse, purify, detoxify and relax your mind and muscles. Spa Gregorie's offers lunch as well as private group spa programs so you and your grad can enjoy a little pampering together.

Related: Best Day Spas In Orange County

Jim's Music Center
(credit: Jim's Music Center)

Jim's Music Centers
14061 Newport Ave.
Tustin, CA 92780
(714) 669-3600
www.jimsmusic.com

Now that your grad has some extra time to pursue a few hobbies, why not surprise him or her with a new or used Taylor or Martin guitar from Jim's? Even if you don't know much about buying musical instruments, a friendly and knowledgeable sales rep will take the time to walk you through your options. Unlike the big chain stores, Jim's can offer you great deals on most of the inventory year-round, without having to wait for one of those annual "blow out" sales. With a unique selection of acoustic and electric guitars, drums, keyboards and even ukuleles, you're sure to find the perfect gift for your gifted grad.

Retail Sales Rise In October, Pushed Higher By Electronic And Appliances Sales
(credit: Scott Olson/Getty Images)

Samy's Camera
3309b S. Bristol St.
Santa Ana, CA 92704
(714) 557-9400
www.samys.com

Help your grad capture the many special moments that will await him or her in the future with a new camera from Samy's Camera. Forget that smartphone camera. Samy's has one of the largest selections of cameras in Southern California. Choose from a point-and-shoot to a professional DSLR with lenses and accessories to make any photographer envious. Is your grad interested in making movies? You can choose from a huge collection of video equipment for the amateur or professional in your life.

the bike path shop
(credit: The Path Bike Shop)

The Path Bike Shop
215 W. 1st St.
Tustin, CA 92780
(714) 669-0784
www.thepathbikeshop.com

Whether your grad is off to college or off to work, a bike is a green and cost-effective way to get him or her there. Consider a road or mountain bike as a gift for your new graduate and stop by The Path Bike Shop in Tustin. This one-stop local bike shop offers more than 400 bikes and frames in its inventory and can even custom-build your grad's bike. Choose from Cannondale, Giant, Rocky Mountain and many other high-end bicycles. If your grad already has a great bike, consider a gift certificate for repairs from The Path's stellar service department.

Otto
(credit: OTTO Shop & Gallery)

OTTO Shop & Gallery
111 E. Commonwealth Ave.
Fullerton, CA 92832
(714) 526-3142
www.shopotto.com

If you're looking for a unique grad gift without having to break the bank, check out this cool and hip shop in downtown Fullerton. OTTO offers a fun collection of art and design items priced to fit any budget. You'll find Paul Frank items, Uglydoll plush toys, unique books and original art from local artists. Even if your grad isn't an art lover, he or she will appreciate the novel and modern designs of OTTO's lamps, furniture and clocks.

Related: Best Adventure Experience Gifts In L.A.

Truc Dever is a freelance writer covering all things Orange County. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.

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