Tuesday, April 7, 2026

6 graduation gift ideas that also support local business

WILMINGTON — Graduations are quickly approaching; with them come the parties and the gifts. Shopping locally keeps more money in the city and supports Wilmington’s economy.  And the city has a wide selection of stores and restaurants sure to fit any personality.

Here are six gifts found locally that would show a graduate how proud you of his or her academic accomplishments while supporting local business.

A necklace from Nicoblue Boutique

Assortment of unisex necklaces found at Nicoblue Boutique that are made from copper, silver, and brassy gold wire with customizing options available. (Port City Daily Photo/COURTESY OF NICOBLUE HANDMADE CREATIONS)
Assortment of unisex necklaces found at Nicoblue Boutique that are made from copper, silver, and brassy gold wire with customizing options available. (Port City Daily Photo/COURTESY OF NICOBLUE HANDMADE CREATIONS)

Nicoblue Boutique is a 3-year-old business that just recently opened its doors at 7202 Wrightsville Ave.

This boutique markets all kinds of nautical jewelry for both men and women.

Necklaces include the boutique’s running theme of the wave, but there are also necklaces that incorporate crystals and even essential oils for aromatherapy.

 

 

 

Longwave Yoga offers SUP (Standup Paddle Board) yoga for all levels. (Port City Daily Photo/COURTESY OF LONGWAVE YOGA)
Longwave Yoga offers SUP (Standup Paddle Board) yoga for all levels. (Port City Daily Photo/COURTESY OF LONGWAVE YOGA)

A 10 class pass at Longwave Yoga

If you know a graduate who is into spiritual, mental, and physical health, your gift search may conclude at Longwave Yoga.

Boasting a friendly atmosphere, Longwave Yoga invites new and old yogis to participate in a variety of classes meant to calm and rejuvenate the mind.

If you think a recent grad could use a little tranquility after spending so much energy stressing over school assignments, passes to a yoga class could be just what he or she needs.

 

Beard Oil from Bloke

Forge & Foundry Beard Oil, which is also safe for the skin, is available at Bloke Apparel & Supply. (Port City Daily Photo/COURTESY OF BLOKE APPAREL & SUPPLY)
Forge & Foundry Beard Oil, which is also safe for the skin, is available at Bloke Apparel & Supply. (Port City Daily Photo/COURTESY OF BLOKE APPAREL & SUPPLY)

Bloke Apparel and Supply is a locally owned men’s boutique that specializes in high quality, yet casual men’s apparel.

Bear oil is a quirky present can be gifted to anyone who loves their facial hair or even suffers from an itchy beard. A little goes a long way, as it only takes a few drops to work.

 

 

 

An Earring Set from Andrea Watson Designs

These delicate studs pair well with any ensemble and come in sterling silver or solid gold. (Port City Daily Photo/COURTESY OF ANDREA WATSON DESIGNS)
These delicate studs pair well with any ensemble and come in sterling silver or solid gold. (Port City Daily Photo/COURTESY OF ANDREA WATSON DESIGNS)

This simple, yet elegant set comes from local metalsmith Andrea O’Dell, who specializes in minimalist jewelry.

These geometric earrings could be a great gift option for those who enjoy a lightweight and contemporary style.

The option to order these in sterling silver or pure gold eliminates the potential of an allergic reaction on sensitive ears.

 

 A gift card to Gravity Records

Gravity Records has a large collection of pre-owned vinyl. (Port City Daily Photo/COURTESY OF GRAVITY RECORDS)
Gravity Records has a large collection of pre-owned vinyl. (Port City Daily photo/COURTESY OF GRAVITY RECORDS)

For the recent grad who appreciates music, you might consider a gift card to Gravity Records.

As a local favorite for music lovers, this business sells vinyl, record players, cassettes and other vintage equipment.

Gravity records specializes in oldies but goodies, and also trades and buys gear as well.

 

A print from Heather Divoky Art

Piece titled “A Brunswick Beach,” by Heather Divoky, using pen, ink, marker and color pencil. (Port City Daily Photo/COURTESY OF HEATHER DIVOKY ART)
Piece titled “A Brunswick Beach,” by Heather Divoky, using pen, ink, marker and color pencil. (Port City Daily Photo/COURTESY OF HEATHER DIVOKY ART)

Heather Divoky Art is a local artist who sells prints in three standard sizes and is flexible when it comes to changing the size and material.

A graduate who loves whimsical design, lots of colors, and environmental scenes will probably appreciate the workings of Heather Divoky.

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