Gift Guide For Grads

By Lauren Wulf

Teens and young adults this time of year are beginning to get the proverbial glazed look in their eye of senioritis. Graduation cakes will soon be cut, yearbooks signed and the endless parade of graduation parties has begun. Celebrate their accomplishments with gifts they actually want. If all else fails, cold hard cash is always a party favorite.

For The Techy

Vivitar Tech Accessories
Sold at Walmart, Target and Staples
www.vivitar.com

Clutch Case For iPad

For the fashion conscious, tech savvy gal, this case is as stylish as it is functional. The iPad clutch from Vivitar is made of soft material that won't scratch the screen and has a metal clip for extra protection.

Power Duo

When the grad already has all the gadgets, the power duo is an easy accessory idea. You can never have enough chargers and docking stations to keep the lifelines going at all times. This is handy duo is perfect for dorms, trips and everyday charging. Charge your iPad, iPod or iPhone all at the same time and save energy when it's not in use. This one's a keeper.

For The World Traveler

Kohl's / Macy's
Various Chicagoland Locations
www.kohls.com
www.macys.com

OK, so luggage might not be the most exciting gift idea on the planet. A good set of luggage however, can last for years. From semesters abroad, weekends at school, business trips, vacations and of course, trips home, they'll get plenty of wear and tear. A couple places that have great sales on luggage are Kohl's and Macy's. Lookout for sales and specials after the holidays or in the spring for the best deals. They'll thank you for these later.

For The Punctual

Michael Kors
900 North Michigan Avenue
Chicago, IL
www.michaelkors.com

If your grad is like most students, they may not be the most punctual. Get them ready for 8:00 a.m. classes or job interviews in the real world with a new watch. A watch is a classic gift that will last for years. Here are a couple his and hers picks from Michael Kors.

His: Men's Chronograph Everest Stainless Steel Watch (45mm)

Hers: Women's Chronograph Hudson Rose Gold Tone Stainless Steel Watch (35x32mm)

For The Party Animal

Personalization Mall
Burr Ridge, IL Online only
www.PersonalizationMall.com

Personalized Banner

Create your own custom banner to congratulate the graduate or announce the party. Banners can be customized with 3 lines of text. The vinyl banners can be used indoors or outdoors. Priced around $22, these banners are an easy way to give your party a personalized touch.

Personalized Cocktail Napkins

Nothing says congratulations like an adorable little napkin with the graduate's initials on it. Personalized themed napkins are great for adding a signature touch to parties and celebrations. Napkins feature your choice of 3 designs, on any 2-line personalization you choose. Available in 4 imprint colors.

Custom Shot Glass

At some point or another, all college students go through the joys of a messy roommate, an abundance of student loans or horrible statistics course, just to name a few. The "College Troubles" Personalized Shot Glass is the perfect cure for all (for students 21 and over). Each line can be customized and includes their name in the tag line. Cheers and good luck to the grads, you're going to need it.

Lauren Wulf, CBS Chicago

Lauren Wulf writes about living in Chicago on a budget on her website, A Poor Girl's Guide Chicago.