Greer's OC

Valentine’s Day may be fast approaching, but there’s no need to stress over planning a special day for your special someone. From personal gifts to gourmet treats, the shops at SOCO have everything you need to put together a thoughtful Valentine’s Day in a snap – You’ll even have time to pick up a little something up for yourself.

If picking out the perfect gift is still on your to-do list, Lili Claspe Jewelry offers stunning women’s accessories made from vintage or handmade pieces and one of a kind gemstones. Each piece is individually handmade and a thoughtful way of showing your sweetheart just how special she is.

Also located in SOCO’s OC Mix is Cloth & Metal, a top shopping destination for the modern gentleman that offers everything from clothes and shoes to shaving kits and bicycles. With a carefully curated selection of the finest products to choose from, their knowledgeable team can help you find the perfect gift – even for the hard-to-buy-for man in your life.

Preparing your own delicious Valentine's Day dinner? Visit SOCO’s specialty food shops like We Olive and The Cheese Shop, which offer selections of fine wines and artisan cheeses. Put together a tasty charcuterie plate or include them in your recipe for a romantic dinner at home.

If you don’t feel like putting your own culinary skills to the test, SOCO is also home to many award-winning restaurants that would make for a memorable night out with your Valentine. Start with a glass of wine at We Olive before heading over to ARC Food & Libations, Iron Press, Taco Maria, or Shuck Oyster Bar for a gourmet meal made by some of Orange County’s most renowned chefs.

And because Valentine’s Day wouldn’t be complete without a sweet treat, make sure to visit Michelle haut Chocolate. Michelle’s limited edition Valentine’s Day collection includes specialty truffles and a chocolate bar layered with 23k edible gold. Just don’t feel bad if you end up buying one (or more) for yourself – a smart shopper like you deserves it!

For more information on Valentine’s Day shopping at SOCO Collection, visit shoptheocmix.com and sococollection.com.

3303 Hyland Ave. in Costa Mesa
 

Camp Project Hope

You’re invited to Camp Project Hope, a free, family-friendly event happening at SOCO in Costa Mesa on Sunday from 5 to 9 p.m, hosted by the non-profit Project Hope Alliance.

Camp Project Hope is all about having families discover and celebrate how as a community, they can end childhood homelessness in Orange County.

Guests will experience an evening of great family fun including interactive art and live music.  Enjoy a slider station, and s'mores and hot chocolate bar while listening to classical, contemporary and children's choir musical artists.  Most importantly, there will be a 214 sf. motel display to help you learn how many families live in Orange County and find out about the ways that you can make a difference in the lives of homeless children in our local community. 

Project Hope Alliance provides homeless children with the unique tools and opportunities they need including housing, educational support and family stability, to end the cycle of homelessness. They serve over 400 children attending 39 schools in 21 cities throughout Orange County. Project Hope Alliance is resolved to end homelessness for 500 children in Orange County in 2014.  

 Chuck Jones Center by 24 Carrots at SoCo Collection 3321 Hyland Ave. in Costa Mesa. RSVP at Projecthopealliance.org