Spring is here, and that means it’s time for graduations. Our family was fortunate to have a graduation to celebrate this year, as my husband completed his master’s degree after three long years of hard work.
Our family wanted to celebrate his graduation with friends and family, but we didn’t feel it was necessary for the guests to bring gifts. So, the invitation stated that gifts were not necessary, and their presence would be their gift. Many guests heeded the invitation, but some did not. The most common gift was cash, but he also received champagne, steaks, some gift cards, and a couple of gag gifts (which were very funny).
But perhaps you have been invited to attend a graduation for a person receiving his or her bachelor’s degree or high school degree, and a bringing a graduation gift would be appropriate. These students are often striking out on their own by either going on to college or starting a life outside of school. Yes, graduates are always happy to get cash, but if you are looking for something a little more special, the ideas are numerous.
First there are the practical gifts. If the graduate is moving out and establishing a home on his or her own, the list of items needed is as long as your arm – towels, laundry baskets, dishes, pots and pans, kitchen gadgets, laundry soap, dish soap, etc. A few years ago, young adults often received these items as wedding shower gifts, but today many are setting up their own households, so these practical household gifts are very welcome.
However, maybe you are looking for something a little more personal for your graduate. Graduations are wonderful moments to look back on the years of study and remember not just the classes and hard work, but also on good times and friends that were made. Personalized gifts are always a good idea. An engraved picture frame, jewelry box, pocket knife, locket, or money clip can become a treasured item that brings back fond memories to the graduate. For college grads starting their careers, a business gift is a great idea. If you are crafty, and like to give your gifts a personal touch, consider making a scrapbook containing pictures and memorabilia that would be important to the graduate.
Regardless of what you give to the graduate, if he or she has a party….Go! I know there are years when you are invited to dozens of parties at a time, and it’s impossible to attend all of them. But speaking from a graduate’s point of view, there is no better gift than your presence.