Gift giving guide for Graduation

Graduations are a great milestone, and they usually require a gift. The most common, and often expected graduation gift is that of money. However, this does not mean you have to give such a gift. The following are a few ideas for appropriate graduation gifts that are not just cash:

Gifts under $50:

Clothes

Most people that graduate from college then enter the workforce, and the style of dress for a professional is far different from that of a college student. Helping the graduate have a few appropriate items to wear to their workplace can be a thoughtful, and practical gift. Consider getting some nice slacks, black socks, or button down shirts and ties for the graduate, or a gift card to a store that has high quality apparel.

Wallet

This can be a fun gift to give because you can include a note that says it is for all the money they should be getting as gifts. It can also symbolize that they will now be off to get a job, with a paycheck. A nice wallet can be a fun, practical, and unique graduation gift.

Celebration gifts

Usually a person has to work really hard to get through school so that they can graduate. Often a gift that encourages them to go out and do something fun is ideal. They may not have had the time, funds, or ability to go to movies, to take a relaxing day at the spa, or similar things. Giving a gift card for a pedicure, movie tickets, or just a basket full of games and other fun things to do and eat can be a great gift.

Alumni gear

Another fun gift idea is to give a blanket with the school mascot monogrammed on it, an alumni sweatshirt, alumni license plate frame, etc. Give them some sort of memento to remember their years at school.

Gifts over $50:

Vehicle

A new car can be a wonderful graduation gift. It helps the graduate get out the door and have transportation to go to and from job interviews, work, etc. without the burden of a car payment. A car is a traditional gift for graduation from high school, as many college students need a way to get around. However, a car works for any graduation.

Suit

A full suit is a great graduation gift, even for a female. A suit is going to make a great impression on potential employers, and is going to help the graduate feel confident and professional.

A vacation

Usually the last few months before graduation can be extremely stressful and busy. So, give the graduate the gift of relaxation by sending them on a vacation. It can be something big like a trip to Europe, or something small like a weekend getaway at the nearest resort town. The point is, a little break can be a perfect gift.