In the blink of an eye, there it is – graduation day. Whether it’s from college or high school, it has required years of hard work and dedication and deserves to be celebrated. So what do you buy a graduate? Sometimes this can be hard to decide.
If you are going to spend your hard-earned money, spend it on something they will actually use. I have grown to love the idea of curated and handmade gift boxes and baskets. It can be hard to find that one thing that someone will love. Instead of searching for that one perfect gift you can get them a few smaller things. Individually these small items may not mean much, but together can have a big impact. These type of gift boxes are great for local as well as out-of-town grads.
To start, I ask myself what do they like? Are they a book lover? Do they enjoy traveling? Choosing a theme can make it much easier to select your items.
I have created a list themes and gift ideas that I think a recent graduate will love.
HOW TO PACKAGE
DIY Graduation Cap Box
Here is a super cute idea from The Quiet Grove box is perfect for small gifts and goodies.
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Graduation Cap Card Box
This Graduation Cap Gift Box is perfect for gift cards, jewelry, keychains and other small items.
Care Package for Long-Distance Grads
Is your grad in a different city or state? Care package gift boxes are a great way to send gifts from far away. USPS Flat Rate boxes are a great way to send gifts. For a flat rate your can fill your box with up to 70 lbs of goodies. Decorating them is also super easy with care package sticker kits
Of course you can always just keep to simple with a card, note or letter from the heart. I love picking up greeting cards for the entire year at the Dollar Tree. It's a great place to find gift wrap, packaging and party supplies.
THEMED IDEAS
Preparing for the Working World
This can be an exciting, but scary time for those leaving the (predictability) of school life and heading into the working world. Supplies and some words on encouragement can be a big help. Some great ideas for almost any (job) include:
- Note Book
- Planner
- Coffee or Tea Packs
- Tumbler / Insulated Mug
- Books
- Restaurant Gift Card
- Card or Note with words of wisdom
College Ready
With high school completed college is just around the corner. Here are some ideas to help get them college ready:
- Target, Bed bath and Beyond Gift Card
- Keychain / Lanyard
- Toiletries
- Laundry Detergent
- Snacks
- School Supplies
Relaxation
When the stress of finals is over and the graduation festivities have come to an end, your graduate will be in need of some rest and relaxation
- Tea
- Eye Mask
- Body Scrub
- Bath Soak or Shower Melts here is a great recipe
- Jade Roller
Wanderlust
After graduation many individuals are taking this time to travel and explore the world. Some fun gift ideas for your travel buff include:
- Air BNB / Airline Gift Card
- Passport Holder
- Luggage Tag
- Duolingo Subscription
- Toiletry Bag
I know gift giving can be difficult so I hope you found some good ideas here. Remember you don't have to spend a lot to make a great gift. The great part about creating your own gift is that you can control the cost. If you don't mind rolling your sleeves up and tapping into your creativity you can create a stunning and memorable gift.