How Do You Handle the Grad Gift-Giving Scramble?
Graduation season means ceremonies, parties—and for some, lots of outgoing cash.
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For most high schools and colleges in the area, the tassels have been turned and diplomas have been awarded.
Before graduates go off into the world, they head to graduation parties: their own, and those of their friends.
You may find yourself invited to many of these parties this month.
So, our question to you, is, "What is graduation gift etiquette?"
If you're the parent of a grad, you have your own son or daughter's graduation to contend with, and depending on your kids' plans after graduation, those plans and parties may come with a hefty price tag. Add in the invitations to a dozen of your kid's friends' graduation parties, and, assuming you're bringing a gift, things really start to add up.
If you're invited to a party, how do you determine what to give? Does it make a difference if it's a high school or college graduation, a family member, close friend, or an acquaintance? If you receive an invitation, do you send a gift even if you can't go? What's the going rate, if you're giving cash? What is expected? What do you think should (or shouldn't) be expected?
We'd love to start a conversation about graduation gift-giving etiquette. Surely, many of us are in need of it this month!
Pat Smith
11:54 am on Thursday, June 7, 2012
This is a tough one and it's not something I think many talk about because we're afraid as coming off as cheap. But really, the way I see it is, no gift of any kind should be expected. I have been invited to three graduation parties this year including two this weekend and I am undecided on what to bring. I'll probably go with $40 and a card because I want to, not because I have to or am trying to keep up with the joneses. Grads who are good kids will appreciate whatever you give them, i'm sure.
Sheila
12:05 pm on Thursday, June 7, 2012
I think we live in an entitlement society where everyone expects something for nothing. I bring gifts and attend parties if I want to. There is no obligatory gift-giving on my part. I would be interested though in knowing what the "going rate" is these days if your'e giving cash.
Nafeesa Connolly
12:08 pm on Thursday, June 7, 2012
Sometimes It's easier (maybe not for your wallet) to remember what others have given you at your party: my dad's friend gave me a $100 and now his son is graduating so we'll most likely give him $100.
I think if they're close friends, you can make them something personal like a framed picture, scrapbook or photo collage of memories. One thing I never received, but would've been cool to, would be stuff I'd need for college like cooking accessories (especially for girls).
Student-athletes, you could get them gift cards to sports stores!
I personally think $50 or above is a great start and I when a friend/family member couldn't come, they'd send me a card with some cash inside.
Hope this helps!
Sheila
12:16 pm on Thursday, June 7, 2012
Nafeesa, good advice, thanks! I remember keeping track at my graduation parties of who gave what, so I could write "thank-you" notes. (Do people still do that?) But knowing the amount in case I'm invited to a graduation party they host is a good idea.
I love the personal gift ideas!
Danielle Horn
12:27 pm on Thursday, June 7, 2012
What about when your kid is the one graduating and all the grads are going to each other's parties? If Johnny and Sam are graduating...and Sam's parents give Johnny $50...then Johnny's parents turn around and give Sam $50...doesn't it cancel it out?