It’s graduation season, and that means graduation announcements, invitations, parties, and gifts. We’ve heard from so many DoSayGive readers asking what is the proper etiquette for various high school graduation scenarios. But not to worry: We have answers for all your graduation etiquette questions!
First, though if you have a rising senior, don’t forget to get our Senior Year Survival Guide – because senior year really starts May of junior year!
GRADUATION INVITATION ETIQUETTE
What is the difference between a graduation announcement and a graduation invitation?
Graduation announcements are sent to inform friends, family, and any other recipients of your child’s graduation and do not include an invitation to the actual ceremony or a graduation party. An invitation formally invites them to the ceremony.
To whom should I send a graduation invitation?
Graduation invitations — or invitations to attend the actual graduation commencement ceremony — are typically reserved for close family, so parents, and grandparents. Many schools limit the number of invitations allowed due to capacity at the ceremony venue, so be sure to double check prior to sending out invitations.
And while some schools will give actual graduation invitations to mail out, you can find many affordable options online to send on your own, either in the mail or digitally — from Minted to Shutterfly, and many more! Send invitations 4-6 weeks in advance.
To whom should I send a graduation announcement?
Graduation announcements are sent to extended family, godparents, family friends, and anyone with whom your graduate has had a close relationship — such as a family they babysat for regularly, a coach or extracurricular teacher whose had an impact on them, a Bible Study leader, etc.. You don’t necessarily need to send graduation announcements to your entire Christmas card list. Use discretion because people will feel obligated to send a gift if they receive one.
When should I send a graduation announcement?
Graduation announcements are traditionally sent after the graduation ceremony (because you are announcing something that happened, much like a birth announcement). However, some people choose to send them the month of the graduation ceremony.
Does my graduate need to write thank you notes for all gifts and gift cards?
Always the answer is yes! A timely hand-written note is always appreicated and lets the giver know the gift was actually received. Things do still get lost in the mail! Joy Creative Shop has some great options for young men and women. Use code DSG10 for 10% off.
GRADUATION GIFT ETIQUETTE
If I receive a graduation invitation, do I need to send a gift?
Yes! We have a wonderful guide to help you find a thoughtful gift. We have so many posts with various price points along with our High School Graduation Gift Guide and our College Graduation Gift Guide. Need a gift for a graduate school graduation? Check out our Young Adult Gift Guide and Keepsake Gift Guide.
If I receive a graduation announcement, do I need to send a gift?
While it should never be expected, sending a gift is the appropriate thing to do. But you do not have to spend a lot to send a thoughtful gift . Our guide has gifts in all price points and this post has great gifts starting at under $30! If you do not know the graduate well and do not want to send a gift, you can always send a lovely congratulatory note.
How long do I have to send a gift after I receive a graduation announcement?
Typically, it’s best to send a gift as soon as you receive a graduation announcement. But do send a gift within 1-2 months post-graduation date to ensure they receive it in a timely manner. However, a gift is appreciated any time!
What is the appropriate amount to spend on a graduation gift?
This is completely dependent on budget and how well you know the graduate. For close relatives (grandchild, niece or nephew, etc.), gifts may range from $50-$500. For close friends, $50-$200 is appropriate. And for acquaintances, friends of your high schooler, babysitters, or neighbors, $20-$50 is appropriate. This is just a starting point though – use your best judgment!
Who should I buy graduation gifts for?
It’s thoughtful to buy graduation gifts for close family and friends, babysitters you’ve known for a long time, and even neighbors’ children (if sent an announcement). If you have a high school graduate, you’ll want to buy gifts for their close friends as well.
Is it okay to give a gift if I didn’t receive an invitation or announcement?
Absolutely!
GRADUATION PARTY ETIQUETTE
What things should I consider when planning a graduation party?
The number one thing to consider is the date! May is filled to the brim with graduation parties, so be sure to check with friends to ensure you’re not planning a party on the same night or at the same time. Many schools have a graduation party calendar so you can double check before sending out invitations or booking a venue. Also, consider the type of graduation party you’d like to host: Would your graduate enjoy an afternoon tea or a backyard BBQ? A bigger bash or something more intimate? This will inform budget, the type of invitation you’ll send (mailed vs. digital), and so much more.
Who should I invite to a graduation party?
With any party planning, it’s best to start with your budget and go from there! Do you want a family party? Close friends of your graduate? Or a big bash with everyone in between?
Do I need to bring a gift to a graduation party?
If you plan on buying a gift, the graduation party is a great time to bring it. Many parties will have a gift table for you to drop off your gift, but if not just discreetly give it to the host so they can ensure it’s placed somewhere safe. Or you can drop off at a later date.
If I bring a gift to a graduation party, do I need to send another if I receive a graduation announcement or invitation?
No. One graduation gift suffices, whether you receive a ceremony, announcement, or party invitation (or all three).
It’s important to know your school and community’s local traditions. These guidelines are a great starting point but if you have a rising senior it’s always good to ask moms of former graduates to know how things are done at your school and be aware of any special traditions or etiquette that may be signature to your community!
We cover more senior year etiquette topics in our Senior Year Survival Guide where you get monthly emails detailing all the etiquette you need to know throughout your child’s senior year!
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