Diane Gottsman | Leading Etiquette Expert | Modern Manners Authority

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Celebrating Your Graduate | 11 Graduation Gift Ideas

25 Apr 2022 By: Diane Gottsman

graduation gift ideas | A group of multietnic students celebrating their graduation by throwing caps in the air closeup. Education, qualification and gown concept.

If you’ll be celebrating a graduate in your life very soon, their college experience likely took many twists and turns due to the pandemic. Earning a degree is always worthy of a special acknowledgment, and they will undoubtedly appreciate a thoughtful gift after having come out on the other side of multiple lockdowns, masking up, quarantining and more. If you’re not sure what to pull together for your grad, the graduation gift ideas below may be a good starting point for some inspiration. Don’t forget a heartfelt card with your best wishes.

11 Graduation Gift Ideas

Cash

Graduation gift ideas | Cash, Graduation cap and roll of dollars.

Currency is still king when your student is preparing for this next phase in their life. Opt for clean, crisp bills in a lovely card designed for cash. There are other ways to get funds to them—and surely they will be happy to receive—but sending money via an app, for example, doesn’t feel as formal for such a momentous occasion.

Books That Made an Impact

I love the idea of gifting a small collection of meaningful books as they move into this new, exciting phase of life. One such book is Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life…And Maybe the World. With over 25,000 reviews, I am not alone in my sentiments about this uplifting book. Here is an excerpt: “Life is a struggle and the potential for failure is ever present, but those who live in fear of failure, or hardship, or embarrassment will never achieve their potential.” Inscribe your thoughts on the inside cover before wrapping each book.

Meal Delivery Service, Kitchen Staples

Laughing black couple preparing healthy salad together in loft kitchen. Young family cooking dinner

Aspiring chefs can often use a little help when it comes to meal planning and prep. A meal delivery kit such as Hello Fresh may be just what your graduate needs to break out their saucepan. There are so many services available; do your research and find one that meets their dietary needs and favorite cuisine. Including a set of pots, pans or other kitchen essentials makes for a fun presentation.

Leather Portfolio

Graduation gift ideas | Brown leather business padfolio portfolio folder on sunny white office desk with computer and tablet

A leather portfolio adds instant sophistication in a business setting. I recommend a classic color such as navy or walnut brown. Adding their initials in gold (or embossed into the leather) is a beautiful finishing touch. Be sure the padfolio fits a standard legal pad and pen.

Wireless Headphones

Sounding crystal clear on countless conference calls is a must, which is why I’ve included a new set of wireless headphones on this list. Check the reviews and include a case for extra protection.

Travel Essentials

Big travel suitcase on background

Every young professional needs a good quality set of luggage for business trips. A nice carry-on bag or roller suitcase is a good place to get them started. A monogrammed tote designed to fit a laptop will also get plenty of use.

Classic Watch

Graduation gift ideas | Silk tie, watch with a black leather strap, cufflinks, handkerchief and leather belt with metal buckle on black background. Accessories for men. Top view.

A fine watch allows a graduate to express their style while communicating they prioritize punctuality. In a sea of smartwatches, a nice timepiece stands out. Commemorate the occasion with a message on the case back if you think they would like this customization.

Small Pocket Knife

Both my son and husband love their pocket knives and reach for them regularly. They’re utilitarian and come in handy for all sorts of occasions. Remind the recipient to leave them at home when going through the airport or security. This is another gift that is fairly easy to personalize as well.

Multi-Device Charging Pad

Help them stay connected and fully charged with a multi-device charging pad. I came across the Courant Catch in a recent Vogue article. Find one that fits your budget and their personal taste.

Personalized Stationery Set

I couldn’t wrap up a list of graduation gift ideas without mentioning personalized stationery. It’s always in style and will be put to use right away. Get their stationery collection started with a simple, classic set in ivory and gold or black and white. This New York Magazine article may be a good place to begin your search.

Meaningful Jewelry or Artwork

For graduates with loads of school spirit, consider the gift of art or jewelry. Etsy is a great place to begin, especially when you are searching for a piece with personality. Search “College Town Art” and see if anything catches your eye.

For more information about working with Diane, America’s “Go to” social and professional (manners) skills authority, please visit The Protocol School of Texas.

You may also like Graduation Party Manners: In-Person Celebrations. See what Diane is up to by following her on Instagram and Facebook. Find etiquette inspiration on her Pinterest account and keep up with her latest tweets. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips, refer to her posts on Inc. and The Huffington Post. 

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Diane Gottsman

Diane Gottsman is a national etiquette expert and modern manners professional, sought out industry leader, television personality, accomplished speaker, Huffington Post blogger, author, and the owner of The Protocol School of Texas, a company specializing in executive leadership and etiquette training. Diane is routinely quoted in national and international media including The New York Times, The BBC, CNN, Bloomberg Business Week, Kiplinger, Huffington Post Canada, U.S. News and World Report, and Forbes. She is the resident etiquette expert for two popular morning talk shows, SA Living and Good Day Austin. She has been seen on The TODAY Show, HLN Headline News, WGN Chicago, and CBS Sunday Morning. Her clients range from university students to Fortune 500 companies and her workshops cover topics ranging from tattoos in the workplace to technology at the dinner table and the proper use of social media.