Graduation gifts are like any gifts to me: I typically don’t request anything from anyone unless they specifically ask what I want. Even then, it typically calls for the answer, “Anything is fine! I’ll be happy with whatever you get me!”
But is “anything” really fine?
If you have kind family and friends who are eager to get you some gifts, do them and yourself a favor. Build a list of potential gifts, so they can save some time thinking and you can get what you want.
Here are a few gifts I recommend for all new college graduates that you might not have thought of yet. Do yourself a favor and make a list!
- Graduation photos: Graduation photos can get expensive, girl! I know that because I’m a portrait photographer. If you’re hoping to commemorate your time in school with photos, ask friends and family if they can help with the cost. Pro tip: be sure to get some photos of you without your cap and gown on. Simple headshots will go a long way that you can use for LinkedIn and work profile pictures.
- New bedding: If it applies to you, retire the old bedding you’ve had since freshman year of college. Treat yourself to some new sheets! I see them almost like clothes you wear every night. If you want to be comfortable, I recommend some better sheets! Your future working self will thank you for doing yourself a favor.
- Thank you cards: The amount of thank you cards I’ve needed over the last few years is astounding. From new coworkers to gift-givers, the amount of cards I’ve needed always has me buying more. I now actually keep some in my handbag organizer whenever I run out. Here are some to put on your wishlist!
- Personal development books: The best thing I did for myself after graduation was read about how I could prepare myself best for my future job. Here are a few that I love available in my Amazon store that you can put on your wishlist!
- A new suitcase or nice weekend bag: I had the same travel bag all years of school. I’m going to be honest: it was tearing at the seams. If you love to travel or your work requires you to travel, I recommend a new suitcase or a high-quality commuter bag.
- Airbnb credit: Speaking of travel, one of the most useful gifts I’ve received is Airbnb credit. If you know me, you know my love for one-of-a-kind travel stays and unique experiences. If you know you’ll want to travel but don’t know where you’re going just yet, I recommend some credit! You can use it anywhere you choose for a variety of activities or stays.
- Instant Pot or Air Fryer: My life changed after owning and using both of these appliances. There’s a variety of things you can make with them and they make cooking so much fun! I promise you’ll have friends that ask about your experience using them because they’re just that good.
- Grocery delivery subscription: One of the things that surprised me when I graduated was how much time I spent at work. There just isn’t a lot of time for other activities, so even a trip to the grocery store can feel like a sacrifice when there are other fun things to do. A few friends introduced me to Thrive Market, an online, membership-based market with sustainable products that can be shipped right to your door. I keep a running cart open for pantry staples like canned beans, baking goods, and coconut milk, and it’s been a really convenient service. If you’re interested, you can try it for 30 days and get 25% off your first order! If you love it, you can mention it to a family member and get your next year’s membership on them.
- Apartment decoration gift shopping: Apartment shopping gets expensive! If you’re planning to move into a new place, I recommend asking for gift cards from your favorite shops. For me, that would be: Amazon, HomeGoods, TJMaxx, even Walmart! Here are a few favorites from Amazon that I either own or have on my wishlist!
- Cash, straight-up: If you’re truly stuck on what to ask for, cash is the best option. You can spend it on future needs, you can save it for future expenses, or you can even invest it! If you’re unfamiliar with how investing works and how you can start now, I highly recommend reading this book called The Latte Factor: Why You Don’t Have to Be Rich to Live Rich by David Bach.
Are you expecting to receive gifts for your upcoming graduation? Let me know in the comments below!
