It's that time of year: graduation. Whether high school or college graduation, it can hard to find the perfect gift for someone that has recently graduated. You want it to be more personal than a gift card and more creative than a college t-shirt but not cost an arm and a leg. Here are some of the most clever gift ideas I have seen so far this year!
1. Christmas lights with ping pong balls.
If we're going to be honest, and I'm usually pretty honest, christmas lights are the best. However, using ping pong balls and cutting a small x in them with an Exacto knife (or just using golf practice balls that have pre-made holes) is a cool way to make them more special. You can use colored or white lights, and could even paint the outside of the ping pong ball if you're feeling really creative.
2. A tie-blanket with school colors or any design your friend would like.
Maybe it's just because I'm always cold, but having a nice, soft blanket that one of your best friends made you to curl up in after a long day at school is the best.
3. Sky lanterns.
These are especially fun because they're something a group of friends can enjoy together and could even be used as a goodbye celebration. Just be careful of the fire hazard and heavy winds or wooded areas.
4. Homemade dorm decorations like paintings or a chalkboard painted canvas.
Probably the coolest idea I have ever seen was a canvas that had been painted with paint that acted as a chalkboard. You can paint the sides with normal paint or do whatever your heart desires.
5. School-themed gifts other than clothes such as game day face stickers or a water bottle.
It is pretty typical to give gifts of shirts and other clothing (and there is nothing wrong with those) but other gifts that are from the school your friend will be attending are exciting also.
6. A reminder of home such as a necklace or whatever is special about your hometown.
When I went to college I moved over a thousand miles away from home, from Michigan to Colorado. It was always a good reminder of the people that would be waiting for me when I came back when I would wear my Michigan shaped necklace or eat delicious dried cherries from Traverse City.
7. Stationery or pictures of memories.
This is a good reminder for your friend to keep in contact and write you. Also, pictures are a great reminder of all the good times you have had together and most likely will end up on his or her room wall.
While it can seem like there is pressure to find the perfect gift for someone, try not to stress out and just find something that they would like. After all, chances are your friend will just be glad you were thinking of them.
