If you’re still figuring out who should be on your graduation announcement list or who to invite to the party, don’t stress. MyRegistry.com has gathered all the key graduation etiquette tips you need so you can stay on top of everything—whether it’s setting up a graduation gift registry, creating your guest list, or knowing when to send a thank you note.
Why Graduation Etiquette Matters
Graduation marks a huge milestone—one chapter ends, and another begins. Gift lists (or registries) offer a way for friends and family to support the graduate with items they actually want or need. While tradition has its place, one outdated rule can go: Don’t include registry information on invitations. In today’s world, sharing a registry link is a great way to make gift-giving easier, ensuring the graduate gets exactly what they need—and more meaningful than holding onto old customs.
What Are Graduation Invitations?
Graduation invitations aren’t the same as announcements. Invitations are meant to invite people to the event—whether the commencement ceremony or a graduation party. It’s crucial to make sure the wording is clear!
While traditional etiquette discourages mentioning registries in invitations, there are real benefits to including one. Not only do you save your guests time and stress, but you also ensure that the graduate gets the gifts they truly want. In the end, this approach enhances the experience for everyone involved.
What Are Graduation Announcements?
Graduation announcements are a formal way to share the big news of a graduate’s achievement, not an invitation to an event. If you include details about a ceremony or party, send your announcements at least two to three weeks before the event. If there’s no event to attend, announcements can be sent anytime from two weeks before to up to four weeks after the ceremony.
Graduation Ceremony Etiquette
Graduation ceremonies are all about celebration, and traditional etiquette still applies here. Schools usually provide a limited number of tickets for the event, so start planning early. Once you know the date, time, and number of tickets available, begin sending out formal invitations.
Sending Ceremony Invitations
With limited space, it’s important to prioritize. Typically, tickets are reserved for close family but don’t forget to consider others who have been influential in the graduate’s academic journey. Be sure to include all the important details: date, time, location, and RSVP instructions.
Responding to Ceremony Invitations
If you’ve received an invitation to a graduation ceremony respond as soon as possible. If you can’t attend, kindly decline with a brief explanation. And if you are invited, sending a gift—even if you can’t make it—is always a thoughtful gesture.
Graduation Party Guest List
When it comes to the graduation party, the first step is to create the guest list. This will help determine the venue and budget. Be sure to involve the graduate in making the list! Generally, you’ll want to invite close family, friends, and people who’ve played a role in the graduate’s academic career.
Graduation Gift Etiquette
Receiving a graduation announcement doesn’t require sending a gift (though a congratulatory card is always appreciated). If you’re invited to the ceremony or party, a gift is expected. Gift amounts can range from $20 to $100, depending on your relationship with the graduate and your financial situation.
Why Set Up a Graduation Registry?
While traditional etiquette doesn’t demand it, creating a graduation registry is a thoughtful and helpful modern courtesy. It makes gift-giving easier for everyone involved and ensures the graduate gets exactly what they need.
Get ahead of the game by creating a personalized graduation registry on MyRegistry.com. It’s simple, stress-free, and the perfect way to ensure you get exactly what you want as you take the next step in life.
Start Your Registry Today! Setting up a graduation registry isn’t just for convenience; it ensures that your gifts are practical and meaningful. Don’t hesitate—create your list today on MyRegistry.com!
