It's that time of year again and graduation parties abound. College and high school grads are partying up a storm and your weekends are planned around ceremonies and celebrations. On a budget? You can bring that special graduate a card with money, or you can give them something they'll use when they move into that new house or dormitory, and that they'll remember you by. Of course, what you get this person depends on his or her tastes and lifestyle. Former athlete? How about a comfy thick yoga mat? Many universities offer free yoga classes, and this will help your friend stay focused in his or her classes and avoid the freshman 15! There are many mats out there you can get for around 20 bucks.
And, let's not kid ourselves -- college kids and post-grads the world over celebrate with parties and libations. These celebrations may even carry on throughout the year. How about some cool barware or matching flask and martini glass? Bringing your own closed-container alcohol to the party is pretty smart these days, and your friend (or niece or nephew) will think of you every time they use it!
Maybe you'd like to go more of the sentimental route. You can get some pretty cool photo gifts made nowadays that will again, be under 20 bucks. How about an 8x10 framed collage showing all the good times you had together or funny old photos from elementary and high school activities? You could do the same with a coffee mug or photo coasters. These may even run you around $10 and you can do them for all your friends so they'll each have a personalized, usable gift from you. Everyone moving on to college needs a coffee mug reminding them of the good times back home.
Lastly, do you know of any larger gifts they'll be receiving? New laptop, camera or Wii? You could get them something to complement this new gift like games or software. This may run you a bit more, but if you're going to be around this person after graduation, chances are you'll get to play the game too!
These are just a couple ideas, but you get the picture. You don't have to shell out tons of cash during graduation days. Just get that special someone something that celebrates the next step in their life's journey, and that they'll use, and you're good!
