Channel 4 reached out last week asking me to help answer some questions about Graduation season that is rapidly approaching!
I don’t have the replay yet from the station, but I do have a transcript of the Q&A:
Q: HOW FAR IN ADVANCE DO YOU SEND OUT GRADUATION ANNOUNCEMENTS?
A: Graduation announcements are different from invitations in that they are not an invitation to a party but an ‘announcement’ of the graduates milestone. Its sole purpose is to “announce” the news to whomever you think might be excited to know of the accomplishment. Many people may have lost track of time and did not realize that Johnny is “already” a senior. They would be excited to hear about this great stage in his life (and yours).mmYou have a window of about 3 months to mail the announcement, 4-6 weeks before the actual graduation date and then up to 4-6 weeks after is best. If you wait too long after the event, it looks like the recipient was an afterthought.
Q: AM I PRESSURING SOMEONE TO SEND A GIFT OR MONEY IF I SENT THEM A GRADUATION ANNOUNCEMENT?
A: Those who receive announcements are not obligated to send a gift. A hand-written note would be a great way to respond to the announcement, sharing your excitement for the achievement. Of course, if the recipient of an announcement would like to send a small gift, they are welcome to do so.
Q: I HAVE BEEN GIVEN ONLY SIX INVITATIONS TO MY SON’S GRADUATION? SHOULD I JUST HAVE OUR IMMEDIATE FAMILY ATTEND SINCE THERE ISN’T ENOUGH TICKETS FOR ALL THE GRANDPARENTS?
A: Yes – explain to the ‘extended’ family the limited seating and that you look forward to sharing details of the event with them when you gather for the party.
Q: HOW MUCH DO I GIVE FOR A GRADUATION GIFT? DO I GIVE MORE FOR A COLLEGE GRADUATE?
A: This is purely based on your situation, relationship to the graduate, and your budget. You can give a really thoughtful and meaningful gift that doesn’t break the bank.
Q: MY DAUGHTER REALLY WANTS TO SPEND GRADUATION WITH HER FRIENDS. CAN I PLAN A GRADUATION PARTY FOR FAMILY THE FOLLOWING WEEKEND?
A: Yes and No. Your daughter can spend time with her friends but she also needs to take time to say hello and thank you to family members who took the time to honor her by attending her event. Think about hosting another party on a different day for her friends. This will not only help spread the cheer, but create a special memory for you, your daughter, and her friends!
Q: IS GIVING MONEY TO A GRADUATE IMPERSONAL? I’M GUESSING THEY WOULD ALWAYS WANT MONEY, MONEY, MONEY.
A: Yes, money is nice, and yes it does seem a bit impersonal. If you know the graduate needs help with expenses, then YES, money can be a huge blessing. You can choose pair it with a small memento that will be a keepsake for the graduate. Place the cash in a nice picture frame, or wrap it with a keepsake pen or some personalized stationery.
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Carey Sue
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