Before the Ceremony

• Respect the guest list. Most schools limit the number of tickets available for each graduate. If you weren't offered a ticket, avoid taking it personally or making the graduate feel bad—it's likely out of their control.
• Dress for the occasion. Graduation is a milestone event. Choose attire that reflects the significance of the day. If the ceremony is outdoors, be prepared with sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen.
• Arrive early. Allow extra time for traffic, parking, and finding your seat. It's much more enjoyable to settle in without the stress of rushing in at the last minute.

During the Ceremony

• Silence your devices. Before the ceremony begins, turn off or silence your phone and other electronics.
• Follow the school's rules. Many schools ask guests to hold applause until all names have been read so each graduate is honored equally. Abide by those requests.
• Stay seated. Avoid the temptation to leave right after your graduate walks the stage. The ceremony is a shared experience—honor all graduates by staying until the end.
• Be mindful of photos. If you're snapping a photo or video, do so quickly and discreetly. Don't stand up, block others, or draw attention during key moments.

After the Ceremony 

• Share the space. When reuniting with your graduate, avoid crowding pathways or gathering spots—especially popular photo areas.
• Give them room to soak it in. This moment is often emotional. Let your graduate greet friends, take photos, and say their goodbyes without rushing them.

 
Whether cheering from the stands or snapping pics after the tassels turn, a little etiquette goes a long way in making graduation day smooth and memorable for everyone. Let's help make it a memory worth keeping—for all the right reasons.

Graduation season is a time of celebration and achievement for many. As an etiquette teacher, I often encounter questions about the finer points of graduation etiquette, particularly regarding the distinction between graduation announcements and invitations, as well as the protocol surrounding gifts. Let's delve into these topics to ensure your participation in this milestone event is both graceful and considerate.
 
Graduation Announcement vs. Invitation
A graduation announcement is a formal notification of the graduate's accomplishment and should be sent after graduation. It informs friends, family, and acquaintances of the individual's academic milestone, often including details such as the graduate's name, degree earned, school attended, and sometimes a brief personal message. Unlike invitations, announcements do not imply an obligation to attend any ceremony or event. They are simply a courteous way of sharing the good news.
 
On the other hand, a graduation invitation is a request for the recipient's presence at the commencement ceremony or any related celebratory event. Invitations typically include details such as the date, time, and location of the ceremony and any additional instructions or RSVP information. If you receive a graduation invitation, it signifies that the graduate sincerely hopes you can join them in celebrating this significant moment in their life.
 
Gift Giving Etiquette
One common question surrounding graduation announcements is whether sending a gift upon receiving one is necessary. While gifts are not obligatory in response to an announcement, it's a thoughtful gesture to acknowledge the graduate's achievement, particularly if they are a close friend or family member. If a gift is not in your budget, a handwritten note expressing your congratulations and best wishes can be just as meaningful.
 
If you receive a graduation invitation and choose to attend the ceremony or event, etiquette suggests bringing a gift as a token of your support and congratulations. The gift need not be extravagant. It should reflect your relationship with the graduate and your desire to commemorate their accomplishment.
 
Graduation Gift Ideas
When selecting a graduation gift, consider the graduate's interests, future plans, and practical needs. Also, establish a budget that works for you and stick with it. Here are some thoughtful and appropriate gift ideas to inspire you:

• Books: A relevant book that aligns with the graduate's field of study or personal interests can be a meaningful gift.  
• Personalized Items: Engraved pens, custom stationery, or personalized accessories add a personal touch to your gift.
• Tech Gadgets: Useful gadgets like a tablet device, laptop accessories, or a smartwatch can aid the graduate in their academic or professional pursuits.
• Professional Attire: A gift card to a clothing store or a tailored piece of professional attire can help the graduate make a polished impression as they enter the workforce. Reserve the gift of clothing for someone you are close with and know their size and style.
• Experiences: Treat the graduate to an experience they'll cherish, such as a spa day, tickets to a show or concert, or a weekend getaway.
• Financial Gifts: A monetary gift or gift cards are appropriate gifts if you aren’t quite sure of the graduates interests or needs.
  

 
Remember, the most essential aspect of gift-giving is the thought and sentiment behind it. Whether you choose a tangible gift or a heartfelt message, the graduate will sincerely appreciate your gesture of congratulations.
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Congratulations to all the graduates, and best wishes for the journey ahead!