The Oakland Press 5.29.07

Gift ideas for the graduate

pictured: graduation cards, ‘dream big’ tin bucket with posies, ‘dream’ wire word and ‘believe’ ceramic heart

by Jane Peterson

As area graduates prepare to receive their diplomas, friends and family members are pondering their options when it comes to giving gifts to celebrate this milestone.

Whether you’re looking for a gift that will be treasured for years, one that helps the graduate prepare for the next step in his or her life, or one that simply says "job well done," consider the following gift ideas for high school graduates:

School spirit– Graduates heading off to college will be thrilled to receive clothing and other items from the school they plan to attend.  Sue Kutinsky, manager at Nancy’s Linens, said popular gifts for grads at the Sylvan Lake store include bath towels, bath sheets, throws and laundry bags in college colors personalized with the graduate’s name and school letters.

Be inspired– Inspirational canvases make great graduation gifts, said Dena Gillespie, manager at catching fireflies in Rochester.  The store carries a collection of stretched canvases that feature inspirational quotes, such as Gandhi’s "Be the change you wish to see in the world."  Not only can the canvas go with any decor, the graduate also will think of the giver whenever he looks at it, she said.

Keep in touch– Whether they are headed to college or starting a new job, graduates will want to correspond with friends and keep track of what’s going on back home.  Make it easy for the graduate by presenting her with an address book, stamps and personalized stationery or a prepaid phone card.

On the road– Those moving away will appreciate the gift of luggage.  For those popping home for a weekend visit, a personalized tote bag makes a nice gift that will be appreciated, Kutinsky said.

Make a wish- Another great gift is a money pot, Gillespie said.  Once the first coin is dropped into the pot, tradition calls for feeding it until it’s full.  At that time, the owner smashes the pot while making a wish.

Consider a card– If giving cash seems a little too impersonal, think about a gift card.  Many graduates would be grateful to have them on hand for gasoline, a favorite store or the college food of choice, pizza, when running low on cash.

Treasured memories– Photo frames make great gifts for graduates as do a scrapbook or an album filled with photos.

Snack attack– Stock a gift basket with college food staples such as macaroni & cheese, peanut butter, crackers, candy bars, hot cocoa packets and microwave popcorn.

Technology rules– Fill the graduate’s college dorm room or first apartment wit high-quality sound, thanks to the i-Elegance Audio Systems offered by Sharp Electronics.  The units feature Esound, a digital signal processing technology that improves the quality of compressed digital music.

Loads of fun– Laundry is a fact of life, but make it easier for the graduate who is moving away from home by stuffing a laundry bag or basket with basic supplies like detergent, fabric softener, stain remover and the like.  For a special touch, tuck in a roll of quarters or two to lighten the financial load.

Timeless traditions– Some of the graduation gifts never go out of style.  To express your congratulations, give the graduate a fine watch, an engraved pen or special piece of jewelry.