INDIANAPOLIS — Graduations are milestones celebrated by many families, many times. When a student moves up from preschool, kindergarten, elementary school, middle school, high school, college, or professional school, we acknowledge their hard work.
Parents, especially, can feel the pinch at this time of year.
Cherie Lowe, the Queen of Free, shared some ways you can give meaningful graduation gifts without going overboard Sunday on 13Sunrise.
Collections
Letters and books tend to carry a longer, more meaningful message to a graduate than a meal or gift card.
In her blog, Cherie suggests, "Reach out to significant people in your graduate’s life and ask them to write a simple letter."
These can come from teachers, coaches and friends. Then put them in nice envelopes and a keepsake box.
You can do the same thing with a collection of books from people your graduate admires. Some might buy a new copy of a book that influenced them, while others might give the one they read, inscribed with a note to the grad.
Buy cards in bulk
Cherie said you can buy online commercially or from unique artists on Etsy.
"Don’t forget to jot down a list of graduates you plan to send cards to so you purchase enough," said Cherie.
$5 gift cards
"Even your small gift is significant," Cherie said. "Whether it’s for a Starbucks run or to buy shampoo at Target, a $5 gift card is certain to lift the graduate’s spirit. Any gift is a good gift."
Think ahead
For parents of juniors, start planning now for your graduate, and all their friends that will be graduating, too. Start saving and collecting now so you won't be overwhelmed next spring.
Watch Cherie's full 13Sunrise segment in the video player.