6 Alternative ways to make graduation celebrations special

When celebrating such a monumental achievement, it is important to look past the immediate excitement for impactful celebration.

Adding to the graduand's excitement and joy can be how loved ones share the moment.

The conventional way is usually a big neighbourhood party.

Here are other ways to celebrate graduation.

1. Throw a low-key party

Have a small surprise dinner or brunch out with family, family friends, and his/her closest friends. Rather than splashing cash on a party, create meaningful and memorable moments. You can do a joint intimate event with his/her friends who are graduating. Some people may not be able to throw a party, so this is a nice way to celebrate with and for them.

2. All-expenses-paid trip

Nothing beats a trip to see the world that has just opened up for a graduand! Take the money you would have spent on a party and give them an experience they will always remember. It is also a nice way to go on vacation after fruitful hard work. It can be two weeks or even one, a road trip, or a cheap but nice location with their friends. The memories will be more valuable than the facilitation.

3. Concert or spa treatment

Get them tickets to a big concert or a concert by their favourite artist. If there aren't any upcoming shows, a day at the spa getting pampered and having lunch with their friends is a nice way to go too. Some of these friends will be going on different paths so it can be a good way to say goodbye.

4. Give them money and time

They probably need it to start their new life after school. Give them the money and have them do something worthwhile with it or invest it in something that matters to them.

Spend time with them and talk about their new stage in life. Combine it with some other activity that encourages bonding.

5. Grand gifts

Giving your graduand a big gift might be more rewarding than spending money on guests that no one will remember having been there in a few months. Get him/her a grand quality gift that is useful to them. A new phone, laptop, and camera, among others.

6. Get them a job

It could be from pulling connections or investing. Get them something to give them a financial start.

Takeaway

There are graduands who would trade a party for something more meaningful to them. The best thing you could do is to simply ask them for their opinion. You don't have to be obvious about it, but it can give you an idea of alternative ways to make this time more special. Remember, this is about them.