Graduation season is here. You're excited. They're excited. Then comes the gift question.
What do you get someone who's about to become a real adult?
Most people default to cash in an envelope. Fine. Practical. Completely forgettable.
But then there's this customer: "Please can you draw with cap and gown (graduation). Chris is 24 and 6'2."
That's a kid (sorry, 24 is still a kid) who's about to walk across a stage and get a piece of paper that supposedly means something. Let's make it memorable.
The "Look How Far We've Come" Portrait
One mom ordered: "This is my little family. I'm also currently pregnant with our second (if you could somehow incorporate that into it). The baby is our daughter Stella."
Graduation isn't just about the person walking across the stage. It's about everyone who helped get them there.
The "I Survived College" Caricature
This one wanted: "Please try to capture the same expression as in the photo. It is one that makes them laugh. Have them be in cap and gown. They graduate from the University of Wisconsin Madison in May."
The expression that makes them laugh. That's the key. Not the stiff diploma handshake photo. The real them.
The "Kindergarten to College" Full Circle
Someone asked: "Can you recreate Ryleys kindergarten graduation picture in turned yellow?"
Kindergarten. College. The whole journey in one image. Now that's a gift.
What NOT To Get
- Cash (they'll spend it on ramen and regret)
- Planners (they won't use them)
- "Adulting is Hard" gag gifts (they know)
- Anything from the "Graduation Gift Set" at the drugstore
The Bottom Line
Graduation only happens a few times. Make it count with something that shows you actually see them - not just another envelope they'll forget about.
And if you want ideas, just think: what's the one inside joke or moment that defined these years? That's your gift.
Need inspiration? Check out our custom graduation gifts and create something they'll actually keep.
