This year my stepdaughter graduates from high school and I can barely wrap my brain around it. I’m so proud of all she has accomplished!
The past few weeks have been so much fun. From Senior Ball to awards dinners, it’s been wonderful to celebrate all her hard work.
I know soon we’ll move past celebrating high school and start getting her ready for college. But for now, I’m just enjoying the moment- and perhaps in a little denial that she will be moving 6 hours away in just a few short months!
So, for those with graduates in their life, I thought I would share a few gift ideas I’ve run across over the past few months.
Many of these are based off hints from my stepdaughter and her friends, so admittedly, I have way more feminine picks than masculine ones. I will say, when my stepson graduated from high school a few years ago his wish list was much shorter. In fact he only asked for one thing – Money
Over $100
Beats Solo 2 Wireless Headphones- $199
If your graduate is moving into the dorms this fall, or likes studying in public places, headphones are a great idea
The wireless version of the Beats Solo 2 are awesome, and it’s all because they are wireless, which is really easy and convenient. I have a pair and I love them.
I’ve linked to Amazon, but you can find them at most large retailers, from Walmart to Best Buy. They connect through Bluetooth, come in various colors, and you can also use the cord when they run out of power.
Lululemon Free To Be Bag- $128
This is a beautiful bag and is perfect for the gym or an overnight trip
It comes in three colors and is great quality, so you can stuff it with a lot without it falling apart. The size is just right too- not too big or too small. If your grad is a yogi, added bonus- it has stowable straps for a mat!
$25-$100
Birkenstock ‘Mayari’ Birko-Flor Sandal (Women)- $94.95
Don’t laugh- Birkenstocks are back
And honestly they do have a few styles now that are a lot less biblical looking then the ones I rocked in junior high. In fact, I think the ‘Mayari’ Birko-Flor style is actually pretty cute.
If these are something your graduate is into, I’d recommend getting them at Nordstrom’s. The popular styles rarely go on sale anywhere and Nordstrom’s makes returns easy if the size or style is wrong.
Back me up! mobile charger – $30
Mobile charges are the best and one with a cute design is even better
These chargers are available in a few different patterns and can be used to charge the iPhone 5/5s, iPhone 6/6+, and iPhone 6s/6s+.
Bonus Tip
Side note, there are so many cute gift ideas on the Ban.do website, I highly recommend checking it out. From clothing to organizers, they have a ton of gift options at very low prices. Also if you order over Memorial Day Weekend, you get free domestic standard shipping.
Under $25
S’well Waterbottle- $24
I know, I can hear by Dad right now. You spent how much on a water bottle??
I get it, but S’well water bottles are super popular. The average 18-year old would likely love one, but isn’t going to shell out the cash, which makes it the perfect gift.
Even better, S’well has partnered with Target for a line called S’ip by S’well, so you can easily pick this up as a last minute gift. They come in so many cute styles, keep beverages cold or hot longer than your average bottle, and are BPA-free.
Kate Spade Initial Notebook- $16
This classic journal is perfect for anyone with simple and elegant style
Their initial on the cover shows you took a little extra time to pick out something special just for them.
I love graduation season!
It’s so fun to celebrate accomplishments and watch as people move on to new chapters in their life. I know when I see my stepdaughter in her cap and grown there will be plenty of tears and that’s okay. Joy with a touch of sadness is the emotional mix that goes into all milestone moments.
