Patch Picks: Everything Graduation

High schools across the country are recognizing the achievements of the graduating senior class. Commencements are a milestone for both the student and their families as they commemorate the past years of schooling and the future of endless possibilities that lies ahead.

If this is your first child’s graduation or you have experienced this joyous day in the past, here are some tips and suggestions for making it a memorable one.

Gifts

One way to pick out a gift for a graduate is to consider what they can use the most. There is debate over whether giving money is impersonal but it is something that anyone – no matter what age – can always use. Other options include small sentimental keepsakes like a graduation key chain, jewelry or even a gift card to the grad’s favorite store.

Bring the Party to Your House

Some people are natural hosts and hostesses who prefer to have the party at their home. A few things to consider when hosting a party include the guest list, food, entertainment and the accommodations. 

If you have a party, you’re your own judge of who to invite. Whether it is the immediate family or a few of your child’s friends, it is the thought that counts. If it’s a nice sunny day, why not keep it simple and buy meats to barbecue? You can go to any supermarket to pick up some burgers, hot dogs and sides or spice it up with steak, sausage or chicken.

Depending on the size of your party you may want to rent a tent, tables or chairs.  in Mineola offers many options to accommodate your budget, party size and needs.

Take the Party Elsewhere 

If you’re the type of person who gets stressed easily when entertaining, maybe it is a better idea to celebrate your child’s graduation at a restaurant. You can keep it simple and always fancy it up depending on your budget, the number of people you want to invite and the cuisine.

Depending on the day of the week, graduation parties are more commonly held during dinnertime. Some places might be able to arrange a special menu for a set price while other restaurants only allow you to order per person.

Graduate Preparation

Aside from saying goodbye to classmates, there are things that graduates like to do before the big day. Boys sometimes like to go for a fresh haircut close to graduation day while girls opt for a stylist, manicure and pedicure.

Make sure to let your cap and gown hang, take it out of the bag so you will not be walking with wrinkles on the big day.

Decorations

It’s always nice to pick up a little something to acknowledge the achievement. The traditional way to say congratulations is with a bouquet of flowers, other ideas include balloons or graduation paraphernalia from Party City or any party store that sells signs, banners or confetti.

Check back next week for Patch Picks: Picnics!