Gift ideas for son's girlfriend's college graduation

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Jewelry. Necklace or earrings, pearl studs, pearl necklace, nice watch if you can afford it.

I wouldn't worry about being "wealthier" -- just give her something nice.

Not every woman likes jewelry. Ask your son. But what is wrong with a nice dinner out once Covid restrictions are lessened?

I feel like dinner is something you would do in addition to giving a gift, not as the gift itself. But maybe I'm spoiled.

[Anonymous]

What is she doing next year?

[Anonymous]

OP here -- I can't do dinner out/hotel/ event because right after the post-graduation trip they will be living in different cities -- and really far apart. She doesn't have a job yet so she will be heading back to her small town. I'm sure they will see each other this summer but I'm not sure where they will meet up.

I'm leaning toward jewelry from somewhere like Nordstrom that she could exchange if she hated it.

[Anonymous]

Diploma frame might be nice. My diplomas sit in a drawer somewhere. I know people have mixed feelings on displaying their degrees, but it might be nice to hang it on the wall for a few years after college.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:OP here -- It's a bit tricky because we a lot wealthier than her family (she's the first one to go to college, on a full scholarship) and I don't want to get her something over-the-top that would be nicer than what her parents get her. So the Tumi may have to wait.

Do 20 year olds still wear pearl earrings to work? I could do that -- but I wouldn't get them at Tiffany's.

No, people in their 20's haven't worn pearl earrings to work in decades. The poster with the coordinates of her college engraved on a necklace - that was a good idea. Or, you could get her a Madewell tote - those are super popular with all the 20's women in my law firm.

[Anonymous]

I'm 30. My now MIL gave me a nice Coach weekender bag that I used until the handles fell off. It was a good functional gift that carried me through many international trips - and she loved to see where I went with it! She now gives me jewelry and other expensive items, but I think if I had gotten anything too nice it would've made me uncomfortable at the time. My situation was similar to your son's gf in terms of wealth/being the first to go to college, and 23 year old me would've been grateful but would feel awkward in the relationship since I couldn't reciprocate. Once I married her son it felt more appropriate to receive nicer things, but that is all my baggage lol.

Classic pieces of jewelry are fine - pearl earrings or even a stacking ring, but nothing more imo. I'd buy from a trendier place like Local Eclectic or Etsy.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:OP here -- It's a bit tricky because we a lot wealthier than her family (she's the first one to go to college, on a full scholarship) and I don't want to get her something over-the-top that would be nicer than what her parents get her. So the Tumi may have to wait.

Do 20 year olds still wear pearl earrings to work? I could do that -- but I wouldn't get them at Tiffany's.

No, people in their 20's haven't worn pearl earrings to work in decades. The poster with the coordinates of her college engraved on a necklace - that was a good idea. Or, you could get her a Madewell tote - those are super popular with all the 20's women in my law firm.

People still wear pearl earrings. They wear the large oversized ones instead of the small ones these days.

[Anonymous]

My daughter just received a beautiful briefcase from her aunt to use for her first job. It holds a computer and looks very classy. She loves it!

[Anonymous]

My boyfriend’s mom gave me a Moschino keychain when I graduated. I loved having something cute and designer at that age. I’d probably do a bag or a phone holder in a brand that college kids like.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:OP here -- I can't do dinner out/hotel/ event because right after the post-graduation trip they will be living in different cities -- and really far apart. She doesn't have a job yet so she will be heading back to her small town. I'm sure they will see each other this summer but I'm not sure where they will meet up.

I'm leaning toward jewelry from somewhere like Nordstrom that she could exchange if she hated it.

if you have wedding bells in your head, that's not a great sign. I'd go with Nordstrom jewelry, but nothing that will be too excessive

[Anonymous]

I frequently give monogrammed LL Bean boat totes as graduation gifts and they are always well-received - they come in handy for vacations, moving/storing stuff, etc. Concur with the PP who suggested the Madewell leather tote, too.

I think jewelry is too personal - I'm remembering now how many people (including my now-MIL) who have given me earrings when I don't have pierced ears.

[Anonymous]

Since she doesn’t have a job lined up, what about a nice portfolio for interviews, a nice pen or even some gift cards to a store to buy a nice interview outfit and shoes. Or take her shopping for a nice interview outfit. I lean to practical ideas so money would be my real option, esp. if you are taking them on a trip. You could do a manicure/pedicure. At this point they are young not engaged so it’s really a token gift.

[Anonymous]

I Venmo my son’s GF $2K as a graduation gift. Cash is king and practical for newly graduated.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I Venmo my son’s GF $2K as a graduation gift. Cash is king and practical for newly graduated.

Wow, I wish I was in position to do that! (Not OP)

[Anonymous]

OP - what kind of career path is she pursuing?