Cue “Pomp and Circumstance” and start practicing your I’m-not-bored-after-listening-to-500-names-being-called face: Graduation season is upon us! And with it, plenty of invitations to graduation parties. Cash and gift cards are always a safe bet, but if you’re looking for something a little less run-of-the-mill, we have a few suggestions (and they’re all $50 or less, since we’re ballin’ on a budget).
For Anyone, Anywhere:
- Zipstick portable charger, $30; Amazon (Dying battery? This gadget gives you an instant boost — no outlet needed — and it doubles as a flashlight. Some models even come with a panic alarm, making it a purse must-have if you’re out late at night.)
- Do One Thing Every Day That Scares You, Amazon; $11 (The ultimate way to challenge yourself as you map out what you want in life.)
- A fun little something that telegraphs “you’ve made it,” like this Kate Spade wristlet, $46
- The Fault in Our Stars, Amazon; $8 (A great ugly-cry read to tap into all the feels over summer break)
- Chromecast, Amazon; $35 (No cable? No problem. Use this to cast anything you’d watch online directly to the TV. It’s like Apple TV but much, much cheaper.)
For the Career-Focused:
- A classic fitted blazer, H&M; $25 (It makes any outfit look a little more polished. You can find a great men’s style here.)
- A conversation-sparking mug, like this camera lens style ($9), or this glass beaker version ($16)
- A stylish (yet work appropriate) iPad case, Speck; $40
- What Color Is Your Parachute?, Amazon; $11 (A guidebook for finding the right job for you.)
- Pave Stone Bracelet, Target; $20 (Looks more high-end than it is, giving you an instant flash of style that’s still office appropriate.)
For the Foodie:
- Sweet Spot Ice Cream Maker, Williams-Sonoma; $50
- Or Yonanas Frozen Treat Maker, Amazon; $50
- A Cake Decorating, bread-baking or Mexican Street Food cooking class from Craftsy, $20-$40
- Hamilton Beach Iced Coffee Machine, Amazon; $30 (Because hot coffee + ice = watery mess)
- Decorative Cake Stand, Amazon; $26
Looking for more ideas? Don’t miss these:
- DIY Gift Ideas Everyone Will Love
- Graduation Books That Are Way, Way Better Than Required Reading
- 2013’s Top Graduation Gifts (All Under $50!)
Note: This post contains affiliate fees, which means that Collegiate Cook will receive a small portion of select purchases. (As with any income we earn, 25 percent of the earnings will benefit student scholarships at the University of South Florida.)