Why Graduation Gifts Are More Meaningful than Money
Your loved one is graduating! It’s a time to celebrate, yet finding the perfect graduation gift can be stressful. People often ask: what the graduate could use after the ceremony, the kinds of items other people give, and what’s considered too much or too little. You may reasonably wonder whether money suffices, but remember that a personalized gift—a book, self-care item, and drinkware, for example—has more sentimental value than cash. Head over to your local Banner’s Hallmark for unforgettable and personable graduation gifts for her that she’ll cherish for a lifetime.
Family-owned and -operated, Banner’s Hallmark is a card and gift specialty company with decades of retail experience. We have the cards and gifts you need to express your appreciation and support for your loved ones at baby showers, birthday celebrations, and more. Visit a Banner’s Hallmark store near you or shop online to discover graduation gifts for any beloved graduate.
Below, we explain why gifts are more meaningful than money as a graduation present:
The Science Behind Gift Giving
The happy, giddy feeling people experience when handing loved ones a gift is known as the “warm glow-giving” economic theory. You may recognize it by the feelings of anticipation and excitement as you watch their every movement and expression. It almost feels like you’re receiving the gift—and, indeed, you are receiving something: oxytocin.
Giving someone a gift activates neural pathways that release oxytocin—a neuropeptide signaling trust, safety, and connection—which makes you feel good and secure in your relationship. That warmth that comes with giving someone a present isn't just a coincidence—it's science.
What’s Different About Money?
Money offers a quick solution to someone struggling to determine a gift idea, yet it lacks the mental boost that giving a tangible gift provides. Money often fails to convey one’s admiration and might send inappropriate messages about unequal statuses between the donor and recipient.
Your loved one might feel underwhelmed with a gift of money, as it feels less thoughtful than a personalized gift. So, consider other options that feel more singular and close to your loved one’s preferences.
If you’re searching for college graduation gifts for her, ask what your loved one needs most as they transition from high school to college or college to the working world. Think about self-care products, planners, or books to jumpstart their journey toward newfound independence and experiences.
Gifts Other Than Money for Graduation
Now that you’ve begun your search for college or high school graduation gifts for her, consider what they might need in this pivotal part of their life. Cater to their interests, think outside the box, and explore multiple options.
Below, we describe appropriate gifts—other than money—for graduation:
1. DrinkwareFor college graduation, what’s better than some fancy or fun drinkware to celebrate and embrace true adulthood? Browse Banner’s Hallmark's wide variety of drinkware for all occasions. We’ve got everything from tumblers and insulated bottles to themed wine glasses!
2. Self-Care ItemsGraduating high school or college calls for some much-needed self-care! Soaps, lotions, lip balms, and more will make your loved one happy and show her you care. Moreover, self-care is vital to maintaining a good relationship with ourselves, especially during such a stressful life transition.
3. BooksBooks are a wonderful gift for an academic looking to expand their knowledge post-graduation, especially one moving on to grad school. A means of making learning feel like relaxation, books are a perfect way to continue academic journies beyond the classroom.