NSAHMR- Grad Gift?

nicleep

FI's longtime friend (from childhood) just graduated college.  Everyone is super proud of her (first in her fam) etc and we are proud too   We missed her grad party (a huge 'kegger' type thing with a DJ etc- no thanks lol) but we want her to know we are happy/proud etc.  What's an appropriate gift to send with a card?  I was thinking gift card- but the amount we'd be able to budget is only like $20 and that seems low for a college graduate gift.  We can ship stuff through FI's work at no charge so my next thought was a cute booze/glass set or something.  I'm only a few years older than her but I know graduation is/was a huge deal for me and I want her to know it's no small task and even though we missed the party we are so happy for her.  Any ideas on a gift that is college grad appropriate in the $20 range (I know it isn't much and wish we could spend more )?

JOEBunny

I got a large cooler as a graduation present once.  I still use it, 20 years later.  It is a handy thing to have.  I don't think it would be much more than $20.

The book, "the places you'll go" is a fun token gift.  Otherwise, I would probably do a gift card and call it a day.  I tend to way over think these things.  People appreciate the thought.

axr8111

I think just putting $20 cash in a card is very nice.

Sammysu

What about a nice organizer book or gift cards are always good too! A restaurant gift card is nice too.

nicleep

Glad to hear $20 would be an ok amount- I was worried   I also LOVE the idea of a personalized organizer or something; any thoughts on where I can look for one?  Thank you!!

spiritenergy

What are her plans after graduation? Does she have a job lined up or grad school? A GC to a resteraunt would be nice or GC to a hair salon so she can get a hair cut in perperation for job interviews. I would stay away from any thing that says, "Congradulations Grad!" because it makes it hard for her to use them later. You don't want to be pulling out grad shot glasses in ten years. Regular shot glasses are fine though. I wouldn't be embarassed by only sending $20. It is the thought that counts, and it is more important to stick to your budget than go into debt for a gift.