Bella here from the Class of 2019. I graduated last year from Santa Clara University--- go broncos! Before working at KAZI HQ, I conducted research in Rwanda and Uganda, witnessing the depth of social impact the KAZI has on its talented artisan partners.

Graduation is no easy feat and deserves to be celebrated. Graduation will look differently this year but that means your graduate deserves even more recognition and celebration. Class of 2020 mastered online learning and Zoom calls, all while creatively coming up with safe ways to stay connected with friends.

You may not attend school graduation ceremonies but you can still celebrate your favorite graduate through meaningful and practical gifts to honor their school graduation. 

Here are some graduation gift ideas as you search for the perfect gift for your college grad or high school grad heading off to college or moving into a new apartment. As a recent graduate, I promise you these are gifts on my Pinterest boards and wishlists.  

1. For the Weekend Decorator

Help a recent graduate invest in home decor for their new apartment. Nothing says sophisticated adulthood like handwoven, gorgeous wall art. These easy-to-hang wall art pieces are especially perfect for apartments with limited wall space. Recent grads like me don’t have the budget for dramatic home improvement but we still appreciate home decor. This stunning wall art would be on my wishlist because these baskets are meaningful gifts; each basket creates jobs for talented female artisans.

2. For the Organizer

Graduates will have plenty of belongings to organize. We have our college momentos, our eclectic belongings, and admittedly, a lengthy Amazon wishlist. Make the transition from student housing to apartment seamless with these timeless storage pieces and home decor..These beautiful home decor pieces can easily hide unwanted mess without taking up too much space. These storage pieces can also be used as unique bathroom accessories or home office trash bins. 

3. For the Foodie

Just because recent graduates will be cooking on a budget doesn’t mean they don’t deserve beautiful kitchen accessories. Help them feel at home with meaningful, handmade pieces that show off their sense of style. Add to their well-curated kitchen collection with coasters, trivets, wine coasters, chargers, placemats or fruit bowls. These functional and decorative pieces will transform any apartment kitchen. They’re the perfect gifts for home improvement. 

4. For the Plant Lover

Many graduates proudly consider themselves “plant parents” and appreciate greenery in their apartments. Gift your graduate these stylish planters and vases to store their favorite plants. Our cylindrical vases can store wine bottles so you can gift with an adult beverage! They home decor pieces can easily be personalized gifts by finding colors that match their style and personality. 

5. For the Adventurous Traveler

Help your college grad plan for a future trip overseas or a celebratory road trip in-state. The perfect gift is a travel tool kit. What does this include? Necessary travel tech like a portable charger and bluetooth speaker. A spacious and stylish weekend bag. Water Bottles to stay hydrated and decorate with their favorite Etsy stickers.  

6. For the Tech Savvy Grad

Technology, especially now, helps your grad stay connected to their friends and family. These tech essentials range in prices depending on your budget. Affordable graduation gifts include a wireless charging case, charging station, and bluetooth speaker. For those who want to splurge, surprise your college grad or high school grad with an Apple watch , Apple airpods or a fit bit and fit bit charger.

7. Gifts for Him

This graduate will appreciate the latest and trendiest men’s accessories. The iconic leather wallet is both sophisticated and practical and makes the perfect gift. Invest in a Dange Dover backpack for the college student or working professional. 

8. For the Sentimental Grad

If your grad is like me, we cherish sentimental, personalized gifts. This is the perfect opportunity to show your grad you care with personalized gifts and DIY graduation gifts. Your college graduate or high school graduate will cherish the thoughtfulness as they transition into an exciting, new chapter of their lives. 

Frame a city map so they'll always always have a piece of home even if they’re miles away.

Write them a letter to their future self. Create the ultimate care package with their favorite snacks and gift certificates or gift cards to their favorite stores. Add in some facial sheet masks  to help them unwind after a long day. 

For the high school graduates attending college in the fall, create a college survival kit with school supplies, a journal, a toiletry bag, snacks, and basic essentials like a first aid kit and laundry detergent. You can’t go wrong with these personalized graduation gifts. Want more unique graduation gift ideas? Here’s a thorough list of DIY graduation gifts to check out.