Okay, ladies- it’s graduation season! As I’m sure all of your bank accounts are aware of. In honor of the broke, creative college student, we’ve created a list of thoughtful gift ideas for your favorite grads!

Let’s be real, it IS the thought that counts. Puns go a long way. And anything witty, clever, or creative is often the most appreciated. Your time spent is what they recognize. “Thoughtful” does not have a price-tag. Value is not necessarily numerical.

Unless it’s measured in hugs received after the fact.

Take a look at our six favorite homemade gift ideas that won’t break your bank account or new grads’ hearts. However if you feel like breaking the bank to get a gift for someone special, then you may want to design your own bobbleheads to guarantee laughter. All you need is a photograph of the person who is graduating and you’re good to go. Have fun!

For the Daydreamer

Idea:
Stencil your new grad’s favorite quote, lyric, or inspirational phrase onto an empty pillow case! If you have a steady hand, you may not even need a stencil, you can simply free-hand the words! This can also be accomplished with items you may have readily available around your house. It’s easy, thoughtful, and perfect for your avid dreamer! Even though, really, we should all be shooting for the stars.

PUNny Memo:
College is hard, but the late-nights-turned-memories are worth it! You can officially take a nap now. Your dreams await!

Shopping List:




For the Innovative Individual

Idea:
Put a bunch of chocolate coins in a mason jar (or any cute jar you find– we LOVE mason jars around here). Depending on your budget, you can also break a $20 bill into quarters and fill the container of your choice as well! A bright ribbon, label, and handwritten card– sold! Perfect for your chocolate-loving, world-changing pal.

PUNny Memo:
Don’t try to make cents of the journey, just enjoy the ride! You are off to change the world!

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For the Memory Keeper

Idea:
Create a “Last College Supper” basket–filled with all the snacks, treats, and nostalgic late night eats of their college years! We all have that one friend who saved their money to buy more clothes than groceries (guilty!). If there is a specific food item you and your new grad religiously enjoyed together, be sure to include it! We listed a few of our favorite college snacks and dorm room necessities, but customize your basket as needed! A fast food gift card is always a great additive (this is the part where we come clean about our french fry addiction).

PUNny Memo:
As you enter the Real World, what’s one more junk-food and snack binge going to hurt? Enjoy your Last College Supper before your real salary turns you into a meal substance pro.

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For the Leader

Idea:
Combine a large liter of their favorite soda with a case of smaller (but still as important) 24 oz. versions of the same one! We adore the vintage vibes of the glass bottle 6-packs, but any soda in a smaller size get’s the point across. Put both the liter and the smaller soda bottles/cans inside a tin bucket or cooler–and vua-la, an instant stand-out replica for your fearlessly authentic, new graduate.

PUNny Memo:
Be the Liter of the Pack. Go forth and make a difference!

Shopping List:


For the Brainiac

Idea:
Put their favorite kind of cookie into a cute container (the mason jar never gets old- AND it’s inexpensive!) If you love to bake, this is the perfect opportunity! When all else fails, your nearest grocery store has those AH-mazingly soft sugar cookies with pink frosting…..you know exactly what I’m talking about.

PUNny Memo:
You did it- you graduated! You little Smart Cookie, you.

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For the Wild Child

Idea:
If you’re of age, buy a single serving (shooter size) of their favorite adult beverage! Using cute ribbon, tie the single shooter around the neck of their favorite soda! This is a great way to offer them a “drink” without breaking the bank by going to a local restaurant– the ultimate time & money saver! We have to admit, we are still suckers for a Shirley Temple (Sprite + bottle of grenadine) – which is also a great beverage alternative!

PUNny Memo:
Cheers to you, new grad! Here’s a drink on me!

Shopping List:

xoxo, The Mermaids