Graduation—from college, grad school, heck, even that after-hours course she’s been working overtime at in order to expand on a new skillset—is one of the most meaningful milestones she’ll experience. The tricky part? Finding a way to properly acknowledge it. A gesture (like a sampling of delectable cookies, all wrapped up in beautiful packaging) is creative and sweet, but you could also gift her something she can hold onto a little bit longer (a cute new bag, perhaps?). We’ve assembled a curated assortment of surprise-and-delight graduation gifts below. No matter the choice, thoughtful options abound.
9 Thoughtful Graduation Gifts That She’ll Love
Commemorate the (major) moment
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1. Rifle Paper Co. Pocket Notebook Boxed Set
Rifle Paper Co.
She’ll undoubtedly have plenty of musings as she embarks on a brand new chapter of life. But maybe she just wants to put pen to paper as she keeps notes on her job search. Either way, this stylish set—featuring Rifle Paper Co.’s iconic hydrangea print—includes a total of eight notebooks, all small enough to tuck in her purse, but also with enough pages (40!) to really get her thoughts out.
2. Coach ‘Brooklyn’ Shoulder Bag
Coach
Available in a range of sizes, this oversized tote is exactly what she needs to feel organized and put together as she kicks off her job search. We’re partial to the larger hobo style (called the 39) given its ability to fit a 15-inch laptop, wallet, phone, sunglasses case and more—all essentials she’ll be reaching for as she darts from interview to interview. Heck, she can even stash a pair of heels inside so she can swap her footwear as needed. The wide shoulder strap, easy magnetic closure and natural grain leather are all added flourishes that make this gift both practical and thoughtful.
3. James Wax ‘Smart AF’ Candle
James Wax
Equal parts useful and cheeky, this clever candle—handmade in California—also happens to feature the highest quality ingredients (think: it’s made from 100 percent soy wax, phthalate- and paraben-free fragrances with essential oil blends and a 100 percent cotton candle wick). The custom label only adds to its charm.
4. ‘Get Good with Money’ by Tiffany Aliche
Penguin Random House
It provides the ultimate foundation for kicking her post-collegiate life off on the right foot: This brilliant book from Tiffany “The Budgetnista” Aliche outlines a 10-step formula for attaining financial security and peace of mind as you build your wealth. How to pay off debt? How to save and take charge of your credit score? That’s all covered here and then some. She’ll read it once, then reach for this book again and again.
To ensure peak performance, hydration is key—especially as she navigates a fresh start. This smart water bottle is not only sleek, but it’s also self-cleaning and pairs with an app that can track the amount of water she sips to help her stay on top of her wellness goals. More features to love: The PureVis 2 also keeps water chilled for 24 hours and comes with a leak-proof cap and a mouth that’s large enough to fit ice (totally clutch).
6. Coach ‘Teri’ Shoulder Bag
Coach
While a hobo silhouette (such as the Brooklyn, mentioned above) is ideal for all the things she needs to carry, she’ll also love the efficiency—and stylishness—of the Teri shoulder bag. Designed to fit the essentials only, it’s exactly the kind of purse she can stash in an oversized tote, then reach for on her lunch break. It’s also still large enough to fit a phone, wallet, lip gloss, Airpods and even a light snack. Who doesn’t love a bag with a purpose? (And also, a detachable strap.)
7. Petite Plume Lightweight Pima Pajama Set
Petite Plume
As I mentioned above, hydration matters, but so does a proper night’s sleep as you chart a fresh start. This PJ set is a stand-out for its flattering silhouette, but also for its cooling fabric (Pima cotton is known for its ultra-breathable weave), which will help her rest easy and better enjoy a solid night’s slumber. There’s no better way to start the day off on the right foot.
8. A Framebridge Gift Card
Framebridge
As she outfits her new office, cubicle, or heck, WFH setup, she’ll feel a lot more put together with properly framed photos or art to help inspire her pursuits. Better yet, custom framing means she can elevate her entire aesthetic. Framebridge also makes it a cinch to upload images digitally and have the finished frame shipped straight to her door.
9. Levain Signature Cookie Assortment
Levain
At the end of the day, you can’t go wrong gifting something sweet. Levain’s signature assortment (available in packs of 4, 8 or 12) can be shipped nationwide and includes at least one of the iconic NYC-based bakery’s original cookie flavors: Chocolate Chip Walnut, Dark Chocolate Chocolate Chip, Oatmeal Raisin and Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Chip. She’ll savor every bite.










