Hosting a Grad Party, Graduation Outfits, and Graduation Gifts! 

Similar Dress | Similar Shoes | Grad Balloon

For many students, educators, and families, the end of the school year marks the beginning of a fun-filled and much needed summer break. However, for those graduating, ending the school year marks the conclusion of one chapter of life and the beginning of a new one. This time of year, I fondly remember celebrating my daughter, Kennedy with a fabulous graduation party. The class of 2021 had overcome a fair share of obstacles on the road to graduation, making it even more important they are celebrated accordingly! With this in mind, I knew we had to celebrate my daughter’s graduation from Texas Christian University in the most memorable and fabulous way… but the question was how?!?! How do you adequately celebrate the hard work and accomplishments of someone who is so deserving of the best this world has to offer? With the help of many fabulous vendors, I was able to create what my daughter described as the ‘graduation party of her dreams’, celebrating her accomplishments with family and friends on a day we will never forget. Now that we are past the celebration, I have compiled many of my vendors and items we used to celebrate Kennedy. I hope this helps serve as a guide for celebrating your graduate!

Stellar Creations, Balloons | IG: @stellarballoons

Hostess with the Mostest

Similar White Dress || Similar to Tiffy’s Dress

When hosting any event, there are basic elements hosts should prepare to include. Among these basics are food/catering, beverages, desserts, etc. However, when celebrating a milestone such as graduation, that list expands into elements such as decor, flowers, balloons, and photography. I cannot overstate how helpful it is to find vendors in these areas to help you create your perfect event with as much ease as possible. I had the honor of working with some of the most fabulous vendors who patiently assisted me every step of the way in creating a well-flowing graduation party that will be remembered by my graduate for years to come. Additionally, I have included some of the different home and hosting items that I simply could not have entertained without! 

Glassware Collection | Linen Napkins | Beverage Dispenser | Beverage Tub | Ice Scoop | Bar Tools Set | Plastic Cups | Honeycomb Cheese Knives | Honeycomb Cheese Board | Gold Plastic Cutlery Set | Vintage Etched Carafe | Serving Cart

Vendors

Canon Elizabeth Photography  || IG: @canonsawyer

Herb & Alchemy || IG: @herb_and_alchemy_

Stellar Creations, Balloons || IG: @stellarballoons

Vivienne & Vine, Flowers || IG: @vivienneandvine

Del Friscos, Catering || IG: @del.friscos

Desserts: 

The Velvet Cookie || IG: @thepinkvelvetcookie

Nothing Bundt Cakes ||  IG: @nothingbundtcakes

Sevargo, custom napkins and cups || IG: @sevargo

My Sweet Roots, catering || IG: @mysweetroots

OUTFITS

Top | Jeans

When selecting an outfit for a graduation ceremony it is important to keep in mind that depending on the size of the institution, ceremonies can last upwards of two and a half hours. Thus, you should wear something you are comfortable sitting in for this period of time, and keep in mind the climate you will be in. For outdoor ceremonies, check the weather and dress with the conditions in mind, and don’t forget a hat and sunglasses to block the sun! Don’t forget your sunscreen!  However for indoor ceremonies I recommend dressing with layers, there is nothing worse than being cold for two hours without a sweater or wrap. Additionally, you should check the institution’s guest protocol, as many universities now have a clear bag policy in place!

See more on my blog from April 29th BEST DRESSED GRADUATION GUEST by clicking Here

Blue and White Floral Dress | White Dress | Embroidered Dress | Pink Rose Flutter Sleeve Dress | Pink Dress | Mini Floral Dress | Smocked Midi Dress | Long-Sleeve Dress

GIFTS

Whether a college-bound high school graduate or a recent college grad entering the real world, these graduation gifts are a great way to celebrate each milestone. When my daughter and her friends graduated from high school, I learned that it was beneficial to pick a general gift to purchase in each graduate’s college colors. Selecting a functional item within the $30-$75 range to use as an across-the-board gift allows for ease in shopping. Below I have included both functional gifts and more heartfelt gifts, all of which are a great way to celebrate the graduates in your life! 

Travel Organizer | Travel Jewelry Case | Picture Frame | MacBook Sleeves | Cash Strap | Cape Cuff Set | College Cityscape Rocks Glasses | Tech Organizer Tray | Mini Tool Set | Colorful Lap Desk | Hydro Flask | Spinner Luggage

The day could not have been any better. Thank you to everyone who took the time to shower my daughter and encourage her every step of the way! Hope each of you have a FABULOUS weekend and spend time with those you love the most. Did you find this post helpful? Or personally used any of these vendors before? Let me know in the comments below! As you know, I love chatting with you all!

All photography was by Cannon Elizabeth. All product selections, reviews, and styling are my own.

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