Graduation is just around the corner and many are wondering about the proper etiquette for sending out their graduation invitations and graduation announcements. Many have questions such as when do I send my graduation announcements, or what do I put on my graduation invitations?
As far as when to send the graduation announcements or invitation out goes, it depends on which they are going to be. If they are invitations to the actual graduation ceremony itself then you want to give your guests at least 14 days, however four weeks would be better, especially if you are inviting guests that must travel long distances to attend. This gives them time to plan and respond to the invitation. Keep in mind that many schools and universities limit the number of people that may attend, due to seating constraints, so be sure to check with your school for any such limitations prior to sending our your invitations. Many people choose to only invite family and close friends to the actual graduation ceremony, and will then send announcements to others to let them know they have graduated.
If you are sending out announcements, to share your educational milestone, then you will probably want to plan them for anywhere between a month prior to and a month after the actual graduation ceremony takes place. Also be aware that while people receiving actual invitations to the graduation may assume a gift is required, announcements do not necessarily mean that a gift is expected. Still, you may want to add “No gifts, please” to the card, if you don’t want to put a feeling of obligation on the announcement recipients.