Graduation Etiquette Guide: The Ultimate Freebie for Seniors

Portraits, Senior Photography

March 7, 2025

A collection of stylish and personalized graduation announcements and invitations laid out on a wooden floor, featuring various senior portraits, typography designs, and color schemes. The cards showcase high school graduates from the Class of 2025, highlighting unique senior photography styles and custom print designs. This image is part of our Graduation Etiquette Guide, helping seniors navigate announcements, invitations, and celebration planning

Graduation season is here, and that means celebrating one of the biggest milestones in a student’s life! If you’re wondering about proper etiquette, our Graduation Etiquette Guide covers everything from announcements to thank-you notes.

To make things easier, I’ve created a Grad Etiquette Guide packed with all the do’s and don’ts for graduation season. This freebie will help you navigate everything from proper announcement timing to sending thank-you notes. Keep reading to grab your copy and get ahead of the game!

Graduation Announcements vs. Invitations: What’s the Difference?

One of the biggest questions graduates have is whether they need to send both graduation announcements and graduation invitations. Here’s the breakdown:

Graduation Announcements are a formal way to share the news that you are graduating. These don’t invite anyone to an event but simply spread the word about your achievement. These can be sent two weeks before graduation up to one month after.
Graduation Invitations are meant to invite someone to an actual event, like your ceremony or a graduation party. These should be sent 4-6 weeks ahead of time to give guests enough time to plan.

Need help designing announcements or invitations? Our Grad Etiquette Guide covers everything you need to include to make them perfect!

Two elegant graduation announcements displayed on a wooden floor, featuring personalized senior portraits and modern typography. One card showcases a formal black-and-white senior photo with college acceptance details, while the other includes a casual outdoor portrait with graduation party invitation details. This image is part of our Graduation Etiquette Guide, offering inspiration for high school senior graduation invitations, custom announcements, and senior photography ideas. Captured by a Lawrence, KS senior photographer.

The Must-Know Tips from my Graduation Etiquette Guide

Graduation is an exciting time, but it also comes with etiquette expectations. Here are some top tips:

✅ Thank You Notes Are a Must! If you receive a graduation gift, a handwritten thank-you note is the best way to show your appreciation. Be sure to include:

The gift giver’s name
A thank-you for the specific gift
How you plan to use it
A personal message

Send your notes as soon as possible, but no later than one month after receiving the gift.

✅ RSVP When Asked If someone sends you a graduation party invitation, make sure to RSVP! Hosts need a headcount for food and seating, so it’s polite to let them know whether or not you’ll be attending.

✅ Dress Appropriately for the Occasion Whether you’re attending your own graduation ceremony or a friend’s, stick to graduation dress code guidelines. A polished, semi-formal outfit is usually best for ceremonies, while grad parties can be more casual depending on the venue.

A blue sticky note pinned to a white surface with a handwritten graduation to-do list that includes ‘Wake up,’ ‘Get dressed,’ and ‘Graduate.’ A fun and motivational reminder for high school seniors preparing for graduation day. Perfect for Graduation Etiquette Guide, senior photography, and celebration planning.

Hosting or Attending Grad Parties the Right Way

Hosting a graduation party? Here’s how to make it a memorable celebration:

🎉 Pick a Date Early – Graduation weekends fill up fast! Lock in a date as soon as possible to avoid conflicts with other celebrations.

🎉 Decide on a Theme & Location – Whether you’re hosting at home or renting a venue, make sure to plan decorations, food, and activities in advance.

🎉 Send Invitations 4-6 Weeks in Advance – Give guests enough time to RSVP and make travel plans if needed.

If you’re attending a graduation party, keep these etiquette tips in mind:

Party-hopping is common, but make sure to personally congratulate the graduate before leaving.
Graduates don’t typically gift each other, but if your parents are invited, they may want to bring a small gift.
Always thank the host before heading out!

Get Your Free Grad Etiquette Guide!

Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t worry! My Graduation Etiquette Guide breaks down everything you need to know in one easy-to-follow resource. Inside, you’ll find: ✔️ The difference between graduation announcements and invitations ✔️ When and how to send invitations ✔️ Proper thank-you note etiquette ✔️ Hosting and attending graduation parties ✔️ And more!

🎁 Grab your free copy now by signing up here 🎁

Grad Etiquette Guide

Not only will you get the guide, but you’ll also receive exclusive tips on senior photography and special offers straight to your inbox!

Share the Love!

If you found this guide helpful, share it with your fellow graduates and parents! Let’s make graduation season stress-free and fun. And if you’re looking for the perfect way to capture your senior year, check out my senior photography sessions for stunning, high-quality photos to remember this milestone forever!

📸 Get in Touch & Let’s Plan Your Dream Senior Photos!

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Cheers to your graduation! 🎓✨