Graduation Etiquette in the COVID-19 Era

As graduation season rolls around the corner many parents may be wondering how they can celebrate their new graduates' milestone during the COVID-19 era. What is the protocol on canceling a grad party? What is the best way to send out announcements? Don’t worry! We’ve got you covered.

Sending announcements can still go on as scheduled! Although your graduate may not have the option (yet) to stand up during commencement, they have done the work nonetheless and deserve to be recognized. Get out a pen and paper and write a list of family and friends who will be excited to know that you’re little one isn’t so little anymore. We have customized cards for this special occasion.

Now the tough part, the grad party. Here are the best ways to handle the following scenarios:

Invites have already been sent out

Contact the guest list asap with an update on the party. If you plan to cancel include a note like, “We would love to celebrate Lily’s graduation with you, but we want to put the health and safety of our friends and family first. Therefore, we will be canceling the party on June 1st.”  

If you plan to postpone, we suggest sending the cancellation notice with a Save the Date card. Just the prospect of a party on the horizon may put your loved ones in a great mood. 

Make sure to contact any venues or caterers that you may have hired to understand what their cancellation or rescheduling protocol may be. 

The party must go on!

Technology will never replace human interaction but it can be a great substitute. If canceling the party is out of the question, throw a virtual one! HouseParty, an app on your phone, allows you to play games like Trivia, Draw Something, and Chips & Guac (a take on Cards Against Humanity). Don’t be afraid to get creative! 

Drive-by parties are also on the rise. Throw up some graduation balloons and have friends and family drive by to offer their congratulations from the car. Play outdoor games with the family during the downtime. Don’t forget to buy a cake and offer a slice to your friends! 

Need help with the invites? Send us a message! We would love to make your grad feel extra special...and we can chat over the phone so we’re socially distancing ourselves!