Graduation is an incredible milestone, marking the completion of years of hard work, dedication, and growth. Whether it’s your own achievement or your child’s, celebrating this moment with family and friends is essential. One of the first steps in making the celebration official is sending out graduation invitations that reflect the significance of this special day.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about graduation invitation wording—what to include, creative examples, tips for different types of graduations, and answers to common questions. Let’s dive into how you can craft a message that captures the excitement of the moment while honoring the journey behind it.
What to Include in Your Graduation Invitation
When planning your graduation party invitations, it’s important to include all the essential details in a way that aligns with the tone and style you envision for your celebration. Whether you want something formal, casual, or fun, every invitation should contain the following:
The Graduate’s Name
Celebrate the graduate by clearly stating their name and degree (if applicable).
School Name & Degree
Mention the school and degree (or diploma) the graduate is receiving.
Graduation Ceremony Details (If Inviting Guests)
Include the date, time, and location of the graduation ceremony.
Party Details
If you’re hosting a party, make sure to include the location, date, time, and any other important instructions.
RSVP Information
Be clear about how and when guests should RSVP. Provide a phone number, email, or website.
Dress Code (Optional)
If you have a specific theme or dress code, add a line about it.
Special Instructions (Optional)
Whether it’s bringing something for a potluck or a reminder to bring a mask for a post-pandemic ceremony, include any extra details guests may need.
High School Graduation Invitation Wording Examples
High school graduation is a huge accomplishment and deserves to be celebrated in style. Your high school graduation invitation wording should reflect the pride and excitement of the moment. From formal announcements to casual invites, here are some examples to inspire your own.
Formal High School Graduation Invitation
“Together with great pride and joy,
we invite you to celebrate the graduation of
[Graduate’s Name]
from [High School Name].
Join us for the graduation ceremony on
[Date] at [Time]
[Location].
A celebration will follow at [Party Location] at [Time].
RSVP by [Date] to [Contact Info].”
Casual High School Graduation Invitation
“Hey friends and family,
[Graduate’s Name] is graduating from [High School Name]!
Join us to celebrate on [Date] at [Time]
at [Party Location].
We’ll have food, music, and plenty of fun!
RSVP by [Date] to [Contact Info].”
Fun High School Graduation Invitation
“Hats off to the graduate!
You’re invited to [Graduate’s Name]’s graduation bash!
When: [Date], [Time]
Where: [Party Location]
Get ready for fun, food, and plenty of memories!
Please RSVP by [Date].”
College Graduation Invitation Wording Examples
College graduation marks the next step in your academic and professional journey. Whether you’re sending out invites for your own celebration or planning for a loved one, your college graduation invitation wording can be both inspirational and informative. Use these examples of graduation invitations to showcase your achievements and set the tone for your celebration.
Formal College Graduation Invitation
“With great pride and joy,
we announce the graduation of
[Graduate’s Name]
from [University Name] with a degree in [Field of Study].
Please join us for a celebration
on [Date] at [Time]
[Location].
RSVP by [Date] to [Contact Info].”
Casual College Graduation Invitation
“Guess who’s finally done with college?
[Graduate’s Name] is graduating from [University Name] with a degree in [Field of Study]!
Let’s celebrate this achievement together on [Date] at [Time]
at [Party Location].
RSVP by [Date] to [Contact Info].”
Future-Focused College Graduation Invitation
“The future is bright!
Join us as we celebrate
[Graduate’s Name]
and their graduation from [University Name].
Date: [Date]
Time: [Time]
Location: [Party Location]
Let’s raise a toast to new beginnings!”
Other Graduation Invitation Wording Examples
Graduations come in all shapes and sizes, from kindergarten to graduate school. No matter the level, your graduation party invitation wording should reflect the significance of this special milestone. Explore these examples for everything from preschool graduations to PhDs, ensuring your invites capture the moment perfectly.
Preschool or Kindergarten Graduation Invitation
“Little steps, big dreams!
[Graduate’s Name] is graduating from kindergarten!
Join us for a celebration on [Date] at [Time]
at [Party Location].
RSVP to [Contact Info].”
Homeschool Graduation Invitation
“Join us as we celebrate the culmination of
[Graduate’s Name]’s homeschool journey!
Date: [Date]
Time: [Time]
Location: [Party Location]
RSVP by [Date] to [Contact Info].”
Graduate School Graduation Invitation
“With great pride,
we announce the graduation of
[Graduate’s Name],
who has earned their [Degree Name] from [University Name].
Celebrate with us on [Date] at [Time]
at [Party Location].
RSVP by [Date] to [Contact Info].”
Graduation Invitation Etiquette & Tips
Here are some tips to keep in mind when preparing and sending your graduation invitations:
Who to Invite to a Graduation Party
Graduation is a personal milestone, so feel free to invite family members, close friends, mentors, and teachers who played a special role in the graduate’s journey. For larger events, you may want to extend the guest list to neighbors, distant relatives, and family friends. If you’re limited on space or budget, prioritize those who have been most influential in the graduate’s life.
When to Send Graduation Invitations
The best time to send out your graduation invitations is 4-6 weeks before the event. This gives your guests plenty of time to plan, RSVP, and arrange their schedules around other commitments. If you’re inviting people to a graduation ceremony, check with the school for any ticket limitations and include that information in the invitation.
How to Cater to Dietary Restrictions
If you’re hosting a party and serving food, be sure to ask your guests in advance if they have any dietary restrictions. Whether it’s gluten-free, vegan, or allergy considerations, you can plan your menu to accommodate all your guests and make everyone feel comfortable. You can include a note on the RSVP card or ask people to inform you directly.
Should You Include Graduation Announcements?
Yes! Graduation announcements are a great way to share the news with those who may not be attending the ceremony or party. Send them to extended family, friends, and anyone else you want to inform about this major achievement.
Frequently Asked Questions about Graduation Invitations
When should I start planning my graduation party?
Start planning at least 2-3 months in advance. This will give you enough time to book a venue, order decorations, and finalize details like the guest list and catering.
Should I plan graduation party activities?
Yes! Graduation parties are a perfect time to include fun activities to keep your guests entertained. From photo booths and graduation games to speech moments, activities can make the party more engaging.
What else can I do to celebrate graduation?
Aside from a party, you can send out personalized graduation announcements, share graduation thank you cards, or create memorable graduation gifts to mark the milestone. Explore Shutterfly for all your graduation needs for the Class of 2025.
Related Resources on Graduation Invitation Wording & Examples
Graduation is a monumental moment in life, and your invitations should reflect the joy and excitement of this achievement. Whether you’re planning a high school, college, or any other type of graduation, these wording ideas and tips will help you create the perfect message. As you prepare to celebrate this milestone, remember that Shutterfly offers beautiful, customizable options to make every detail of your invitations and announcements as unique as the graduate themselves.
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