Graduation can sneak up on you in no time, whether you’re a student prepping for finals or the proud parent of a high school or college senior. Like most people, you’re likely wondering, “When do you send out graduation announcements?” and “Who do you send graduation announcements to?” The good news: we’re here to help. Last-minute planning can mean announcements go out late, giving recipients little time to prepare for the celebration or gift-giving—and sometimes even causing people in your circle to be left off your mailing list. Our guide will steer you, step by step, through when to send graduation announcements, who to send them to, and more.
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- When Do You Send Out Graduation Announcements
- How To Send Graduation Announcements
- Who To Send Graduation Announcements To
When Do You Send Out Graduation Announcements?
Generally speaking, graduation announcements should be sent at least two weeks before the graduation ceremony. If your announcements don’t include a graduation party invitation, they can also be sent up to six weeks after the event.
With that flexibility, you may still be wondering when the best time is to send them. Mailing your announcements in the weeks leading up to graduation is ideal. This gives friends and family a heads-up just before the milestone happens and allows them time to celebrate your graduate, send congratulations, or choose a thoughtful graduation gift.
Another important factor to consider is how far your announcements need to travel. If you’re mailing cards to friends or family across the country—or internationally—be sure to allow extra time for delivery. Factoring in postal time helps ensure everyone receives your graduation announcement promptly and has time to respond.
How To Send Graduation Announcements
Knowing when to send graduation announcements is only part of the process. Making sure they’re properly prepared and mailed helps ensure they arrive on time. Keep the following tips in mind as you get ready to send yours:
- Order announcements well in advance: Aim to order at least a month ahead, especially if you’re including newly taken graduation photos.
- Create a mailing list early: Compiling addresses ahead of time helps prevent anyone from being accidentally missed. Use Shutterfly’s free online address book service to make this process extra simple.
- Use correct titles and names: Double-check preferred titles and spelling for each recipient.
- Confirm addresses: Accurate addresses are key to timely delivery.
- Check postage requirements: Square envelopes or heavier cards may require additional postage.
- Mail with enough lead time: Send announcements at least two weeks in advance, and earlier for long-distance recipients.
Who To Send Graduation Announcements To
Once you’ve decided when and how to send graduation announcements, the next step is choosing who should receive one. As a general rule, announcements are appropriate for anyone who has played a meaningful role in your graduate’s life or would appreciate being included in this milestone. Many families also send graduation announcements to everyone on their Christmas card list.
Here’s a helpful guideline when building your mailing list:
- Close friends and family: These are must-sends. They’ll love celebrating the accomplishment and keeping the announcement as a keepsake.
- Extended family and acquaintances: If you typically exchange holiday cards, it’s appropriate to send a graduation announcement as well.
- Teachers, mentors, and tutors: Anyone who supported your graduate throughout their academic journey may appreciate receiving one.
- Ask the graduate: Your grad may have specific people they’d like included, helping ensure no one important is overlooked.
When Do You Send Out Graduation Announcements: More Resources
When it comes to the question of when to send graduation announcements, keep in mind the date of the event, don’t forget about the distance of your card recipients, and make sure you include those recipients special to the grad on the guest list. If you need more tips and ideas, explore our related resources:
