Gifts for the GRADUATE

Stumped on what to give the graduate that has everything? Or better yet, nothing? Consider these ideas ranging from practical to elaborate:

1. Personalized Stationery: Custom stationery always makes a nice gift because it's both useful and personal. Three of my favorite stationery sites are suitorlife.com for a very simple, professional look and I love http://www.minted.com/, thebutternyc.com and Chloe B. for Crane for clean, modern designs.

2. Jewelry: Jewelry makes a lovely graduation gift. If you want the piece to have "meaning," the butterfly is representative of change and rebirth into a new life.

3. U-Haul rental: Moving costs pile up with an uncommon ease. Bestow a grad with an U-Haul rental for $20-30.

4. Gym Membership: The end of college or high school means an end to amenities - like well-stocked college gyms or mommy and daddy's auto-pay membership. A Bally Total Fitness membership is roughly $20/month with no enrollment fee right now. Pool together your money with a few family members and give the gift of health.

5. Bulk Store Membership: For a $50 Gold Star membership to Costco, you can help a poor graduate save a few bucks by purchasing massive amounts of Top Ramen.

6. Leather Agenda: A leather agenda is elegant and timeless. And even better if it comes in an orange box. Browse Hermes agenda covers here. Beware: Don't even bother clicking on the link unless you have deep pockets and/or you LOVE the graduate more than yourself.

7. Money (and wallet or money clip): Let's face it, every graduate really just wants one thing: CASH. If money feels a tad impersonal, dress it up by tucking a few bucks inside a classic wallet or engraved money clip.

8. Mattress: One shock of adulthood is realizing how expensive mattresses are. Help a grad out with a good bed so they are well rested for college exams or a hard days work.

9. Alarm Clock: A heavy-duty one is preferred for those newfound early mornings.

10. Laundry Gift Basket: Okay, so it's not the sexiest gift. But laundry - especially for laundromat-goers - requires many components. A basket, detergent, dryer sheets, fabric softener and a stock of quarters might encourage a grad to take care of his or her hygiene. Empower your grad by equipping them with the keys to personal cleanliness.

11. Hip Kits: These clever little care packages make a fun gift for the graduating student. Check out the Freshman Survival Kit or the Career Kit.