Dads, Grads, Weddings and More!

Graduations. Father’s Day. Showers and weddings galore, maybe with a few birthday parties thrown in for good measure. It seems like June is a never-ending parade of celebrations – and there are usually gifts or other expenses involved. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, there are ways to reduce the expense and the stress.

Father’s Day

Feeling pressure about how to honor Dad on Father’s Day? Relax. More than anything else, what most dads want is the gift of time with the people they love. Grilling out is a perfect way to celebrate. The menu can be as simple as burgers and hot dogs or whatever Dad’s favorite meal is – as long as it fits within your budget.

Graduations

Graduation season extends well into June for all ages – from nursery school to college. If you receive an announcement or get invited to the big event, keep in mind that it’s possible to find gifts they’ll appreciate (like a gadget from the electronics store or a restaurant gift card) that won’t cost an arm and a leg.

If you have a son or daughter graduating from high school this year, you already know that senior year can be expensive. Throwing a graduation party is yet another expense, but there are ways to make it more affordable. Joining forces with other parents, using things you already have on hand for decorations and keeping the refreshments simple can help.

Graduation, especially of the high school or college variety, is a big milestone for young people, their parents and other family members. For others who may not be as close to the graduate, the rules for gift-giving and attendance may be a little confusing. Say you receive an announcement. Is it necessary to give a gift? As reported by Lifezette, just sending a card is fine if you’re not involved in the graduate’s life. If you’re close to the grad, invited to the graduation party or invited to the ceremony, a gift is appropriate.

And speaking of the ceremony, here’s something else to remember: Receiving a graduation announcement isn’t the same as receiving an invitation to the graduation itself. Most schools put strict limits on the number of guests each graduate can invite. If you rated high enough to receive an invitation, a gift is in order. And if you can’t attend, let the graduate or the parents know as soon as possible. That way your ticket can be given to someone else.

Weddings

If you’ve been invited to a wedding, it’s appropriate to give a gift. But there are all kinds of couples and all kinds of weddings. The gift you choose to give, not to mention the cost, may depend on the couple and your relationship with them.

Questions and confusion are common when it comes to wedding gifts. Is cash appropriate? If you bought a shower gift, are you expected to spring for a wedding gift, too? Is it ok to pitch in on a group gift? Should you take your gift to the reception? For answers to those questions and more, check out Gifting 101: 9 Wedding Gift Etiquette Rules to Go By.

Keeping it Affordable – and Fun

No matter how you decide to handle all the gifting and other expenses, remember to enjoy the good times. June only rolls around once a year!