Etiquette for Sending Graduation Announcements

Each year millions of high school and college graduation announcements are sent out. Many don't reach their intended destination because they are incorrectly addressed. It's important to understand the proper etiquette for addressing announcements and choosing whom to send them to.

Function

The graduation invitation welcomes those close to the graduate to attend the ceremony. Invitations should be sent out to family members and personal friends of the graduate or longtime family friends.

Time Frame

Many people who receive invitations do not attend the ceremony because of scheduling conflicts. Graduation invitations should be sent out four to six weeks before the ceremony to allow time for the addressees to make room in their schedule to attend.

Features

Most graduation invitations have both an internal and external envelope. The internal envelope may be addressed informally, while the external envelope should be formally addressed by hand, using the titles Mr. & Mrs., Miss, or Dr.

Size

Some schools may limit the number of guests that each graduate can invite. If this is the case, still send out announcements to close friends and family with a brief note stating that the seating is limited and inviting them to attend a party in the graduate's honor.

Warning

Failing to include a close family member because you don't have her address is not an appropriate excuse. If you must, contact her via phone to get her address or ask another family member if he has it.

References

• The Emily Post Institute

Resources

• Josten - Celebrating High School Graduation