Most graduates I've known just wanted everyone to buy something to drink and bring it to the party! But of course you will probably want to give something more special and permanent.

The typical thing for graduation is to give something personalised - there is a huge range of smallish gifts you can get. If you want to give something small, you can get something as simple as a jar of sweets or wine holder with the graduate's name on, and of course the all-important graduation date. Larger presents include photo frames and engraved champagne sets.

But if you don't want to get something typical, think about who you are buying for and what he or she would really like. Parents often get their children something big for their graduation, something that will really help them in their new life. You could also think about a practical present, like something for their new home if they have one, or just take them out for a meal/party etc to celebrate this new phase of life.