How To Write The Perfect Graduation Card

Since you've already planned an amazing graduation party, picked out a unique graduation gift, and figured out the appropriate outfit to wear to the ceremony, it's time to decide what to write in a graduation card. It may seem like a small part of the celebration, but it's actually more meaningful than you may think.

Graduation weekends are filled with fun celebrations, sorrowful goodbyes, and unforgettable moments, but it all goes by in a flash. Before you know it, the caps have been tossed, the dorm rooms have been emptied, and it's time to put the past behind you and charge full-speed ahead into the unknown. With all that excitement going on, it's hard for any graduate to really process everything that's happening, and it flies by far too fast.

That's where graduation cards come in handy. Sweet and sentimental or funny and inspirational, graduation cards are a great medium for you to express whatever sentiment it is you want your graduate to know, and one they can hold on to for days when they need a reminder.

In case you're having a hard time coming up with the right thing to say, here are 11 ideas to help you write the perfect graduation card, because saying "congratulations" doesn't quite cover it.

1. A Favorite Memory

If you and your friends are heading in different directions after graduation, make sure to inscribe their card with something meaningful, like one of your favorite memories together. Whether it was a night out on the town, a midnight study session, or an amazing spring break, those memories will be cherished forever, so give your friend a little reminder of how much they mean to you.

2. Song Lyrics

Did you and your friend have a song you always studied to, a hit you rocked out to while getting ready for a night out, or a sentimental song you turned to when your chips were down? Whether it's a Beatles classic or lyrics from Beyonce's Lemonade, a pump-it-up jam or an inspiring ballad, words from a meaningful song can say everything for you.

3. A Literary Quote

Like song lyrics, a quote from a book can be a great way of expressing how you feel without having to come up with the words yourself.

4. A Personalized Story

If you're the creative type, try creating a short but thoughtful story for the inside of your loved one's greeting card instead of a standard congratulatory message. It can be a fairy tale about the future, or a fantastic tale about adventures to come. Whatever you decide to write, make sure it has a happy ending.

5. Thoughts About The Future

You already know that your loved one is going to do great things after they graduate, but it doesn't hurt to reassure them. Write your hopes and dreams for their future on their card, so whenever they doubt themselves, they have something to remind them of how amazing they are destined to be.

6. A Thank You

If your friend helped you get through school as your study buddy, shoulder to cry on, or constant cheerleader, make sure you not only congratulate them on their achievements, but thank them for helping you reach yours. Gratitude goes a long way.

7. Sincere Advice

If you're older and wiser, then it's only fair that you pass on some some of your wisdom to the recent grad in your life. Write as many wise words as you can think of, because once they get into the real world, these graduates are going to need it.

8. Genuine Praise

"Congratulations" only goes so far. Whether it was what they accomplished in school or how they're going to succeed in the future, tell your special graduate exactly what makes you so proud of them, and don't be afraid to lay it on thick. Graduations only come around every once in a while.

9. A Lighthearted Joke

Graduation is a tricky emotional time, so instead of making your friend or family member cry with a sappy inscription, write a joke in their graduation card. At the least, it will make them laugh between the confused tears and cries of jubilation.

10. Plans To Reunite

It's hard to say farewell at graduation, but your goodbyes don't have to be forever. Use the graduation card to make plans about meeting again, whether it's for a beach trip over the summer or a girls' weekend in either of your new home cities. Your friend will love knowing you'll see each other again.

11. Good Luck & Well Wishes

You might not know the right piece of advice to share with a graduate, or maybe you have a hard time being sweet and sentimental, but there is one thing you should always include on a graduation card: a wish for good luck and a happy future. After all, graduation is only the beginning.

Image: Christopher Furlong/Getty Images News/Getty Images; Giphy