My BFF at work invited me to her two son's graduation party (one is graduating high school, one is graduating from law school). I've never met the graduates but I know a lot about them (I've known my co-worker for about 1.5 yrs and we're great friends at work). I don't want to go to the party empty handed and want to give each a small gift. I was thinking gift card but then I saw a groupon for something I thought they might like. Do you think it's tacky to print out and give a Groupon for a gift?
Looks like the majority say 'tacky' which is what my gut said too. Thanks for all the responses. I was really curious what you thought. I will probably get a gift card to the same place I was going to get the Groupon for, it'll just cost more. I don't want to go empty handed and I know my friend would do the same for my kids. Thank you!
cash or gift card. I recieved a groupon for christmas once. and ended up donating it to a charity auction as it is not something I was interested in doing. I would skip it if I was you.
It depends. I would ask your friend to see if they would use it. I have found some super services, amazing events and food deals on Groupon.
One was for steak dinners for 2 and then a show.. Incredible night.
In our life with OUR close friends, this would be considered awesome!
But we are pretty laid back people down here.
Gift card or cash vote here as well. Even if a Groupon weren't tacky -- the chances are that the high schooler, at least, will forget to use it, not really know how to use it, etc. A gift card is like cash, goes right into the wallet, and can be used instantly. If someone gave me Groupon and I found I had to register with their web site to use it, or find others to "go in" with me to get the deal and use the coupon, I would very likely not use it in the end. Not sure if those things happen but if they do -- it might reduce the chances your gift would get used.
Tacky in my book and something I would never do.
Most graduates love cash or gift cards.
Sorry, but I vote tacky. Gift card or cash. We've been doing college tours with our junior son and on every tour the student tour guides point out how "free food" is really a highlight for college students. So, cash or a gift card to a popular food or coffee spot.
Yes, that would be tacky.
I would just do cash. A groupon sounds tacky to me.
A gift card that will fit in their wallet and they could use toward their needs would be easier.
Yes. You don't give a gift that requires the recipient to spend money in order to use it.
Funny how it's viewed as tacky yet if you're paying for it, is it really different than buying someone a gift that's on sale?... But I would avoid it just bc of expiration issues, lack of flexibility etc. That's why I never buy groupons for myself. I feel like it's so specific that unless I was about to go buy or do xzy that day anyway, it'll never get used.
the only way that would be okay is if you knew 'em really, really well and were sure they'd love it. it's really not appropriate for a more casual friendship like this. go with a straight-up gift card.
khairete
S.
Yes, tacky. Plus, I've had several friends who have had Groupon that were not accepted by the place it was for. Do a gift card or cash.
I agree with Laurie A. Personally, I would love it. But it might be considered "cheap" by some. Since you are so close to the Mom, I would ask...
Gift card or cash.
