There’s a lot of pomp and circumstance in the air this time of year. Celebrations are around every corner, send-offs at every turn, and there’s a quiet urge to soak it all in. Graduation season is about goodbyes, new beginnings, and everything in between—oh, and all the feelings that come with it. To allow for more time to squeeze your senior just a little tighter, host a few more solo cry sessions in the pantry, and fully embrace just how darn proud you are, we offer you this Guide to Graduation. Consider it our gift to you–your go-to for making the most of this unforgettable season.
Look the Part
Need a quick trim before graduation? You’ll want to be ready for any cell phone or professional camera that comes your way. And how do you keep your hair intact under that cap and tassel when it’s time for the big toss? Leave it to the experts at Waconia Barbers and The Beauty Room. They’ll get your locks prepped and polished for graduation day. waconiabarbers.com, facebook.com/beautyroomwaconia1/
In Minnesota, May temperatures are a mixed bag. For that perfect under the commencement gown look, stop into The Stash and Shop Chicks Boutique. They’ll help you find a comfortable, stylish put-together look. Or maybe you’d like to show some school spirit! Spirit wear is in abundance at Nice Shirt Co. All three local shops can also help you create a flawless graduation party ensemble. thestashstyle.com, shopchicksco.com, niceshirtco.com
Grad-Approved Gifts
For timeless gifts and meaningful keepsakes for your favorite senior, Infinity Diamond Jewelers offers pieces that will be cherished for years to come. Or for a more relaxed feel, visit Lakeside Loft, where you’ll find something for every graduate on your list. infinitydiamondjewelers.com, facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573745385629
Celebrate in Style
Franklin Printing is your go-to for custom invitations, celebratory yard signs, and heartfelt thank you cards. franklinprintinginc.com
To check essentials like tents, tables, chairs, linens, and fun extras like a popcorn machine (or, just saying, a bouncy house), lean on K and K Fun Time to do it right. kkfuntime.com
Bring back a little dose of childhood with The Ice Cream Princess parked front row at your party. Delicious, charming, and fun for you and your guests. theicecreamprincess.com
If you want to dial up the ambiance at your party, give Main St. Floral and Victoria Rose Floral a call. They can help with school color centerpieces, mini bouquets, and other arrangements sure to bring your celebration to life. mainstfloral.com, victoriarosefloral.com
Festive Fare
To customize your menu based on all your grads’ favorites, you’ll want to look into what Buddy Boy Catering has to offer. Besides amazing food, their specialty is making your day unforgettable. You can also hire Sweet Wink’s to roll in and serve up crowd-pleasing classics. sweetwinksfood.com
A memorable graduation party isn’t complete without some gather-worthy sweets to pass around. Bakery on Main delivers its congratulations through scrumptious cookies, cupcakes, and other delectable treats. bakeryonmainmn.com
Custom cakes, cookies, pastries, and dessert trays—and so much more— are where Mackenthun’s festive spirit shines. mackenthuns.com/waconia-gatherings