Graduation Day 101 🎓

What to do, wear & bring for the big day

So… the essays are done, the all-nighters are behind you, and your student discount is about to expire 😭 That can only mean one thing: Graduation Day is here! Let’s make sure you slay the stage, look sharp in your pics, and don’t forget anything important.

Here’s your no-stress, no-cringe guide to graduation—from cap to celebration 🥂

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What even is graduation day?

It’s basically the ultimate uni flex. You pop on a cap and gown, walk across a stage, and get recognised for surviving deadlines, dodgy group projects, and possibly a few identity crises. You’ll:

• Grab your gown and cap 🎓

• Snap a few (hundred) pics 📸

• Sit through some speeches

• Walk the stage and grab your moment of glory 🌟

Heads up: most unis send your real degree in the post later—so what you get on stage is more for the vibe.

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Before the big day: Your glow-up checklist ✅

🔲 Order your gown: Do this at least 3 weeks ahead! Sizes go fast.
🔲 Book photos: Want fancy pics for the fam fridge? Book early.
🔲 Invite your people: Most grads only get 2–3 tickets, so choose your hype squad wisely.
🔲 Sort somewhere to stay: If you’re travelling back for graduation, book a hotel or crash with mates.
🔲 Plan the afterparty: Whether it’s brunch, drinks or a fancy dinner—lock it in and get your gang involved.
🔲 Check your emails: Times, locations, rules… it’ll all be in your inbox (somewhere under the Domino’s offers).

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What to wear (and what not to)

Let’s be real—you’re gonna be photographed a lot. So wear something you feel confident in but remember:

👗 Smart but comfy – Dresses, shirts, jumpsuits, or suits are all fair game
☀️ Weather-ready – Graduation = summer + cap + gown = warm. Light colours and breathable fabrics win.
👟 Sensible shoes – You’ll be walking up stairs and across a stage. Maybe rethink the 6-inch heels?
📌 Secure the fit – Pin your hood + cap unless you want a gown malfunction on stage.

Pro tip: hood designs work best over shirts with collars or ties. If you’re wearing a dress, double up with safety pins. You’ll thank us later.

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On the day: How to own it 💅

⏰ Arrive early – Like, 1–2 hours early. You’ll need time to get your gown, snap pics, and find your seat.
💄 Freshen up – Long-wear makeup and a cute hairstyle (that works with a cap!) = photo gold.
🌧️ Weather check – Bring a brolly if needed. UK weather never behaves.
🎓 Collect your gown – Staff will help you get dressed if you’re confused by all the robes.
📷 Document everything – Take loads of pics with your mates, your fam, your fave lecturers—go wild.
📜 Protect your degree – Keep it flat, clean and safe. Maybe invest in a folder?

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Parents, fam & plus-ones: Read this bit too 💌

Your grad’s got the spotlight, but you’ve got a role too. Here’s how to smash it:

💡 Know the plan – Double-check ceremony times and ticket details.
🏨 Book early – Hotels fill up fast!
👗 Dress the part – It’s a formal event, so dress smart-ish. Think weddings, not Wetherspoons.
📸 Be the paparazzi – Snap pics when the grad’s busy, they’ll thank you later.
🎁 Bring a lil gift – A card, flowers, or something meaningful. Bonus points for creativity.
🎉 Let them celebrate – Give them time to vibe with their uni friends, too.

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Final vibe: Celebrate like you mean it 🎉

Whether it’s a family meal, a cheeky pint at your fave pub, or dancing ’til 2am—make it yours. Graduation is a huge deal, and you’ve earned every second of it. Own the moment. Share the selfies. Frame the certificate.

And hey, if you’re sticking around Bolton for postgrad, you know where to find us—book your next room at Orlando Village. 👀