Graduation prep season is officially underway for the Class of 2026 and while you are busy booking photos, securing your outfit, and planning a senior trip, there is one modern tradition you might want to add to your list: mailing graduation invitations to your favorite brands. Every year, graduates take to TikTok and Instagram to share the surprising responses they receive from companies they love, ranging from handwritten notes and PR packages to gift cards and exclusive merch. The idea is simple: take any extra invitations you have or write a personalized letter and send them off to a corporate headquarters. Making your envelope stand out with decorations or sharing a story about how a brand played a role in your college experience can make your message feel more personal and impactful.
Whether you are serious about hearing back from your favorite brands or just want an excuse to host a low-effort girls’ night, sending out graduation invitations is a rewarding addition to any senior bucket list. Grab your extra invites, pull out the markers, and make a night of it. If something shows up in your mailbox later, consider it a little bonus to celebrate how far you have come.
While there is no guarantee of a response and goodies might even arrive after your ceremony, the effort is part of the fun. To give brands enough time to react, it is best to send your invitations at least six to eight weeks before you walk across the stage. Even if you do not receive a package, gathering your friends for a night of decorating envelopes serves as a perfect creative break from senior-year chaos.
If you are ready to give it a shot, here are ten brands that have a history of celebrating with graduates in the past.
Glossier
This beauty brand has built its reputation on being community-driven, so it is no surprise that some graduates have received celebratory notes and signature beauty products after mailing their invites.
Tru Fru
The viral chocolate-covered fruit brand has been known to surprise graduates with gift cards and sweet treats to help celebrate their big day.
Sanrio
If you are a Hello Kitty stan, take note that students have received adorable Sanrio merch and themed surprises after mailing in their graduation invitations.
Urban Outfitters
Since so many students take inspiration for their dorm decor from this retailer, it is worth sending them an invite to see if they will help you transition into your post-grad apartment.
Takis
The purple bag that everyone loves has sent graduates goodies in the past and some lucky students have even received personalized letters in return.
Lego
Lego has a reputation for responding to graduation invitations with thoughtful congratulatory letters and small building sets to commemorate the milestone.
Sesame Street
For a major childhood memory unlock, send an invite to this beloved show, which has been known to send heartwarming responses and signed autographs from the entire cast of characters.
Crumbl
The viral cookie brand has sent congratulatory messages and occasional free cookie vouchers to graduating seniors looking for a sweet reward.
Sun Bum
Sun Bum has surprised several grads with beachy merch and sun care essentials to help them kick off their final post-grad summer.
Chick-fil-A
Since so many students survive long study sessions thanks to these chicken nuggets, it is only right to send them an invite. Many graduates have reported receiving gift cards or vouchers for free meals to celebrate their achievements.
Chili’s
If you spent your college years grabbing dinner with friends at Chili’s, they might just return the love. The brand is known for its playful social media presence and has been known to send out gift cards or “Chili’s Love” packages to loyal fans marking big milestones.
Sports Teams
Whether it is a team in your hometown or your college city, several professional sports organizations have responded to invites with fan gear, signed photos, or letters welcoming grads to the next chapter.