Companies to send graduation invites to for free stuff: Graduation marks a significant milestone, and many companies are eager to join in the celebration by offering freebies and special deals to new graduates. By sending your graduation announcements to select businesses, you can receive a variety of complimentary items and discounts. This guide provides a comprehensive list of companies known to reward graduates, along with tips on how to maximize these opportunities.
1. Chick-fil-A
Chick-fil-A has a history of responding to graduation announcements with generous gift packages. Graduates have reported receiving boxes filled with branded merchandise and coupons for free meals.
How to Reach Out:
- Address: Chick-fil-A Inc., Attn: CARES, P.O. Box 725489, Atlanta, GA 31139-99923, USA.
- Note: Include a personalized letter expressing your appreciation for their role during your academic journey.
2. In-N-Out Burger
In-N-Out Burger has been known to send congratulatory letters and occasionally branded merchandise to graduates who share their achievements.
How to Reach Out:
- Address: In-N-Out Burger, 4199 Campus Drive, 9th Floor, Irvine, CA 92612, USA.
- Note: Share your favorite experiences and express gratitude for their support during your studies.
3. Lego
Lego appreciates hearing from fans and has responded to graduation announcements with personalized letters and small gifts.
How to Reach Out:
- Address: LEGO Systems, Inc., 555 Taylor Road, Enfield, CT 06082, USA.
- Note: Highlight how Lego products have inspired creativity throughout your education.
4. Neutrogena
Neutrogena has been known to send samples of their skincare products to graduates who reach out with their announcements.
How to Reach Out:
- Address: Neutrogena Corporation, 5760 W 96th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90045, USA.
- Note: Express how their products have been a part of your daily routine during college.
5. Johnson’s Baby
Johnson’s Baby often provides samples of their baby care products, which can be useful gifts for graduates with young families or expecting parents.
How to Reach Out:
- Address: Johnson & Johnson Consumer Inc., 199 Grandview Road, Skillman, NJ 08558, USA.
- Note: Share any personal stories of using their products or plans to use them in the future.
6. Chobani
Chobani has been known to send coupons for free products to graduates who send in their announcements.
How to Reach Out:
- Address: Chobani, LLC, 147 State Highway 320, Norwich, NY 13815, USA.
- Note: Mention how their products have been a healthy snack option during your studies.
7. Friendly’s
Friendly’s has a tradition of sending $10 gift cards to individuals who send them special announcements.
How to Reach Out:
- Address: Friendly’s Ice Cream, LLC, 1855 Boston Road, Wilbraham, MA 01095, USA.
- Note: Express your fondness for their treats and any memorable experiences at their establishments.
8. Corona
Corona has been known to send branded merchandise such as bottle openers and beer sleeves to graduates.
How to Reach Out:
- Address: Constellation Brands, Inc., 207 High Point Drive, Building 100, Victor, NY 14564, USA.
- Note: Share your appreciation for their products and how they’ve been part of your celebrations.
9. TGI Fridays
TGI Fridays offers special deals for graduates, such as bonus cards when purchasing gift cards.
How to Reach Out:
- Address: TGI Fridays, 4201 Marsh Lane, Carrollton, TX 75007, USA.
- Note: Mention your favorite dishes and any celebratory events you’ve held at their restaurants.
10. Panda Express
Panda Express has promotions where purchasing gift cards can earn you free meals, a great way to celebrate your graduation.
How to Reach Out:
- Address: Panda Restaurant Group, Inc., 1683 Walnut Grove Avenue, Rosemead, CA 91770, USA.
- Note: Express your enjoyment of their cuisine and how it’s been a staple during your college years.
11. Microsoft
Microsoft offers free access to Office 365 Education for students and graduates with a valid school email address.
How to Access:
- Website: Microsoft Office 365 Education
- Note: Sign up using your school-provided email to continue benefiting from their services post-graduation.
12. Minted
Minted provides discounts on graduation cards and gifts, helping you thank those who supported you throughout your academic journey.
How to Access:
- Website: Minted Graduation Offers
- Note: Use the promo code CLASSOF24 to save 15% on graduation cards and gift orders.
Tips for Maximizing Graduation Freebies
- Personalize Your Announcements: Include a heartfelt note explaining why you’re reaching out and how the company has impacted your life.
- Provide Proof of Graduation: Attach a copy of your diploma or a graduation photo to authenticate your request.
- Be Polite and Grateful: A courteous approach increases the likelihood of receiving a positive response.
- Start Early: Companies may take time to process requests, so send your announcements well in advance.
Share on Social Media for More Freebies
Many companies love seeing graduates celebrate their success and might offer free stuff in exchange for a social media post. Here’s how to make the most of it:
- Tag the Brand: When posting your graduation pictures or thank-you messages, tag the company on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook.
- Use Hashtags: Companies often have hashtags like #GradGifts, #Classof2024, or #FreebieFriday, which might increase your chances of being noticed.
- Share Your Story: If the company played a special role in your college journey (e.g., you lived on Chick-fil-A nuggets or used Microsoft Office for all your projects), mention it in your post!
Graduation Freebies Beyond Physical Gifts
While many companies offer free merchandise, others provide exclusive discounts or perks for new graduates. Here are a few additional opportunities:
1. Restaurant & Food Freebies
- Buffalo Wild Wings: Offers a free snack-size wings order when you join their rewards program.
- Krispy Kreme: Sometimes runs promotions for free doughnuts for grads who visit in their cap and gown.
- Dunkin’ Donuts: Occasionally offers free coffee or doughnuts to graduates with a valid school ID.
2. Travel Discounts for Graduates
- Southwest Airlines: Sometimes offers student and recent graduate discounts on flights.
- Amtrak: Provides student discounts, which can sometimes be extended to recent graduates.
- Airbnb: Occasionally runs promo codes for students and graduates booking their first trip.
3. Tech & Software Perks
- Adobe: Offers a discount on Creative Cloud for recent graduates.
- Spotify & Hulu Student Bundle: Some students find they can keep their $5 monthly subscription for a short time after graduation before transitioning to regular pricing.
- Best Buy Student Deals: Register with Best Buy’s student program and continue receiving tech discounts post-graduation.
How to Make the Most of Graduation Freebies
- Make a List: Keep track of the companies you want to send graduation invites to.
- Be Sincere: Write a heartfelt letter or email explaining why the company matters to you.
- Follow Up: If you don’t hear back within a few weeks, a polite email follow-up can help.
- Stay Updated: Some offers may be seasonal or change year to year. Always check a company’s website or social media for announcements.
- Join Loyalty Programs: Even if you don’t get a freebie immediately, signing up can help you score exclusive graduate deals in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What companies send free gifts to graduates?
Several companies, including Chick-fil-A, In-N-Out, Lego, and Neutrogena, have been known to send free merchandise or coupons to graduates.
2. Do I need to provide proof of graduation?
While not always required, attaching a graduation photo or copy of your diploma increases your chances of receiving a gift.
3. How long does it take to receive free graduation gifts?
Response times vary. Some companies reply within a few weeks, while others may take longer or send items seasonally.
4. Are there digital freebies for graduates?
Yes! Companies like Microsoft, Adobe, and Spotify offer student discounts that sometimes extend post-graduation.
5. Can I send graduation invitations via email instead of mail?
Some companies accept digital requests, while others prefer traditional mailed invites. Checking each company’s policy is the best approach.
Graduation is a momentous occasion, and companies love celebrating with you! By taking the time to send graduation invitations to the right brands, you can receive free merchandise, discounts, and even surprise gifts. Make the most of this exciting time by reaching out and enjoying the perks of being a new graduate!