Graduation Ideas in Glasgow…
Thousands of students graduate from Glasgow, Strathclyde and Glasgow Caledonian Universities each year, which means that they and their families and friends want to celebrate their achievements, and in particular their Graduation Day. Whatever the scale of the celebrations the West End has everything you need, finds Anne Marie Hillan.
For many years I suspected that the best weather in Glasgow is in May. I actually know that for certain as the best weather was when I had to study for exams – particularly school exams but also college and university exams. So, it’s no wonder that when Graduation Season comes around students just want to celebrate. All those sunny days sacrificed for hard work and studying have at last come to an end.
Now graduates to be, let me tell you something! This is a day that is likely to be captured in a photo that will be displayed for evermore in your parent’s home. 37 years later I can tell you I wish I had made a bit more of an effort for just that reason!
But What to Wear?
So, let’s start with graduation wear. On the day you will be seen around Glasgow and in the West End, particularly on University Avenue and Byres Road, in your graduation gown but what do you wear underneath? Many male graduates now wear kilts for the big occasion. If you like that idea there’s no need to go into town, MacGregor MacDuff have everything you need for kilt wear at their West End shop on Dumbarton Road. You can book an appointment on 0141 280 3398 with kilt hire starting at £85. Students getting a 50% discount on the hire of any of their standard kilt outfits.
And as for women – well graduation wear was always meant to be a bit subdued. A dark dress seems to be obligatory. There are some amazing styles available at Catherines of Partick, like the Kacey Twist, shown left. Perfect under a graduation gown but also when relaxing later with a celebratory drink in hand. This is an absolute head turner! Catherine’s work an appointment system too. Ladies, if you need occasion wear, then honestly make an appointment – they have a gorgeous range of stylishly cut dresses and jumpsuits.
For graduation jewellery look no further than The Nancy Smilie Shop. With an extensive range curated by Nancy Smillie herself, you’re bound to be struck by something more unusual. I love their Greek Designer jewellery range. I wish the 1987 me had The Nancy Smilie Shop to visit.
Graduations are of course a family event and for every graduate there are mums, sisters, girlfriends and wives that want to look great on the ‘hopefully’ lovely summer day celebrations. So, head into Jasmine Boutique on Hyndland Road. They have a range of dresses just perfect for the big day, which will also serve you all summer long.
Look Your Best…
Outfits sorted the next step is hair and beauty. The West End also has your whole graduation party well catered for by talented hairdressers who can have you looking fabulous. The Rainbow Room International team on Great Western Road are well used to looking after graduates, parents and family who have travelled from abroad for the Graduation Day. Whole families visit the salon and there is always great excitement.
And Ellen Conlin Hair and Beauty have put together a Graduation Day Westender Package where you can book Make-up, Nails and Blow dry for £100. A one stop shop for all your hair and beauty needs on the big day.
Let’s Celebrate!
After the Graduation ceremony is over most families embrace the chance to celebrate. Now you don’t need me to tell you that the West End is absolutely full of the most amazing eateries. I honestly think we could cater to every palette in the world and every style of dining. I have picked three special venues to highlight, I have eaten in and love them all and they each have their own individual style.
Let’s start with Hotel du Vin at One Devonshire Gardens. A West End institution, they have a special graduation menu running between 19th June and 4th July with both lunch and dinner available. A beautiful venue in the West End with an outside garden for drinks, should the weather allow. And if any of your graduation guests are looking for accommodation – this is the place to give them a stay to remember!
Next up is Caffe Parma. A family run restaurant serving delicious Italian food in a really lovely atmosphere. Caffe Parma will be running a graduation menu, but you can mix and match from their a la carte menu and are not restricted to a set number of courses. And of course there is the option of eating al-fresco on their amazing terrace. Caffe Parma is fantastic for a family celebration and caters for all generations in the loveliest sunshine setting.
And finally comes The Skillet on Hyndland Street. They have a 2 course (£25) and 3 course (£30) set menu, both including a glass of Prosecco on arrival. The food is fantastic, the service excellent and they do a mean cocktail too. What’s not to like with this option! Honestly, we are spoiled for choice.
Of course, for the students themselves there are likely to be more celebrations. And they’ll have their own Graduation ideas in Glasgow. Perhaps a graduation ball or party celebration? Well, Catherine’s of Partick do specialise in occasion wear and this green jump suit is just stunning (opposite). Paired with these earrings (above) from Nancy Smillie – what a fantastic look for an evening celebration.
So, Get Ready Graduates! Get on your glad rags, get your hair done and celebrate your achievements and your success in style. Getting a degree is an outstanding achievement so make it a West End Day to remember. And when the time comes – congratulations from all of us at Westender Magazine and the very best wishes for your future.
For more Graduation ideas in Glasgow visit –
caffeparma.co.uk
catherinesofpartick.co.uk
ellenconlinhair.com
hotelduvin.com/locations/glasgow
jasmineboutique.co.uk
macgregorandmacduff.co.uk
nancysmillieshop.com
rainbowroominternational.com
skillethyndlandst.com
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