The Obtainer - 4/30/25, Wednesday

Valet.
The Obtainer

Wednesday,
April 30th Edition

Presented by

Presented by

Cory Ohlendorf

Stumped on what to get your grad? Don’t worry, we’ve got some thoughts.

- Cory Ohlendorf, Editor in Chief ⋯ @coryohlendorf

 

The Best Gifts for Newly-Minted Grads

Whether he’s stepping off campus into the real world or trading lectures for a full-time grind, graduating is a big deal. It deserves more than a half-hearted card and a handshake. A proper gift not only marks the milestone—it sets the tone for what's next. From elevated essentials to heirloom-worthy pieces, we've rounded up gifts that say “you've got this” with equal parts class and cool. Think of it as a starter kit for the next chapter.

Our Picks

A book makes for an inspiring gift (and provides a spot to stash a gift card or cash).

“No Idea Is Final”,
$34.95 by Phaeton

 

Maybe he’s moving to a new city or wants to commemorate his college town.

Custom-etched rocks glass,
$34.95 by Riedel

 

No more late classes. This alarm clock soothes you to sleep and wakes you up with ease.

Alarm clock,
$169.99 by Loftie

 

As he moves into the real world, help him pack like a boss in a well-made aluminum roller.

Aluminum carry-on,
$665 by Monos

 

Give them a handsome, grown-up place to jot down ideas IRL.

Leather bound notebook,
$60 / $51 by Papier

 

Part of being an adult is having a nice pair of quality leather shoes.

Plain toe blucher,
$360 by Morjas

 

Partner

A Sentimental,
Unforgettable Gift

Celebrate the woman who raised you with something truly personal and meaningful this Mother's Day. Little Words Project offers customizable bracelets that let you share a special message or nickname she'll treasure forever. Choose from heartfelt words, elegant beads and personal touches to create a gift as unique as she is. Don't miss their Spring Sale from April 25 to 28 where you can enjoy 25% off and free shipping sitewide. Place your order by May 2 to make sure it arrives in time.

 
 
 
 

Mama gift set, $65 / $50

 
 

Custom pearl bracelet,
from $175

 

The perfect
Mother's Day gift set
,
$140 / $105

 

Affirmations gift set,
$75 / $60

 

Gold vermeil tennis bracelet,
$150

Smart Buys

The sales and discounts our team is currently watching.

 

Kiehl's is currently offering 25% off some of their best-sellers. So use the discount to pick up this lightweight sunscreen serum with collagen peptide that protects against sun damage while easing fine lines.

$45 / $33.75
by Kiehl's

 

Looking for a low-profile sneaker for summer? This retro style from Gola is cut from a lightweight, breathable canvas and finished with a padded footbed that provides all-day comfort.

$70 / $56
by Gola

 

Swiss designer Yves Béhar designed this ventilated, comfortable office chair. A “Harmonic Tilt” supports the way you naturally move for a smooth and balanced recline. And now it's 20% off.

$785 / $588
by Herman Miller

 

Want more?
See all 29 sales »

Worth a Read

The best stories from around the web.

 

The brand was also one of many watch companies that fell victim to the quartz crisis and lingered largely in obscurity for decades.”

 

A Classic Budget Alternative to the Royal Oak Is Now Even More Versatile

 

//

 
Gear Patrol
 

The biggest lesson we learned was the importance of refinement … perfection is achieved incrementally, and you can’t rush it.”

 

How Buck Mason Became America’s Next Great Everyman Brand

 

//

 
GQ
 

Where else can one experience the full gamut of human depravity—from farting on the treadmill to taking conference calls on the cross trainer?”

 

The New Rules of Gym Etiquette

 

//

 
The Guardian