🎓 Gifts for Grads: A Little Aloha to Take with Them

Graduation season is here, and for many Hawai‘i students (or soon-to-be graduates anywhere around the world), it’s not just about tossing the cap—it’s about preparing to say goodbye to their home as they head off to college – whether it be on the mainland or abroad. If the graduate in your life is moving into a dorm or starting a new adventure in a faraway city, help them take a piece of home or send them to a tropical escape with thoughtful, fragrant gifts from Jules & Gem Hawai‘i.

We’ve rounded up our favorite picks for graduation gifts that celebrate the scents of the islands—perfect for keeping Hawai‘i close, no matter how far they roam.

For the Lei-Lover: Puakenikeni Car Freshener

Dorm life doesn't always smell like plumeria or mango from the neighbors' yard, but this will help. Our Puakenikeni Car Freshener (or any of our other Hawai‘i-inspired fragrances!) is perfect for a car, desk drawer, or closet—instantly infusing any space with notes of jasmine, neroli, and soft musk. Think of it as a mini lei they can hang up (forever!). 

🛒 SHOP NOW

For the Confident Guy: Maile Car Freshener

From our Saltwood Hawai‘i collection, our Koa Car Freshener is perfect for his car, desk drawer, or closet too. In Hawaiian culture, the Maile lei represents love, respect, peace, and devotion, and was even worn by royalty–think of it as a mini Maile lei to remind him he's strong and confident all day, everyday.

🛒 SHOP NOW

For the Sweet-Hearted: Lychee Reed Diffuser

Homesickness hits hard, but this diffuser brings sweet island vibes 24/7. With juicy lychee, strawberry, and grape notes, this is a subtle but steady reminder of summers in Hawai‘i and the sweetness of home.

Tip: Replace reed sticks with a fresh new batch every couple of months. The 4 oz reed diffuser lasts four to six months and 8 oz reed diffuser can last eight months to a year to remind them of home all school year long!

🛒 SHOP NOW

For the Bright + Sunny: Mango Coconut Candle

Our mini 2 oz Mango Coconut Candle is made for dorms and first apartments—where space is tight but vibes still matter. This tropical blend of mango, coconut, and mint will transport your grad right back to sunny beach days on the North Shore. 

🛒 SHOP NOW

For the One Who Misses Hugs from the ‘Ohana: Guava Nectar Lotion

A thick, nourishing lotion that feels like a warm embrace? Yes, please. Scented with  our natural signature guava nectar fragrance oil, this one is perfect for self-care moments (and soft skin during harsh mainland winters!).

🛒 SHOP NOW

Not Sure What They’ll Love? Jules + Gem Hawai‘i Gift Card

Let them choose! A gift card gives your grad the freedom to pick their favorite island-inspired products—when they’re ready for a little self-care, dorm refresh, or emotional pick-me-up.

🛒 SHOP NOW 

🎉 Bonus: Send Aloha to the Mainland (or Abroad!) with Care Packages from Hawai‘i

Even when they're already off to college and settled into their freshmen year (and beyond!), send them a gift from Hawai‘i to let them know you're thinking of them and to share a piece of home. Surprise your students with an assortment of fragrant gifts from Hawai‘i – especially during the winter time – from our signature candles to cozy up or room sprays for the dorm bathroom! 

🛒 SHOP ALL