Thrifty Thinking: Easy and Affordable Gift Ideas for Mom

Mother’s Day is this Sunday and if you’re not quite sure what to get mom or how to show her how much she means to you, Jacqueline Whitmore, an internationally-recognized etiquette expert, author and founder of The Protocol School of Palm Beach, offers these nine tips to make your mom feel extra special without spending a fortune:

 

1.       Create a custom gift basket. You know what your mother loves. Think of all the things she’d never buy for herself. Create a goodie basket filled with gourmet coffees, teas and assorted snacks.

 

2.       Gift chore coupons. Create a handmade coupon book for your mom to use when she needs a break. Each voucher is good for a different chore. You could offer to do the dishes, vacuum, take the dog for a walk, wash her car, or make dinner.

 

3.       Call her via Skype. You can still connect even if you aren't able to visit your mom on Mother's Day. Use FaceTime or Skype to get some one-on-one time from far away. She'd love to catch up and see your smiling face.

 

4.       Make it a party. If your mom loves to socialize, throw a Mother’s Day party. Coordinate with friends or neighbors to celebrate their moms too. Your mom will be able to spend time with friends and enjoy her special day.

 

5.       Handwrite a Mother’s Day card. Store-bought cards lack the personalized emotion of a handwritten note. Write a letter to your mom and share picture and a special memory. Let her know how much you care and how much you love her.

 

6.       Make a family photo book. Gather photos of your entire family. If possible, reach out to extended family for their pictures. Then create a photo album or scrapbook filled with memories. Add your favorite quotes or family sayings for a personal touch.

 

7.       Gift personalized jewelry. Instead of generic earrings, have the names of all your mother’s children inscribed on a necklace or pendant. Or, create a charm bracelet. Handpick charms that represent memories from your childhood or your mom’s favorite hobbies. One year my siblings and I gave my mom a ring adorned with five sapphire stones. Each stone represented each of her five children.

 

8.       Make her breakfast. Whip up your favorite recipes and invite the entire family to spend a meal together. If you’re cooking skills are not up to par, host a potluck dinner or brunch or order takeout.

 

9.       Schedule time together. Give your mom the gift of time. Treat her to dinner at a nice restaurant, a cultural event like a ballet or play, or take her to the spa. The activity is less important than spending quality time together to talk and reconnect.