Discover thoughtful Mother’s Day gift ideas directly from moms. As this special day approaches, finding a present that truly resonates can be tricky—especially if it’s not a cleaning gadget.
According to a recent survey by the National Retail Federation, spending for Mother’s Day is projected to hit $34.1 billion this year, up from $33.5 billion last year, and just shy of the $35.7 billion record in 2023. “Mother’s Day ranks as a significant holiday for many shoppers, trailing only the winter holidays in average expenditures,” says NRF Vice President Katherine Cullen. “Despite economic challenges, people continue to honor the special women in their lives with gifts and experiences.”
On average, individuals are expected to spend about $259 to celebrate their moms this year. The top gifts include flowers (74%), greeting cards (74%), and dining at her favorite restaurant (61%).
If you're still on the hunt for Mother’s Day gifts, don’t worry; there’s still time. Check out these fantastic ideas that moms themselves recommend.
Experience-Based Gifts
Who really needs more items cluttering their space? Many moms would prefer an experience. Instead of traditional gifts like flowers or jewelry, consider gifting experiences. These can vary from concert tickets to a beach picnic. “We encourage our kids to think about experiences that reflect our interests,” shares a mom. A memorable Mother’s Day present for her was enrolling in photography classes.
Group activities can also foster new traditions and strengthen family bonds. A study from the Journal of Consumer Research found that experience gifts often lead to deeper emotional connections, enhancing relationships over time.
Another mom highlights the beauty of shared experiences: “Every Mother’s Day, we gather at a State Park by Lake Michigan to watch the sunrise with my mom and sister. We bring coffee, muffins, chairs, blankets, and a football for the kids.”
Simple Yet Meaningful Gifts
Looking for a straightforward way to show Mom you care? Swap a traditional card for a heartfelt video message. “As a video editor, I’ve helped clients create video messages for their moms. It’s especially touching when kids record messages together!” shares a reader.
Gifts That Reflect Her Interests
Consider your mom’s hobbies when choosing a gift. If she enjoys reading, a Book of the Month subscription ($59.99 for three months) could be perfect. For gardening enthusiasts, this $28 weeding tool can significantly cut down weeding time.
Pay attention to how she spends her leisure time and offer something that supports her passions. “My son gives me thoughtful running gifts,” shares a mom. “It makes me proud he recognizes my interests, and I hope to inspire him.”
Living Gifts
Opt for a green gift that keeps giving. “I always pick a new flowering plant or bush for my mom’s garden,” shares a reader. “Since I live far away, my dad takes her to choose it at the local nursery.” While most cut flowers last about a week, a flowering bush or houseplant can thrive for years, providing long-lasting value.
Sentimental Gifts
For those moms who seem to have it all, sentimental gifts can be the most cherished. “I found old home movies in the attic—some dating back over 50 years,” recounts a reader. “I had them converted to DVDs, and my mom adored them. Plus, it helped me declutter the attic!” Various services offer conversions starting at around $15 per tape or reel.
