If you asked any mom what she wants for Mother’s Day, she’d probably answer with the word “time.” Time for herself, time spent with the ones she loves, or simply time doing nothing. While extravagant gifts are always exciting and appreciated, it’s those simple, heartfelt gestures that leave a lasting impression.

Whether you’re looking for ways to celebrate your mom in a meaningful way or are a mom yourself needing fresh ideas separate from “mom life,” let us give you a few options that feel personalized, sincere and memorable.

Restful Recommendations

•Let Mom sleep in {no alarms!}, breakfast made, and the morning to read, journal, or binge-watch her favorite series.

•Create a To-Do List of housework that Mom can fill out and you’ll complete, giving her a break from daily responsibilities. 

•Put together a self-care gift basket of at-home pampering essentials such as a brightening facial mask, soaking bath salts, lavender candle, pedicure kit, cozy socks, scalp massager and fuzzy blanket. A spa gift card is great too, but is only a one-time use where as many of these items can continue to be enjoyed!

Family Focused

•Cook or bake your mom’s favorite recipe together and ask her to tell you the story of why she loves to serve it.

•Gather the whole family for lunch or dinner together and each person tells a funny or memorable story about Mom.

•A picnic in the park followed by card games around the table or yard games if you’re feeling competitive. 

Out and About

•Go for a relaxing hike.

•Go ride horses together.

•Take a short day drive back to Mom’s hometown or somewhere that is special to her.

•Take mom for a “girls day out,” starting with brunch, then shopping, a stop at a museum or local attraction and then a movie.

Simple Gestures

•Go to a pottery or art studio and handmake something special she can display in her home.

•Pull out old photos and put together a small scrapbook, telling stories about each image along the way.

•Handwrite 30 short, uplifting messages that your mom can look at each day for a month that express your love and gratitude.

**And don’t forget to take pictures and capture the moment!