Now that it's May, you're probably starting to think about how you'll be celebrating mom this Mother's Day. While you can't put a price on your love for your mother, you more than likely will end up spending at least a little to celebrate her. According to an NRF survey, Americans spent an average of $220.48 on celebration plans and gifts for the holiday in 2021, so it's easy to see how many people fall into expensive habits to try to make the day special. However, there are many ways you can make mom feel loved and remain budget friendly.
Cook at Home
Every year, people flock to restaurants on Mother's Day to treat mom to a nice meal. A more cost-effective way to share her favorite meal is by making it for her. Depending on what mom wants to eat, this could lead to some massive savings. In addition, the family can gather together without dealing with crowded restaurants and enjoy spending time together without being in a time crunch. And, you'll have the priceless result of creating new, cherished memories.
Keep it Simple
While your instinct is most likely to try and get big expensive Mother's Day gifts to show just how much you love her, it isn't necessary. There are many simpler, and more cost-effective options that can still bring a smile to mom's face. Business Insider's gift guide detailed a number of affordable options for mom that are practical as well as thoughtful. Some examples include items you can easily put together yourself in the style of a "care package," such as a gardening kit (seed packets, tools, gloves); a tea infuser and some samples of a variety of loose tea; or a homemade photo album with some of mom's favorite family memories.
Look for Deals
If your heart is set on taking mom out for a nice meal, be sure to keep your eye out for deals. A number of restaurants run big promotions on the holiday. This article from Philly Bite details a number of brunch and dinner deals that are sure to delight. Even if you're planning to cook the main meal at home, check grocery stores for sales on ingredients, and look into local bakeries for deals on desserts — a sweet treat at the end of the day is always a nice touch. You can also look for deals on gifts, or components of gifts for some of the "care packages" we mentioned above, at local small businesses. For example, if mom's first love is gardening, look into a local nursery to see if they're having any sales, or offering a discount on a weekend class you could sign her up for.
These ideas, combined with a little creativity, can help you show mom just how much you love her, without putting unnecessary stress on your finances.
Erin Ellis
Accredited Financial Counselor ®
Philadelphia Federal Credit Union
eellis@PFCU.COM