MAIN Holidays Mother's Day Mother's Day Gift Ideas

Treating mom like royalty this Mother's Day?

Take the time to consider Mother's Day gifts that reflect how much you love and cherish her. Of course, each mom is unique - but so are the gift choices you can make!

For help on deciding, here are only a few options to consider when honoring mom on her special day:

Mother's Day flowers, naturally

Search for online flower shops or make your way to your favorite neighborhood florist for a beautiful bouquet or a decorative houseplant. PRO TIP: In large cities, also look for fresh flowers at local grocers or supermarkets for even more affordable prices on Mother's Day roses (even long stem), tulips, and carnations.

When dealing directly at a local florist, be sure to look for firm, fresh leaves and tight buds for longer-lasting floral bouquets which will give mom more time for bragging rights -- while you score points for your thoughtfulness!

Roses are always a classic, as are traditional Mother's Day carnations. In many parts of the country, gerbera daisies are also catching on as a traditional favorite for Mother's Day. Find out what your florist recommends, and be sure to ask about delivery charges, which tend to run higher on a busy Mother's Day weekend than on a typical weekday before. PRO TIP: Order early.

For more information, also check out related resources on the topic in our guide to buying flowers for Mother's Day. including etiquette and traditions especially associated with Mother's Day gift giving.

Hit the spa

What could be better than the promise of professional pampering at a local day spa as a special gift to mom?

If you're not familiar with one, ask neighbors or co-workers for their suggestions, or log on to search for online reviews of spas in her area.

When making your reservation, ask about by-the-hour or all day sessions or treatments you think mom will enjoy most -- including facials, mud baths, massages, and more. Or, purchase a gift certificate so mom can choose her own "therapy".

Also be sure to ask about special offers or packages like champagne brunches, mother-daughter sessions, or a couples' massage (so she can bring Dad along!)

Gifts just for her

Of course you know your mom best, so when thinking about the perfect gift, give special thought to her personal hobbies and interests. If she has an interest in gardening, there's no better time than May to present her with a new book on the topic or gardening supplies you know she needs (also see gifts ideas for gourmet cooks or gifts for the health conscious for additional ideas.)

What's their favorite? Statistically, perfume and cosmetics are the most popular Mother's Day gift in the US.

also see -> Mothers Day Fun Facts

If funds are limited, also consider arranging with other family members to chip in for a group gift that you could not otherwise afford separately. PRO TIP: Spring clothes also go on sale in May as retailers clear clothing racks for summer fashions.

Pearls and other jewelry are always appreciated, or how about going all out by booking reservations for a top travel destination she's always dreamt about?

Party, party, party!

Mother's day party ideas can vary from a simple brunch to a backyard garden party. Just be sure to give enough lead time for your guests with details on where and when - especially for larger family gatherings. Then, plan on traditional Mother's Day menu, or why not serve up mom's favorite foods in her honor?

If there's little time to plan and arrange a party yourself, check out local restaurants which traditionally feature special offers and menus for families on Mother's Day. Make certain to book early, or try searching online. Better yet? Look to see if you favorite restaurant participates in Open Table Reservations for booking your party at US restaurants coast to coast.

With a little planning, you'll make this the best Mother's Day ever ... with a gift for mom that she will always remember.

Have fun!

More about choosing Mother's Day gifts around the Web:

Top 10 tips for buying Mother's Day gifts - An entire list of ideas for gifts to buy including gift baskets, electronics, books - what to avoid (like kitchen appliances!)

Mother's Day Gift Ideas: 10 Great Ways to Spoil Her - More great tips including an outdoor picnic, gifts for the crafty mom, travel suggestions, and more.