If you're struggling to find a thoughtful Mother's Day present for Mum, consider thinking outside the realm of material gifts.
"Experiential gifts evoke more intense emotions than material gifts," says marketing expert Cindy Chan. Plus, when you plan something you can enjoy together, you'll create shared memories, which creates a greater sentiment for the gift, she says.
But here's the big question: What type of activity should you plan? While it may seem obvious, it should be an experience you think your mum will enjoy—not something that you've been trying to convince her to try for years (like that drawing class). Several studies have found that people's favorite gifts are—no shock here—the ones that they actually want.
Here are a few gift ideas that you and your mum are sure to love.
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Go to a wine tasting.
Wineries make an ideal backdrop for an afternoon of mother-daughter bonding.If you live near a vineyard, pack a picnic lunch and check out the local grapes. Or look for restaurants or wine bars that host wine tastings. Really want to splurge? Buy a pair of tickets and head to the Barossa Valley to check out the famous wineries.
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Spend a day at the spa.
If your mum loves her R&R—and seriously, have you ever met a mother who couldn't use some pampering?—book her a massage and then join her for a manicure. On a budget? Pick up supplies for a luxe mani/pedi at home. Paired with a nice bottle of wine and some of her favorite snacks, the experience will feel thoughtful and special.
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Gain some altitude.
Look up a trail she's never hiked before and organise an adventure. Map your route and find a nearby restaurant where you can refuel afterward. A new water bottle or a cute new hiking outfit are some fun extras to consider.
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Learn to dice, blanch, and sauté.
If your mum's obsessed with cooking shows and pours over cookbooks for fun, she'll love taking a cooking class with you. Choose one where she'll learn a new skill to add to her repertoire or one that focuses on a particular course or ingredient she can't get enough of.
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Book a yoga retreat.
Yoga workshops or weekend retreats make the perfect gift for mums who never miss a vinyasa class. If she's more into biking or resistance training, there are retreats for those types of activities, too.
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Try a pottery class.
Is Mum the ultimate crafter? Find a class where she can learn something new—or practice a skill she loves. From stained glass and painting to pottery and calligraphy, there is something for every art lover.
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Find tickets to a show or concert.
If you know your mother's favorite song—or know what CD has been in her car since forever—look for tickets for her to hear the music live. Think of all the points you'll get for sitting through a John Farnham concert with a smile on your face.
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