Unique and affordable Mother's Day gifts

Let’s face it, moms are vastly underappreciated given the hard work they do day-in and day-out. And, although moms deserve far more than one day of gratitude (she should actually be earning six figures!), Mother’s Day is a perfect time to go out of your way to show mom how much you appreciate all she does.

Don’t wait until the last minute to find the perfect gift (mom will know – trust me!). Make mom proud by checking out these great frugal gift ideas that will help show your love while maintaining your budget!

  • Make something from the heart. Pinterest is a great resource for finding easy, do-it-yourself craft ideas that mom is sure to love. Check out this sweet – and simple – mother’s day craft that’s perfect for kids: 

      1. Trace your (or your child’s) hand, and cut out two copies.
      2. Cut out a strip of paper or cardboard and fold it like an accordion. Use a marker, rub-on letters or stickers to add the words “I Love You” on the outside, and “this much” on the accordion-style strip connecting the hands.
      3. Glue each end of the strip to one of the insides of the hands, and your card is ready
  • Find a unique deal. If you’re not particularly crafty, I discovered some great Mother’s Day deals on Living Social. One of my favorite websites for discovering unique gifts for all occasions is Red Envelope. And although some of the items can be a bit pricey, Living Social has a deal that offers you $40 at Red Envelope for only $20. For example, they are featuring this modern, yet simple, necklace any mom would love. You can personalize it with your birthstone and name so mom will always have you close to her heart! It runs about $49.95, but with the Living Social deal, the price would drop to just $9.95. Now that’s my kind of deal!
  • Give the gift of fashion. Does your mom have a passion for fashion? If the matriarch of your family loves designer duds, but hates the exorbitant price tags, websites like Last Call by Neiman Marcus or Rue La La offer great designer clothes at bargain basement prices. If you’re not sure what her closet is lacking, Living Social comes to the rescue once again with $50 to spend at LastCall.com by Neiman Marcus for just $25. What mom wouldn’t love a frugal shopping spree?
  • Personalize a gift certificate. If there’s one gift you could give mom that is priceless, it’s the gift of your time. A personalized gift certificate is a great way to show mom you care. You could offer her ten free back rubs, or breakfast in bed at her request. The possibilities are endless. And best of all? It’s completely free!

Do you have any creative, budget-friendly ideas for Mother’s Day? Comment on this post to share!

Jessica Horton is a former copywriter and community manager at MMI.

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