Of all the people we have to buy birthday presents for, mums are often cited as some of the trickiest. ‘It’s fine, I have everything I want!’, ‘Ooh, I’ll have a think and get back to you’ and ‘Honestly, I’m happy with a card!’ are phrases that haunt us every year while we trawl through rails of cardigans, buckets of bouquets and divinely scented chocolate shops for the perfect gift. If you’ve exhausted all other options, fear not, because we have some inspiration for you.
What do you get the woman who has everything? We think that ‘experience gifts’ are some of the best, and what mother doesn’t appreciate a bit of time to herself to unwind? A spa break can be the perfect way to give her the rest she deserves, and she can get herself pampered and preened with massages, manicures, body treatments and a little dip in the pool, all with a chilled glass of champagne to hand.
In a similar vein, taking your mum for afternoon tea is perfect if she’s a sophisticated lady who is into her food. Treat her to a tower of tempting nibbles, including sandwiches, cakes, pastries and scones for a truly opulent afternoon, all washed down with lots of interesting tea blends and even more champagne. Lots of voucher websites offer deals on afternoon tea at luxury hotels, so you can really spoil her even on a budget.
If neither of you can find a suitable day to do something, a cheap but much appreciated gift is a photo book. You can create these on a range of simple programs online and see your digital images transformed into a sleek book which can be treasured forever. Include holiday snaps, photos of the children and pets and pictures from family gatherings to give her a lasting record of all of these happy memories.
If it’s going to be a milestone birthday, you could always discuss the idea of a weekend away with the rest of the family. It’s a great excuse for a little break, and it will make your mum feel really spoilt and special having the whole family around to celebrate her big day. This could be an overnight trip to a city she loves or even a surprise jaunt abroad for a couple of days in the sun.
Whatever you choose to do, don’t listen when she tells you not to worry. She’s your mum, and she will be delighted with whatever you choose! Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a birthday cake to bake...
Claire Temple is a mother who enjoys being spoiled and offers her advice tot hose who may need gift buying inspiration!
