NATASHA WINKLER
Mother’s Day has been around for more than a century—and while flowers, brunch, and heartfelt cards are still tried-and-true classics, there’s always room to mix it up and create something that feels more personal, more memorable, and, honestly, more her.
Whether you’re celebrating your mom, your partner, or someone who’s filled that mother figure role in your life, here are a few simple, heartfelt ways to make this year’s Mother’s Day extra special—without adding stress or breaking the bank.
Start with Something Fresh from the Oven (or the Local Bakery)
If Mom is usually the one baking for everyone else, flip the script this year. Imagine the smell of warm muffins or fresh pastries drifting through the house as she wakes up—it’s a pretty sweet way to start the day.
Not a baker? No shame in letting the pros handle it. Grab a box of her favorite scones, croissants, or donuts from a local bakery the day before and set them out with fresh coffee or tea. It’s about the gesture—and the peaceful, cozy vibe it creates first thing in the morning.
Hit the Road for a Quick Getaway
Sometimes the best way to celebrate Mom is to get her out of the house and into a new headspace. Whether it’s a night away at a lakeside cabin, a road trip to her favorite small-town café, or a spa weekend she didn’t have to plan—changing the scenery can help Mom unwind and truly feel celebrated.
Consider gathering the kids for a surprise weekend together if they are older or out of the house. For many moms, just having everyone in one place is the real gift.
Gift an Experience Instead of Just a Thing
There’s something special about doing something together, especially something she wouldn’t book for herself. Consider a vineyard tour, a local theater performance, or even a sunset sail with brunch and bubbly. (Yes, we’re looking at you, Hold Fast Sailing School in Puerto Vallarta!)
The idea is to create a moment, a memory, something she’ll tell stories about for years to come. These kinds of experiences often mean more than any wrapped gift ever could.
Give Her the Day Completely Off
Here’s a wild idea: don’t let Mom do a single thing on Mother’s Day. From the minute she wakes up to the moment her head hits the pillow, the day is hers. That means meals are planned and prepped, chores are handled, and she gets to spend her time however she wants—reading, painting, napping, or simply enjoying a little quiet.
Even just saying, “You don’t have to do anything today,” can be the most meaningful gift.
At the end of the day, Mother’s Day doesn’t need to be elaborate to be special. It just needs to be thoughtful. Whether it’s a baked treat, a shared adventure, or a rare, responsibility-free day, the goal is to make sure she feels seen, appreciated, and celebrated—for everything she is and everything she does.
Let’s make this one count.
