Moms are amazing! They earn these crazy merit badges like chasing an unruly toddler while wearing a baby, or navigating fiery teenage attitudes with grace. How on earth do you really say “thank you” for the nonstop service, love, time, attention, and energy?!? There might be a card for that. But, moms don’t want a Hallmark card.
I asked my favorite “less is more” bunch of moms how to celebrate Mother’s Day for a minimalist mom. Below is what moms really want for Mother’s Day this year. You may notice that a few of the options are contradictory. You know the mom in your life best, so pick a couple that best suit your favorite mother, and make it special!
The fact is, more than anything, most moms want someone to say “I see you. I want to spend quality time with you. And by the way, let me take some of your workload for the day, or leave you alone in peace for a while.”
It really is that simple. Here is the exhaustive list on how you can do just that:
#1 Flowers.
Yes. It really is that easy. Flowers are beautiful and they don’t have to be stored forever.
#2 Meals.
Let’s get this out of the way: Mom doesn’t want to make dinner on her special day. Bonus points if she doesn’t have to feed anyone all day long!
#3 Chocolate.
I mean, really. Did I have to tell you that? Get the good stuff, and get plenty.
#4 Mimosas or wine.
Or both.
#5 Cleaning.
It doesn’t matter who does it, but mom wants her home and/or vehicle cleaned for her. Roll up your sleeves, or pick up the phone, and make it happen, pretty please.
#6 More of a great thing.
If she has a charm bracelet, pick out a great charm. If she collects something, add to her collection. If she loves something consumable like a perfume, buy some more of it.
#7 A peaceful day.
OK. I admit, this may be a tall order, but do your best. No bickering. No yelling. Maybe? Just for a day?
#8 Pampering.
If your mom is one who used to pamper herself pre-children, or enjoys being pampered every once in a while, then consider supporting the habit. Think: hair, nails, massage…
#9 Leave.
I’m not kidding. Take the kids and leave. Sometimes mom just wants to enjoy a quiet house for a few hours… or more.
#10 Complete a project.
You know that thing she’s been asking you to do for a while now? Mother’s Day is a great day to show her that you heard her, and her desires matter. Translation: work on her wish list, and preferably, finish it.
#11 Hugs & snuggles.
Moms take their pay in hugs and snuggles. Pay up!
#12 Alone time.
Send mom to a coffee shop with some cash and a great book. Tell her she doesn’t have to come home until she feels like it. Bonus points if you get her a hotel room for the night, just for her! If all you can muster is getting her a walk around the neighborhood by herself, then do it!
#13 Plants.
Pick out some perennials or annuals as a great Mother’s Day gift.
#14 Coffee.
Nothing says “I see how much you do for us,” like a stash of coffee. If you know she has a favorite take-out option, make sure you get it on Mother’s Day.
#15 Romance.
Dad, Mom wants a date, a sunset, a foot rub, a weekend getaway… or something along those lines. Candles highly recommended. New underwear is practical and appropriate for many.
#16 Family time.
Picnics, camping, time outside, an outing, relaxing by a body of water… and any fun times are high on mom’s “how to celebrate Mother’s Day” list.
#17 An upgrade.
A roomba instead of a manual vacuum; new luxurious sheets or towels; the gourmet pots she’s been eyeing… basically anything that is an upgrade from her current model that will make life easier or more pleasant. Just be sure to get the old version out of the house ;).
#18 Books.
Consider a subscription to Kindle Unlimited, Audible, or a specific book that mom has been wanting. Then, see #9 and #12.
#19 A great nap.
Mom wants a nap. In fact, just let her sleep. All day. Without kids in the bed. Do not disturb.
#20 Cute homemade gifts.
Moms really do like it when children make cute crafts or coupon books. But, if she’s homeschooling the kids, Dad may have to take the reins and supervise craft time.
#21 Father’s Day.
Seriously. Mom wants to be in charge of zero decisions. She wants to come and go as she pleases and get all the good things. Let her just kick-back and do nothing. You make all the as-relaxing-as-possible plans.
#22 Simple things.
One mom said it best: “Appreciation. Connection.” Another said: “To drink my tea before it gets cold.” In reality, Mom just wants to enjoy the simple things in life, and to know that her family enjoys her. It really is that simple.
>>You might also like to read about the easiest self-care options for a busy mom. Why not surprise your favorite woman with a basket of goodies just for her!
Tell us your wish list on how to celebrate Mother’s Day this year! What do minimalist moms really want for Mother’s Day? Leave a comment below.
I am wishing you all the simple things this Mother’s Day, and always,
Zara
PS- Mom, I’d love to help you simplify your space with 10 quick, high-impact ideas that will instantly reduce the clutter. You can grab your FREE Space-Simplifying Quick-Guide right here.
PPS – Are you a busy homeschooling mom who believes less really is more? Join us in the Minimalist Homeschooling Community on facebook where you can chat with like-minded moms 24/7.
This. You got all the things right. Thank you!
I hope you have an amazing Mother’s Day, Beka! 😁