Mother’s Day often feels steeped in memories. We think of the women in our lives who helped nurture us into who we are today. We also think of moments that are happy, sad, bittersweet, and joyful. Some of the most meaningful gifts you can give to the mother in your life this year draw on these memories, whether they’re custom-made or sentimental items that you’ve had for years.
“I think what every mother is looking for on Mother’s Day is a connection,” says Audrey Gruss, founder of Hope Fragrances and the Hope for Depression Research Foundation, “a connection to the ones she loves.” A mother reaches out to her children to get the assurance that all is well. That virtual hug or embrace conveyed through a simple phone call or facetime is all that she truly desires. “I think that’s what it’s all about—connecting with the ones you love.”
Worth a thousand words
One of the best ways to make a connection is with pictures, specifically digital photos. Pre-loaded with dozens of photos from your smartphone album, they make a functional collage of joyful events. If you want to take your photo gifts a step further, you can get the whole family involved in recreating famous images or notorious childhood photos, honoring your mother’s sense of humor. With many families still self-isolating, a home video greeting can add a personal touch to any gift—you can even record yourself singing one of your mother’s favorite songs or recreating a famous movie scene.
A-Tisket, A-Tasket
Photos aren’t the only way to share memories and show your love on Mother’s Day. This year is especially profound for some of us who are separated from our mothers or maternal figures, prompting more creative ways to show them we care.
Did you ever make a shadowbox as a kid? Today, there are much more sophisticated kits and services for creating shadow boxes, enabling you to take something precious from your childhood and commemorate it decoratively. Baby shoes, a favorite toy or trinket, or a childhood drawing are all great candidates for shadow boxes. If you’re a new mother, you can also imprint your baby’s hands or feet and secure the mold in a shadowbox as a keepsake for Grandma.
One of a kind
Nothing in the Mother’s Day rulebook says you have to source everything from your own belongings—purchasing a piece of original artwork can be a meaningful expression of love and appreciation. Perhaps a local artist can paint your childhood home from a picture, or takes exquisite photos of a favorite destination you and your mom share. Websites that allow artisans and makers to sell their own creations are bursting with creative ideas, from vintage maps and constellation charts to hand-painted keepsakes and personalized family trees.
The most important thing you can do this Mother’s Day is to make a connection. Whether it’s with your own mother, grandmother, or other maternal figures in your life, it is a time to reach out to the people you love and celebrate their presence in your life.
