Original gifts for Mother's Day

This year, let your creative juices flow with these affordable and thoughtful gift ideas for Mother's Day.

Because most parents have everything they need, it can be a bit of a challenge to find the perfect Mother's Day gift.

Getting your mom a gift that she wants is no easy task, but these unique ideas offer the perfect way to show your mom you care.

If you don't live near your mom and are unable to see her on Mother's Day, consider making her a care package full of her favourite things.

• The items inside don't have to be extravagant or expensive, but they should show how much you care.
• Think of things like your mom's favourite chocolate, hand cream, imported tea or lipstick, and include them in the package. Every time she uses something from the package she will think of you, as well as your knack for remembering her favourites.

Nothing is more precious to a parent than the lasting memory of a moment spent together.

• When creating this unique gift, spend time combing through old pictures to find one that is special to her. A picture of you and your mom, or your mom and her grandkids, while on a vacation, at a graduation or during a holiday gathering all make for great ideas.
• When choosing a frame, be sure to consider the quality and colour of the wood, as well.
• More than likely, your mom will put the photo in a room where she spends a lot of time, so being aware of the photo's new home will show how much you care about its permanence.
• Consequently, it is important to choose a frame that matches with the room's decor.

If you live nearby, reward your mom for all of her hard work by waking up early on Mother's Day to prepare her favourite breakfast meal.

Nothing is better than waking up to the delicious smell of bacon, pancakes or waffles, and your mom is sure to appreciate your hard work. If necessary, enlist your dad's help in the preparation.

• An alternative idea includes cooking a special dinner instead.

Writing a letter from the heart is one of the most thoughtful and caring gifts you can give a mother.

• Before writing, outline your letter by deciding exactly what you want to say to avoid making mistakes.
• Talk about what makes your mom special and why she is such an important figure in your life.

From making dinner to doing the laundry, your mom works exceptionally hard to keep the house in order, whether her work goes noticed or not.

• Lighten her load by offering to do a set number of chores one day a week for two months.
• Just the simple gesture of folding the laundry, cleaning her car or vacuuming the house will be enough to make your mom smile.
• Consider getting the grandkids to help, too.