Mother’s Day 2023 Ideas: Five Ways to Celebrate

Cheryl Lacey Donovan beautifully captures the core of motherhood when she writes, “Mother is a verb. It’s something you do. Not just who you are.” Our social media feeds are already brimming with Mother’s Day 2023 ideas, chock full of links to sites that can deliver gifts within days or overnight. While I personally love all things pearls, shiny and pretty, I also realize there are better ways to celebrate our mothers that don’t require spending a lot of cash.

Perhaps you’re looking for another way to express your gratitude this year. It is my hope that the thoughts I’m sharing below will bring about a wave of inspiration as you shower the mothers in your life with love, appreciation and gratitude. As you think of who you would like to honor, remember, Mother’s Day is for those you cherish, and it could be anyone from your mom to someone who has touched your heart with a mother’s love.

Here are five ways to honor your mom this Mother’s Day—no gift box required. I think all moms can agree that what we want most this year, and always, is to spend time together.

Mother’s Day 2023 Ideas: Five Ways to Celebrate

Outdoor Beauty

Let mom know to dress for an outdoor stroll or a scenic (and doable) hike. She can look forward to a delicious picnic of her favorite foods when you reach your destination. Look in your cabinet and refrigerator; I assure you that there is something you can whip up for mom that she will appreciate and enjoy. Bring snacks and add fresh fruits to her water bottle, and don’t forget to snap a photo in front of the waterfall. Placed in a pretty frame, she will always remember the adventurous outing.

Shoulder to Shoulder

What is cozier than staying in to watch her favorite shows? Not just one or two, but an entire afternoon of the Gilmore Girls or the Golden Girls filled with popcorn and laughter. To keep her off her feet, ask her what she’d like you to bring or prepare for a meal.

“Pretty as a Picture”

Take a walk down memory lane. Pull out the tub of old photographs and go through them reminiscing about years past. Help mom organize them and put everything in chronological order. Decorate some old shoe boxes with wrapping paper and put them in the pretty decorated box. She can go back and enjoy them, and remember the new memories you made together. Offer to have a few of her favorite photos enlarged and framed to admire all year long.

Baked with Love

Whip up a batch of muffins, and deliver them to your favorite motherly figures. A great aunt, a neighbor, or even a dear friend who has meant something to you and helped you through your own struggles. If you know someone who has recently lost their mom, make a call or a handmade card and hand-deliver it.

A Latte Love (or Tea for Two!)

Share a cup of coffee and a chocolate croissant with her, uninterrupted. Or, if she swoons over the perfect tea blend and a sweet or savory treat, a Mother’s Day tea may be on the menu! Ask her to update you on her life and if she’d like to hear you share a favorite childhood memory. One story may lead to another, and as you wrap up your date, your hearts will be full.

How will you be honoring the women in your life on May 14? Share your ideas with us on Instagram or Facebook.

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