10 Unique Ideas to Make Mother’s Day Extra Special

Celebrating motherhood has been a thing for over 1,000 years, going as far back as the ancient Greeks and Romans. The modern-day American version began in the early 1900s when Anna Jarvis pushed to make Mother's Day a recognized holiday. While the U.S. Congress rejected her proposal in 1908, by 1911, it caught on nationwide. In 1914, Woodrow Wilson signed a proclamation declaring the second Sunday in May as Mother's Day.

At Under the Weather®, we love this holiday because we love moms. Don't get us wrong, traditions like Mother's Day brunch are lovely, but if you think it's time for a refresh, here are 10 cool ideas to make mom's day extra special.

1. Warm Mom's Heart, Fingers, and Toes

From the countless hours spent hauling mini-athletes and sports gear to and from games to braving cold weather, let's face it, mom is her kid's most devoted cheerleader. Return the favor with a cozy Mother's Day Gift Pack of a colorful pop-up WeatherPod® tent and polka-dot swirl roof cover—guaranteed to make cold days warmer, hot days bearable, and passing showers a non-issue. Add custom lettering for a more personal touch, or throw in a UTW neck gaiter to round things out.

2. Get Crafty

(Photo credit: Gustavo Fring)

If your mom loves to craft, spend the day, just the two of you, doing her favorite thing. It's a fun way to connect and let her show off for a change. Include her in your favorite hobby, or sign up for a class where you can spend a few hours learning something new together. You'll come away with a memento and lots of memories.

3. Plant Something

(Photo credit: Antonio Shkraba)

Sure, flower arrangements are nice. But planting or rearranging mom's garden will make Mother's Day even more memorable with fragrant flowers and shrubs that will blossom season after season. It's a reminder of a special time spent together that could become an annual tradition.

4. Give a Photo Book Instead of a Card

(Photo credit: Shutterfly)

Celebrate special moments or curate mom's favorite pics in a personalized photo book. There are many creative online platforms with themes and customizable templates you can use to design a one-of-a-kind hardbound book just for her. Or keep it evergreen by uploading digital photos to a smart-screen frame. Many of the latest digital frames allow you to add or swap out images to keep things fresh and delightfully surprising.

5. Throw a Garden Party

(Photo credit: Ron Lach)

Whether mom has a favorite green spot or you need to tap a local park, Spring is the best time to celebrate outdoors. There are plenty of green spaces nearby for sharing a lovely picnic or hosting an afternoon tea. Invite a few of her friends or family she hasn't seen in a while to make it that much more memorable!

6. Spa Day, Anyone?

(Photo credit: Rodnae Productions)

A trip to the spa is relaxing. So is treating her to some delightfully luxe spa gifts so she can enjoy a little relaxation time on her own, whenever she wants. For the best DIY spa kit, remember to touch on all the senses, such as mood music, or treats that smell, feel, and taste good.

7. Glam It Up with a Photoshoot

(Photo credit: Amar Preciado)

Treat mom like the superstar she is with her very own photoshoot. Depending on your budget, you can hire a professional or ask a talented friend or relative to do it. Make a day of it with makeup, hair styling, wardrobe, and location that match mom's personality and style. Don't forget to include snacks and refreshments to keep the mood fun and light.

8. Book a Mom-Venture

(Photo credit: John Willink)

Adventure awaits whether mom is active, venturesome, a culture buff, or a homebody. You can keep it closer to home or plan a trip, whichever she'll enjoy most. Consider experiences on her bucket list or ones she won't splurge on for herself, and you can't go wrong. Then surprise her the day of or give her a range of options she can choose from in advance—then book it. She'll love you for it.

9. Take Flight

(Photo credit: Pixabay)

Just because the kids can keep mom running 24/7, don't assume she isn't up for a little excitement. Consider a helicopter tour, balloon ride, or zip-line excursion. Seeing the neighborhood, city, or local surroundings from up in the air is a rare and enthralling experience. It's even more fun doing it as a family and watching her have the thrill of a lifetime.

10. Be a Tourist in Mom's Life

(Photo credit: Tim Mossholder)

Think you know everything about Mom? Think again. Take the day to celebrate her life, including the one before you came along. If you're still near her hometown, go for a walk or drive and have her show you where she grew up, went to school, and what she did for fun. Have her share stories that make those moments come to life for you both. Grab the family albums and spend time reminiscing, start a family tree, or ancestry-search together. Besides connecting in ways you never imagined, learning your family history helps you embrace your culture and traditions.

But the best gift of all is making time, just for her. Stop by to catch up. Call to say 'Hi.' Make spending time together a routine. These simple gestures are a small payment for all she does and lets her know she's still appreciated and a treasured part of your life.