Sparkling diamonds, extravagant afternoon teas and luxurious vacations — moms deserve all those things and more. But such gifts also come with hefty price tags. Since not everyone can afford spending the cash, we’ve come up with a list of how to celebrate Mother’s Day on a budget. As moms always say, “it’s the thought that counts.”
An inexpensive Mother’s Day celebration doesn’t mean you don’t love your mom. Think of it as practical way of celebrating her day. After all, we live in one of the most expensive cities in the world.
It also allows you to put Mom's advice into practice — remember those “be resourceful and mindful of your spending” speeches?
So, whether you’re just saving money or are a broke Vancouverite, make the most of Mother’s Day on the cheap while still making her feel special.
Afternoon and High tea under $30
Afternoon and/or High Tea is always a go-to on Mother’s Day and being on budget shouldn’t stop you from doing this. La Petite Cuillere offers tea services that range from $13 to $27. They’re located in a quaint spot on Kingsway and Broadway. The space is adorable and the atmosphere is warm and relaxing — perfect for chatting and bonding with mom over warm tea, good food, and your company.
Watch a show
Vancouver is home to a lot of talented people and tons of shows. If your mom loves live performances and/or a good laugh, take her to the first ever Vancouver Opera Festival. The festival is dubbed as “celebration of vocal and theatrical arts.” It offers free events such as Whose Story Is It? Traditional Opera through Modern Eyes to shows with tickets that start at $45, such as The Marriage of Figaro (For more VOF events, click here). You can also laugh with your mom at MOM=WOW (May 14), a one-performance show that will feature a mom-themed unscripted, created on-the-spot show. MOM=WOW tickets are tagged at $25, and it includes a premium glass of wine or a non-alcoholic beverage.
Be a tourist (and act like one!)
Giving your mom a day of your time is probably one of the cheapest and most generous gifts you could offer. Think of the adage “time is gold.” On Mother’s Day, take your mom out on an adventure and explore Vancouver. Walk around Gastown, bike around the seawall, explore Granville Island or sit by the water at English Bay.
And, like tourists who come to our city this time of the year, TAKE TONS OF PHOTOS. After all, time is fleeting and you need something to remember the quality moment that you and your mom shared together. Plan the day — you know you want to.
Take her out for dinner
If you’re in the mood to go old-school, why not take her out for dinner? It’s the quintessential way to celebrate most special occasions. Consider going to Ask for Luigi where you can enjoy items starting at $10, or go for pizza, pasta, and perhaps a gelato at Bella Gelateria. Both of the restaurants are participating in Mother’s Day of Giving, a fundraiser where a portion of the restaurant sales are donated to B.C. Women’s Hospital (For more participating restaurants, click here).
Donate to a charity (bonus points if it’s her favourite)
Remember when mom told you that it’s good to share? Then what better way to honour her than showing her you listened. Make your mama proud by donating to her favourite charity. If you have time, turn it into a bonding activity — how about recycling for a cause? See? Talk about making her proud.
TELL HER YOU LOVE HER (We know you do, you wouldn’t be reading this list if you didn’t, right?)
Jennifer Lopez, in one of her songs, wrote “love don’t cost a thing.” Guess what? She’s right. C’mon, don’t be shy. Hug your mom. Tell her you love her. It’s direct, it’s effective, and ready for this? It’s free.
Whatever you end up doing on Mother’s Day, or before then, remember the point of the celebration. It’s a time dedicated to reflecting on and celebrating the powerful women in our lives — mothers or mother figures. Leonardo DiCaprio said after his Oscar win that his “mother is a walking miracle.” Go ahead and celebrate the “miracle” in your life.
