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When spoiling the busy moms in your life for Mothers’ Day, one of the easiest ways to make a big impression, on a not-so-big budget, is to put together a bespoke gift basket. Since you can customize the contents to your gift recipient’s tastes, it will feel more special and thoughtful than more traditional options such as flowers or chocolates. Ideally, the gift basket should offer the busy mom-on-the-go the opportunity to enjoy several fun or relaxing experiences that she might otherwise not make time for. Of course, the other key component is time – the time (and peace and quiet) to enjoy all the goodies in her gift basket. So don’t forget to throw in a “coupon” or two for a kid-free afternoon!
Here are some inexpensive ideas for what you might put in that pampering gift basket:
Nail polish: a cheerfully colourful manicure is a great instant pick-me-up. She might not have time to go to a salon, but painting her nails while watching TV? Fun and doable. Stores like Winners and Marshall’s usually have a selection of salon brand polishes (like OPI, Zoya, and Essie) for under $10. Looking for something cheaper? Check out the European brand Essence (available at Shoppers Drugmart) – their mini polishes are only $1.99.
Movie & snack: chances are, she hasn’t seen a non-Disney movie in a while … at least not in its entirety, or uninterrupted. Treat her to some entertainment by picking up a recent release or a classic that you think she might enjoy. And don’t forget the snacks! Customize your selection to her preferences, or cover both bases with salty & sweet popcorn.
Magazines: give her an opportunity to catch up on her reading – or some celebrity gossip – with one or two of her favourite magazines. Buy them for **% off the cover price at Costco, or pick up 3 for $10 at Walmart (select titles only, but these include the juicy celeb tabloids we all pretend we don’t like to read.)
Candle: help her create the perfect relaxing ambiance with a deluxe candle. Chapters/Indigo carries the Voluspa line, which offers a selection of delicious fragrances and comes in lovely packaging. For less expensive alternatives, check out the Body Shop.
Comfy PJs: of course, your giftee will need something comfortable to lounge in while enjoying her pampering basket. Check out the popular Gilligan & O’Malley PJs at Target, like this 100% cotton floral set or this cute modal knit one (both under $25). Joe Fresh also offers a wide selection of mix-and-match lounge wear and PJ sets (like this floral sateen set, or this cropped pant set).
Fun and Funky Jewelry: last but not least, surprise her with a little bit of sparkle. A fun statement necklace can liven up a busy mom’s daily T-shirt-and-jeans uniform, making it perfect for a night out or dinner date. J. Crew Factory has a ton of cute options, including this crystal pinwheel necklace (currently $45, but watch for frequent sales) and this pastel bib necklace (also $45). For even more inexpensive options, check out Forever 21; both this trendy floral necklace and this rhinestone necklace are under $16, a fraction of similar designer pieces.
To put your basket together, start with a pretty decorative gift box
