It’s the time of year for everyone to think about ways to celebrate the special mother in their life. All the ads are encouraging you to go out and spend a ton of money so your mother will know how much you love her. But are there options that will let you share your love without breaking your budget? Of course!
Get her jewelry cleaned: Many people cannot afford to buy something new for that special person in their life. So here’s a great frugal idea — take a piece of jewelry you already own — a ring or necklace — and have it professionally cleaned — for free.
I recently had my ring cleaned and was amazed at how much it sparkled — just like new — and it didn’t even cost a penny. Another time, I had a gold chain cleaned and repaired at B&L Jewelers here in town. The owner, Bob Lounce, did a great job. It looks like a brand new necklace! Most jewelers would love to clean your ring for free. Just ask.
So if your budget doesn’t allow for a brand-new piece of jewelry, start with what you have and make it shine.
Coupon book: What do you give the mother who loves coupons? A coupon book! You can go to the Internet and just do a quick search for Mother’s Day Coupon books and you will get tons of printable ideas. This is a great gift from the kids. It can include coupons for washing the dishes, free hugs or breakfast in bed. http://beautyandbedlam.com/free-mothers-day-coupon-book/
Celebrate by helping: If you don’t have time to make a coupon book, just celebrate by helping out! Most Moms work 24/7 — they are working in the home, outside the home and around the community. Consider celebrating this special day by jumping in and helping do the laundry, loading the dishwasher (but remember to unload it when it’s done), and pick up the toys and junk in the yard.
Download full party decoration printables: You can hop over to Facebook and print an entire collection of things needed to decorate for a Mother’s Day Luncheon, Breakfast or Party. It includes signs, cupcake toppers, menu cards, bag labels and more. https://www.facebook.com/amandaspartiestogo
Buy flowers — but skip the vase: Most women have vases stacked in the closet or garage. If you plan to buy the mother in your life some fresh flowers, save some money by scoping out the storage areas in your home first. You might just find a beautiful vase that needs to be dusted off. Then all you have to buy are the flowers. The precut arrangements that are sold in the stores with the vase will cost more than just the replacement flowers.
For the soon-to-be-new mom: Check out the Motherhood store in the mall. You can sign up for the online Motherhood club and get coupons, samples and more for you and your baby. Newly-pregnant shoppers can indulge in a fabulous free gift bag with their first purchase! (Gift bags available only in U.S. locations and are gifted for the first in-store purchase of each pregnancy. Gift bags available while supplies last. Gift bag contents may vary by geographical location and depending upon advertising participation). http://www.motherhood.com/perkspage.asp
How do you plan to celebrate the special mother in your life? I’d love to hear.
Sharon Williams blogs about saving money in real life at www.reallifedeals.com and how to pursue your hobbies without breaking your budget at www.hobbiesonabudget.com.
