She changed your nappies, fed you, clothed you, and for years spent way more time on you than she did on herself. She’s your chauffer, a shoulder to cry on, an advice giver, a nurse, a housekeeper, and world’s best sounding board. Given that job description, your mom probably deserves some more thought on gifts for Mothers Day than a last-minute run to the store for a card and flowers.

Not that the day is ignored… by any means. Mother’s Day ranks just behind Christmas and Easter as the third most popular holiday in the world. It is the peak day of the year for long distance phone calls, the second largest for gift giving, and the busiest day of the year for many restaurants. Nearly 80% of us will buy a Mother’s Day card this year. She’ll smile if you give her chocolate, but what else can you do to show Mom you appreciate all she does? Sort through our list of creative gifts for Mothers Day ideas and see if any inspire you!

Gifts for Mothers' Day - Take any piece of work you’ve done—a drawing, a photograph, a poem, a painting—and go to the frame store to have it matted and framed. No matter how old you are, mums love the gifts their children make for them.

Gifts for Mothers Day - What does your mum do for fun? Does she play a sport or knit? Read or bake? Create a gift basket using her hobby as the theme. For example, if she plays tennis, give her a new water bottle, a book on new techniques, a pair of socks, and new underwear.

Gifts for Mothers Day - Buy a blank diary. On each page write a message of thanks for something your mom has done/instilled/supported through the years. (Thank you for teaching me the value of hard work…Thank you for always believing in me.) Include a note instructing mom to reread the book often to remind her how much she is loved and appreciated.

Gifts for Mothers Day - Personalise an apron or a tote bag using fabric paint or iron-on transfers from your inkjet printer. Decorate with family photos or use stencils to paint on your decorations.

Gifts for Mothers Day - Chip in with other family members to treat your mom to a day at a spa. Put together some pampering services that are affordable and best suit your mom.

Gifts for Mothers Day - Does she have a favourite team or a favorite performer who might be coming to town? Do some research and buy her tickets. Going with her would be the best.

Forget any piece of exercise equipment she doesn’t specifically ask for. (Nothing is as unwanted as an unasked-for thigh master!) Kitchen appliances, garden tools, cleaning supplies, and cheap, poorly arranged flowers will never make a mom’s top-ten gift list. Jewellery is always appreciated, as is the promise of help with household chores. Just think luxury, hand made, or pampering, and you won’t go wrong!