15 ways to make Mother’s Day special without a gift

Small gestures can make a big impact when they come from the heart, and these affordable, memorable ways to celebrate Mum are guaranteed to make her feel like a queen this Mother's Day.


 

1. Serve breakfast in bed 

This soul-soothing show of affection has been a Mother’s Day ritual for decades, and our round-up of breakfast in bed recipes has home cooks covered, including tips on how to style your breakfast tray.


 

2. Create a beautiful spread

If you’re planning a big spread, make it extra special by elevating your tablescape with a perfectly set table (forks on the left!). Hazel napery and gold cutlery ooze sophistication and contrast beautifully against icy blue plates—but fans of a brighter look can use our guide to Mediterranean table styling to transport Mum to the Amalfi coast. Whichever way you sway, finish by arranging a striking centrepiece using vases, flowers and sculptural candles.


 

3. Arrange a bouquet

Everyone loves receiving a pretty bouquet, especially if you’ve designed it yourself. Pick flowers fresh from the garden or visit a local produce market to scoop up some stems that you can craft into a unique bouquet. If you haven't arranged flowers before, never fear; we tapped Saskia Havekes, owner of top Sydney florist Grandiflora, to give us the lowdown on how to arrange blooms to look their best.


 

4. Help her get the house organised 

Decluttering and sorting through your home can feel like a mammoth task, so you know Mum will appreciate it if you help her get started. It's best to approach this project one room at a time, and our guide to organising your home, room by room, is full of efficient tips to make organising feel more like bonding time than work.  


 

5. Host a family picnic

Anyone lucky enough to live in a sunny locale can invite family and friends to gather outside for a low-key picnic on the green. Fill your picnic basket with yummy treats, plus a picnic blanket, serving boards and a speaker, and don't forget to take a squiz at our guide to planning the perfect picnic for tempting recipes and transportation tips.


 

6. Bring the spa to her 

If she’s a mum, she deserves some R&R, and an at-home massage or DIY facial is just the ticket. Even the warm glow of candles or the soothing scent of an aroma diffuser can conjure positive energy—add a cup of tea and quiet time with a book, and Mum will be floating on cloud nine in no time.


 

7. Bake her something indulgent

Who doesn’t love cake? Mum will appreciate that you took the time to bake her a sweet treat, and if you’re lucky, she’ll share! If you don’t have a recipe up your sleeve, browse through these five-star cakes, tried and tested by the T&W team.

 
 

8. Organise a games night

Once you pull out the puzzles and board games, a quiet night in can quickly transform into a laugh-filled gathering. Whip up a cheese platter, pour Mum a glass of wine and let the silliness ensue.


 

9. Settle in for a movie marathon 

Make Mother’s Day an excuse to indulge in a few classic movies. Think Mama Mia, Steel Magnolias, Freaky Friday and Dirty Dancing. Brave and Turning Red are great flicks for little ones to enjoy alongside a big bowl of popcorn and a snuggly throw blanket.


 

10. Pour her a cocktail

Why not bust out your barware and shake up a storm this Mother's Day? You’ll find a drink to suit every palette among these six classic cocktails, but if Mum likes a lighter drop, these refreshing spritz cocktails will go down a treat.


 

11. Put on afternoon tea

Afternoon tea is back on the agenda in a big way after Pinterest dubbed it the new happy hour. There is a lot to love about scones, jam and cream, but for something a little different, check out this lineup of twists on Aussie teatime favourites, including mini finger buns and Iced Vovo cheesecake.


 

12. Frame some photos

These days, we're constantly taking snaps, but how many do we actually print out and frame? Select a few family faves and pop them in a picture frame or photo album to create a beautiful gift for Mum.


 

13. Make a video 

For this mini-project, you and your family could share stories about how special your mum is. All you need to do is grab your phone and hit record.


 

14. Curate a playlist

If words aren’t your thing, say it with music by curating a personalised playlist full of songs that remind you of your mum. Every time she plays it, she’ll think of you too.


 

15. Let her sleep in

Last but not least, the gift of a good night's sleep should never be underestimated! You can bet Mum will appreciate the extra hours in bed, so hand her an eye mask, hang up the 'do not disturb' sign and let her sleep in for the whole weekend.