This year, Mother’s Day may be a little different with social distancing restrictions in place. For some, we will be lucky enough to be spending the day with mum in person, but for those celebrating from afar this may involve some out of the box thinking to make things a little extra special.

To make things easier, we have put together a list of some ideas that you can use or tweak to your own style:

Enjoy brunch on Zoom

Everybody knows brunch is the best meal of the day. So, why not share the love by sending Mum a few delicious treats from her favourite local café or restaurant. You can then connect on Facetime, Facebook video messenger, Zoom or Skype and enjoy the food together. Did someone say Mimosa’s?

Send a package of goodies

Sure, sending flowers or pre-made gifts will always be appreciated, but if you really want to blow the socks off your mum this year, try for something a little unique. Consider assembling a gift box or hamper with a bunch of your mum’s favourite things like;

  • Candles
  • Mini perfumes
  • Bath salts/ bath bombs
  • Foot and hand creams or scrubs
  • Sweet treats like chocolates, biscuits, nougats, lollies
  • Books or magazines
  • Hair treatments
  • Face masks

Host a virtual family tribute night with trivia

Mum’s are the star of the show, so why not have a “Tribute to Mum” night with your siblings. Remind everyone to bring their favourite photos, videos and stories to the Zoom or Skype call. A forewarning, that there will probably be some tears and fits of laughter, or both. If you’re looking to host a number of people on this video call, check out Google Hangouts or the Houseparty app.

Give her the gift of subscriptions

If there is any time to enjoy a subscription, it’s during isolation. With the current circumstances a lot of local businesses are adapting their business models to offer a range of subscriptions and bundles.

This could be a great opportunity for you to give your mum a chance to taste test wine from a local bottle shop/ winery or meal kit supplier. Outside of food you could gift her a subscription to her favourite; magazine, podcast, or even a subscription to a virtual meditation, yoga or Pilates class. The options are endless and we’ve found this handy site that lists a range of Australian subscription boxes by category as a good place to start.  

A candlelit dinner in El Lounge Room

Send mum on a trip to El Lounge Room (her lounge room) for a fancy dinner by yours truly. Organise a takeaway delivery from one of her favourite restaurants for a special dinner experience. Consider contacting the restaurant directly to avoid the business owner having to pay a third-party fee.

If you want to turn it up a notch you could also buy a tasting kit from a local winery/cellar or distillery (for those more in favour of gin) that matches the food you order, or just as an extra treat post-dinner. If you need a place to start Urban Taste Bud has a range of subscriptions and boxes for you to choose from.

Although these are only just a handful of ideas, everybody’s budget and ability to do the above will vary. The most important thing to remember is to only commit to what you can afford within your budget. It's the thought alone that matters the most.

A simple phone or video call, handwritten note or card will be enough to bring a smile to her face and let her know that you’re thinking of her.