It’s that time of year again! While in all honesty, we should aim to celebrate our mothers every day, Mother’s Day marks the day we put in that extra effort to thank our mums for their endless advice, love and support that, truth be told, we can all take for granted at times. Sometimes, when you’re saving, these calendar events can be a little stressful, this particular day doesn’t have to be an expensive one. Her most cherished gift is quality time with you, so forget the wallet and give her a day she’ll remember with these easy ideas.

Create an at-home spa day

What better way to spoil mum than with a day of pampering? While other families fight for chairs in busy restaurants, give mum some peace and quiet with an indulgent day at home that comes at no cost. Light some candles, run a bubble bath, and put on mum’s favourite playlist. Why not go the extra mile by creating an easy homemade facemask or painting her nails?

Why she’ll love it: Topped off with a cup of tea or a glass of her favourite wine, she will be relaxed, worry-free and grateful to be able to avoid the stresses of her busy life.

Host a movie night

A cost-effective activity for the whole family to enjoy, a movie night is the perfect way to spoil mum with some quality family time. Make sure the lounge room is at its comfiest with plenty of pillows and blankets. Dim the lights, organise her favourite snacks, give her a glass of wine, and settle in for her favourite film. Without spending, you’ve given your mum a great way to relax and enjoy time with her favourite people.

Why she’ll love it: Whether she falls asleep or not, she’ll love snuggling up and enjoying quality time with the family.

Go on a family adventure

Make the most of the fresh autumn weather and take mum for a family outing! Whether you put on exercise gear and go on a bush walk, grab a picnic rug and head to the beach, or pick up a ball and head to the local park, getting the family outside is an easy, inexpensive way to enjoy time with mum.

Why she’ll love it: As there’s no need to dig into your wallet, an outdoor activity is the perfect way to get the entire family together and give mum a fun, action-filled day that she will love.

Find easy ways to DIY

Without spending any money, tap into your creative side by making your mum something special that she can keep.

Grab an old book or unused album and make a photo book – this is the perfect way to remind her of the best times you’ve shared together.

Take a jar, and fill it with reasons you love your mum for her to open on the special day, or better, write 365 reasons so she can open one every day of the year – while it benefits Mum by making her feel special every day of the year, it also helps you by increasing the chances of her forgiveness the next time you forget to do the washing up!

Another idea that mum will love – get the kids involved and make her a good-old coupon book. Each page acts as a voucher for various chores that different family members will have to do for mum, like unloading the dishwasher or taking the dog for a walk – she’ll love the creativity but most importantly adore all the help!

Why she’ll love it: Mums are possibly the most appreciative recipients of homemade gifts.

Have you treated your mum to something special that didn’t blow your budget?