Unique, Memorable Gifts

A tabletop aquarium can be a low-maintenance, customizable gift.

On Sunday, May 14, mothers across North Carolina will be celebrated, treated, pampered and given presents. Most will either genuinely like their gifts or will feign happiness for their children’s sake. So, how do you ensure your mother isn’t the latter on her special day? Often the solution is to choose a unique gift tailored to her interests and hobbies. Here are some ideas for budget friendly, memorable gifts.

• Subscription clubs: From coffee, tea and wine to books, fashion and makeup, select a club she’ll like and she will enjoy monthly shipments. It’s truly the gift that keeps on giving. Note: First shipments can arrive the following month, depending on when you order. Check shipping details.
• Restored pictures: Before smartphone images, printed photographs were cherished keepsakes. For a meaningful gift, find an old photo of her and have it restored. Finish out the gift by putting it in a beautiful frame.
• Classes: Have you heard for years how she would like to learn to play tennis or spin pottery? Give her an ongoing course or weekend workshop. Find a few locally you think she’ll like, then present her with the information and a pretty certificate that says you will pay for the class of her choosing.
• Themes: Sometimes it helps to think in terms of themes. Does your mother love the water? How about giving her a new towel in her favorite color coupled with flip flops for the beach or pool? Or, perhaps she’d like a tabletop aquarium if it is low-maintenance. For example, the biOrb HALO 15 (biorb.com) is designed as a globe and comes with 16 LED color lighting options. Its bubbling filtration system maintains a clean PH environment for fish. Help her select plants and rocks at a pet store, and definitely let her choose whether or not she wants to add fish.
• Donations: Consider making a charitable donation to her special cause in her name. Does she adore animals? Donate to a nearby animal shelter or to a certain exhibit at a zoo.
• Memberships: A membership can be a useful gift that’s much appreciated. For example, an automotive assistance membership can allay traveling concerns. Or maybe she would enjoy a membership to the local museum or a garden for year-round visits.
• Custom experiences: Whether it’s a gift certificate to a favorite local restaurant or theatre tickets, an experience will stand out. Slip the certificate or tickets in with her Mother’s Day card and watch her eyes light up upon opening it.
• Cultural gifts: Is your mom interested in a particular culture? Create a gift basket around it. Gather special spices to make an authentic recipe or find a book about the culture’s history. Traditional clothing, culture-specific art and imported candy can all help you create a wonderful present.
• Your time and talents: If your mother seems to have everything, offer to cook, babysit, do laundry or assist with gardening chores.