Cheap, Inexpensive Gifts and Decorations for Mother's Day

Waking up on Mother's Day a few years ago, I was greeted by low hanging streamers and balloons crisscrossing my bedroom, the handiwork of my eight-year old. Paper surreptitiously stolen from my home printer announced I was the best Mom ever and tater tots later accompanied these festive decorations from the microwave garnished with happy yellow 'flowers from the yard'. As precious as these memories are, most Moms would probably prefer not to cringe at the sight of their Mother's Day decorations. Here are some tips on inexpensive ways to decorate to show Mom how much she's appreciated without forcing her to run to an office supply store the next day. Several of these items may already be available at home; these tips, combined with a quick trip around the house for items to use will help you celebrate Mother's Day with pizazz without using a rebate check!

Non-mylar balloons are generally inexpensive and are probably even available at your local grocery store. I suggest if you go to a party supply store such as Party America, check the clearance bins. You'll find everything from streamers and paper tiaras (to show Mom she's the queen of your heart) to funny cartoon inspired decorations you can personalize to create a theme all your own. Being budget-conscious is a gift to Mom in itself; making a decoration that pulls double duty as a gift is a win-win situation. Have the kids get some smooth, medium sized rocks (preferably not from Mom's garden!) and paint Mother's Day greetings. Once they're dry, these handy rocks may be used as paperweights or doorstops. If you're going for the classic breakfast in bed, a small package of confetti is cheap and re-usable. Sprinkle some on the bottom of a breakfast tray to add sparkle to Mom's favorite breakfast.

Candles are another great, inexpensive decoration which may found at the local grocery store or even forgotten in a closet. Light a few candles, add Mom's favorite scented bath oil and Voila! Mom's bath is turned into a secluded spa. Just add 'kids out of the house' to this idea for a Mother's Day gift that looks and smells great and will leave Mom relaxed and refreshed.