Mother’s Day Spending Projected to Reach $34.1 Billion as Consumers Seek Meaningful Gifts
This year, Mother’s Day falls on May 11th, a date enshrined in American tradition since 1914 when Congress officially designated the second Sunday in May as the day to celebrate mothers. Despite ongoing economic uncertainties, consumer spending for Mother’s Day is projected to reach a staggering $34.1 billion, showcasing the enduring importance of honoring mothers across the nation.
A recent survey conducted by the National Retail Federation (NRF) offers insights into the spending habits and preferences of consumers this Mother’s Day. The survey reveals that a significant 84% of U.S. adults plan to participate in the holiday, demonstrating the widespread recognition and appreciation for mothers. The average spending per person is expected to be around $259, exceeding their budget for 2024 by approximately $5, highlighting the willingness of consumers to invest in making Mother’s Day special.
Traditional gift categories continue to reign supreme, with flowers, greeting cards, and special outings such as dinner or brunch remaining the most popular choices. However, the survey also sheds light on the substantial spending allocated to other categories. Consumers are expected to spend a total of $6.8 billion on jewelry, demonstrating the enduring appeal of this timeless gift. Special outings, such as restaurant meals and entertainment events, are projected to account for $6.3 billion in spending, highlighting the desire to create memorable experiences with mothers. Gift cards also remain a popular option, with consumers expected to spend $3.5 billion on this versatile gift choice.
The flower industry anticipates a significant boost in sales, with total spending on flowers expected to reach $3.2 billion. Greeting cards, a traditional way to express sentiments of love and appreciation, are projected to generate $1.1 billion in spending. These figures underscore the continued relevance of these classic Mother’s Day gifts.
In an increasingly digital age, online shopping remains the preferred destination for Mother’s Day purchases. The convenience, wide selection, and competitive pricing offered by online retailers make them an attractive option for busy consumers seeking the perfect gift.
Beyond the sheer volume of spending, the NRF survey reveals a growing trend towards meaningful gift-giving. Almost half of consumers (approximately 50%) indicate that their top priority is to find a gift that is unique or distinctive, suggesting a desire to move beyond generic presents and select something that truly reflects their mother’s personality and interests.
The popularity of experiences as gifts continues to rise, particularly in the post-pandemic era. With travel restrictions eased and social gatherings becoming more commonplace, consumers are increasingly seeking to create lasting memories with their mothers. The survey indicates that 36% of men plan to give experiences this year, a notable increase from 29% in 2019. This trend reflects a shift towards valuing experiences over material possessions, as consumers recognize the enduring impact of shared moments and memories.
Prosper Executive Vice President of Strategy Phil Rist emphasizes the value of experiential gifts, stating, "Alongside traditional gifts like flowers or a card, gifts of experience are a way to create a special memory with mom. Whether it’s tickets to a concert or movie, a wine tasting or simply a scenic hike and picnic, there are options to fit any budget.”
The survey underscores the sentiment that Mother’s Day is not solely about extravagant spending, but rather about expressing love and appreciation in a way that resonates with individual mothers. Mothers generally appreciate almost anything you do for them, whether it’s a grand gesture or a simple act of kindness. You don’t have to break the bank to make Mom happy. The top gifts that mothers with children younger than 18 want are quality time, flowers, and an experience like dinner or a spa treatment.
The survey highlights the importance of spending quality time with mothers. Whether it’s an in-person visit, a phone call, or a video chat, connecting with Mom is a priceless gift. "So go see your mom in person if you can. Call your mom. Zoom or FaceTime with her. Your quality time together is priceless."
The article acknowledges the immense contributions of mothers, who work hard and give their time unselfishly. It encourages readers to give their mothers a break and celebrate them by letting them sleep in, taking some chores off their list, or lightening their load by running some errands. There are many ways to honor your mom without breaking the bank.
The article concludes with practical advice for consumers, urging them to plan their shopping carefully and shop around for the best prices. It stresses the importance of thinking about what you want to get Mom and how much you can afford. Going shopping without a plan leads to more impulse buying.
In essence, this Mother’s Day, the message is clear: celebrate the mothers in your lives with thoughtfulness, appreciation, and a focus on creating meaningful connections, regardless of the price tag.
