Some of us groan when we learn it's mother's day, the rest of us are pleased at the opportunity to show how much she means to us. Whichever group you fall into, all of us experience a lack of inspiration at some point, which is why we've put together some unique ideas for great mother's day gifts and ways to celebrate...

The first trick to making Mother's day special is to be on alert all year round. That doesn't mean carrying a Dictaphone or rushing off to make phone calls every time your speak to her, but remember what your mum's likes and dislikes are and keep a note of any moments of inspiration you have. Does she love a certain perfume but it can only be bought in a shop halfway across the country? Next time someone you know is traveling that way ask them to stop and buy a bottle. Even if these things are 8 months in advance of the big day, there's no harm done. Looking at your list might bring some ideas too; can you combine two of her favorite things? For instance she might love a certain type of music and a certain city; can you get concert tickets there?

If you're looking for the classic gifts such as flowers and chocolates, but you want them to have a personal message attached to them then this is easily done. Instead of simply stuffing a note into the bouquet or getting a tablet of chocolate with written frosting, try getting a permanent engraved or printed message on a photo frame with a picture of you and her, or you and your siblings. Take a different approach to flowers and get a glass vase with a message engraved into it so that every subsequent occasion you can buy her flowers to go in it and remind her that you love her.

If your mum's under stress or is worried about something then the best thing you can do for her is to take her mind off it completely. Often the easiest way to do this is to take her out for the day, or even on holiday. Of course work and family commitments need to be sorted out, but even if the holiday is booked for six months after Mother's day she'll still be ever grateful. In fact, the excitement and anticipation of an upcoming holiday will make it more special than one you go on straight away. Try to choose a place that has some meaning to the two of you, such as a destination that you used to visit as a child. Alternatively, choose somewhere that she's mentioned she'd like to go in the past, or one that offers a particular experience that she'd like. There are plenty of places that offer wine tasting vineyard tours, or the opportunity to create your own chocolates in a factory.

Only you and your siblings can possibly know your mother well enough to choose her the perfect present. Just remember that she's looking for good memories, whether you're creating them or bringing them back, and the longer they last, the better.

Stan Tian

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