Make Mum’s Day Without Breaking The Bank
With Mother’s Day approaching on March 30th, many are feeling the pressure to plan something special while managing tight budgets. With Brits planning to spend an average of £125.30 on Mother’s Day this year, gaming and entertainment specialist Neal Taparia believes the most memorable celebrations don’t need to come with such a hefty price tag. “The best Mother’s Day experiences come from thoughtfulness and personal connection, not price tags,” says Neal Taparia, Founder of 1000 Mines. “I’ve seen how games bring families together, and this same creative thinking can transform Mother’s Day celebrations.”
Below, Neal shares five budget-friendly ways with us so that you can create meaningful Mother’s Day memories that your mum will treasure far more than an expensive store-bought gift.
1. Create A Personalised Game Night
Game nights offer a brilliant way to connect with mum without stretching your budget. “Design game activities around your mum’s personality and interests,” suggests Neal. “If she loves crime shows, create a simple murder mystery game with household items. For a mum who enjoys word games, set up a themed Scrabble night with words that remind you of her.”
For tech-savvy children, Neal recommends digital alternatives: “Use online platforms like 1000 Mines or other free games that match your mum’s preferences. You could even create a tournament with small homemade trophies and prizes.”
2. Cook A Special Meal Together
Instead of expensive restaurant bookings, Neal suggests turning meal preparation into a bonding activity. “Pick a cuisine your mum loves but hasn’t tried cooking before,” he tells YCB. “Find free recipes online and shop for ingredients together. The experience of learning something new side by side creates lasting memories.”
Presentation matters…! “Set the table nicely with items you already have at home. Add handwritten menu cards with personal messages about why you chose each dish, connecting the meal to special memories you share.”
3. Create A Memory Scrapbook Or Digital Slideshow
“Physical scrapbooks using existing photos and mementos cost very little but mean everything to mums,” Neal explains. “Gather photos spanning different years and add handwritten notes about what those moments meant to you.”
For those who prefer digital options: “Create a slideshow with music that’s significant to your relationship. Add voice recordings explaining why you chose each photo. The time and thought you put into the project will mean more than any shop-bought gift.”
4. Plan A Home Spa Day
“Transform your bathroom into a relaxation zone using items you likely already have,” Neal suggests. “Make DIY face masks from kitchen ingredients like honey, yogurt, and oatmeal. Add calming music, scented candles, and prepare cucumber water in fancy glasses.”
The key is attention to detail: “Write up a ‘spa menu’ of treatments you’ll provide, like a hand massage or hair brushing. These simple touches make mum feel truly pampered without the high-end spa prices.”
5. Organise A Meaningful Movie Marathon
“Select films that connect to your shared memories or inside jokes,” Neal recommends. “Maybe it’s movies you watched together when you were young, or films set in places you’ve visited together.”
To make it special: “Create handmade tickets and set up a snack bar with her favourite treats. Between films, share why you chose each movie and what it reminds you of in your relationship.”
Mother’s Day isn’t about fancy presents or expensive outings – it’s about showing mum she matters through genuine connection. From games to entertainment, many people truly value authentic moments of connection and the feeling that someone understands what makes them happy.
The most successful Mother’s Day celebrations focus on creating experiences that speak directly to your mum as an individual. Take time to think about what makes her smile, what interests her, and how she best connects with people. Then design your day around those elements. The love and attention in your planning will shine through, making her feel truly special without breaking the bank.