Looking for ways to show the moms in your life how much they are truly appreciated and loved this Mother’s Day?  Whether it’s your mom, stepmom, grandma or like-a-mom, here are five easy tips to make this a memorable holiday for the ladies in your life.

Above all else, remember this day is dedicated to mothers, so clear your schedule and make plans to spend the day celebrating the woman who has devoted so much of her life to celebrating you.

 

1. Get Outside – Plan a one-day family adventure to a special place, head to the beach, lake or a favorite park. Or take a walk or bike ride, enjoy a movie or concert or go on a picnic. Regardless of what you do, the most important thing is to spend time together as a family.

 

2. Treat Her – For many, Mother’s Day involves giving mom a break from cooking and treating her to lunch or dinner at a favorite restaurant. According to the National Restaurant Association, Mother’s Day is the busiest day of the year for restaurants, so if you haven’t already done so, make a reservation, or be prepared for a wait if you go out.

 

3. Give Her a Break – Or, instead of joining the crowds at a noisy restaurant, let mom relax at home while the rest of the family prepares a fabulous brunch or dinner. To make the day even more festive, invite grandparents, aunts, uncles and other family members for a backyard barbecue in honor of all the moms in the family. And don’t let mom lift a finger during the post-meal cleanup.

 

4. Skip the Bouquet – The more challenging part of Mother’s Day is thinking of gift ideas. Fresh-cut flowers are always an obvious choice, but they’re gone in a week. A more lasting present, such as flowers to plant in pots or the garden, can be enjoyed for months. Or surprise your hardworking mom with a gift certificate for a massage, a day at the spa or a weekend getaway focused on relaxation, pampering and fun.

 

5. Touch Her Heart – If you’re looking for a truly memorable way to honor your mother, write her a sincere letter describing how you feel and acknowledging the contributions she has made in your life. These heartfelt sentiments will mean more to her than you can imagine and will never be forgotten.

 

Now, one piece of advice for all you moms as Mother’s Day nears: Don’t expect your family to read your mind. Let them know how you envision spending the day.  This is the best way to ensure a happy day —  for both you and your family.