What really makes the greatest Mother’s Day gift? We believe it is one that considers mum, and Mother Earth. Here’s our guide to sustainable gift-giving this Mother’s Day.
Mother’s Day: the day to celebrate the maternal characters in your life, from biological mothers, grandmothers and stepmothers to mother-in-laws, adoptive mothers and those incredible motherly figures who are always there when you need them.
And while we rightfully honour these influential beings who play a vital role in our own lives, there’s another Mother to consider that sustains all life – Mother Earth. We truly believe it is possible to honour both on Mother’s Day, with a gift that shows you appreciate your mum or mother figure more than ever while showing Mother Earth a little love too.
Less is always more
It is so easy to get caught up in the idea of buying gifts that we can forget what we are trying to achieve. Take the time to consider what your recipient would really appreciate this Mother’s Day. Instead of buying lots of small souvenirs for the sake of it, why not buy one truly special present? Sometimes a single, meaningful and well-considered gift, that you are certain will be used rather than thrown away or left in a bottom drawer, speaks huge volumes. Embracing minimalism and avoiding impulsive purchases really is one of the greenest things you can do when gift-giving.
Local business love
Since the start of the pandemic, it has become apparent that shopping small and local is more important than ever. In making a conscious effort to source local items from small, independent businesses, you will reduce your environmental footprint while also helping to boost the local economy – at a time when it may really need it. If you already have a gift in mind, use the power of social media or websites like Etsy to search for a local maker whose sale would really make a difference. Or why not head over to our online shop where we stock a range of independent, eco-friendly brands from all over the UK.
For the experience
As opposed to material gifts – in other words: stuff – consider giving the gift of an experience this Mother’s Day. From restaurant and shop vouchers to spa treatments, theatre tickets and crafty workshops, there’s a huge range of gift experience ideas (for when the world reopens) that can be personalised to your recipient and may be far more enjoyable than a conventional offering. This is a particularly good option if you are struggling for ideas or want to treat your mum to something that she wouldn’t necessarily buy for herself. Not only this, but an experience gift that the two of you can share is both something to look forward to and something that urges quality time together, two things we are arguably all craving at the moment.
Handcrafted with care
From baked goods to craft projects, there are countless ways to get creative and give a homemade present this Mother’s Day. Handmade is not only thoughtful, since it shows you have dedicated time and effort into curating something personal, but it can also be very cost-effective too. Pinterest is your friend! Why not try making a homemade pesto or jam, crafting a macrame wall hanging or crochet flannel and accompanying face scrub. Alternatively, you could give homegrown vegetables, herbs or plant cuttings in a hand painted plant pot. Over on our Instagram, we have a huge array of video tutorials for handcrafted gift ideas, from DIY headbands and candles to homemade vegan Ferrero Rochers and Jaffa Cakes.
Zero-waste wrapping
Unfortunately, when we purchase presents, there is not only the waste associated with its packaging but also with the gift wrapping. Though we all adore a well-wrapped present, flamboyant bow or wildly patterned paper, these typical high-street products are made from mixed materials which make them impossible to recycle. So, we urge you to wrap mindfully this Mother’s Day. We’re big believers that it’s what’s on the inside that counts, which is why we always recommend saving and reusing gift bags, tissue paper or fabric where possible or purchasing recyclable wrapping paper, biodegradable paper tape and eco-friendly greetings cards.
Whoever you’re buying for this Mother’s Day, be sure to consider our guide to sustainable gift-giving. And if you have any tips or tricks to make gifting that little more eco-friendly, let us know in the comments below!
Written by Hannah Stark
