A Guide to Mother's Day

What You Need to Know

Mother's Day offers the chance to show appreciation for your mother.
Children give gifts and cards to their mothers and sometimes grandmothers.
Shopping online for Mother's Day gifts can help shoppers find the best deal.
A thoughtful card is the perfect accompaniment to a gift.
Families often spend some quality time together on Mother's Day.
Some restaurants charge extra for Mother's Day meals.
Gifts ordered online may take several days to arrive.

Origins

Historians believe Mother's Day, or Mothering Sunday, came from 16th century Christian traditions in the UK. Children would visit their mother's church once a year on Laetere Sunday to be reunited with their mothers. Apprentices and women employed as servants would be released to meet with their mothers on this day.

Modern celebrations

Mother's Day is now a largely secular annual event, in spite of some remaining links with the Christian faith. The emphasis is placed upon showing appreciation for one's mother and spending time with family. Some Christian churches retain the historical element by focusing on Mary, mother of Jesus Christ of the traditional idea of the Mother Church.

Largely commercialised during the 1950s, Mother's Day is now celebrated annually with the giving of gifts and family gatherings. Mothering Sunday is held on March 1st at the earliest, and April 4th at the latest, dependent on when Easter Sunday falls.

Gift ideas

When it comes to buying a gift for Mother's Day, many people find it beneficial to shop online to find the best shopping deals. Products can be easily compared in terms of price and availability at several different retailers, and UK Net Guide also features a handy shopping comparison guide. Secure payments can be made online and purchases delivered to take all the stress out of a shopping trip ahead of the big day.

Personalised presents

Many children choose more personal gifts for their mothers – younger children in particular may make their own card or gift in school. Mother's Day could provide the perfect opportunity to give a personalised, sentimental gift, such as a photo frame with a picture of both of you in it. More light-hearted presents can also be found, such as mugs emblazoned with the words World's Best Mum.

Quality time

In addition to buying gifts and cards for Mother's Day, many families take the opportunity to spend some quality time together and provide a treat for the mothers in their families. A traditional Sunday roast in a nice restaurant can bring everyone together, while on a sunny day a family walk in the park can be nice. Whatever the plans made, the priority is to make mothers feel special, appreciated and loved.