7 Unexpected Places to Find Great Mother's Day Gifts

More than 15% of Americans over the age of 18 surveyed by the National Retail Federation (NRF) say that they don’t celebrate Mother’s Day. Or at least they don’t celebrate by spending on mom.

The survey did not probe more deeply into why this group doesn’t celebrate the holiday, primarily, we suppose, because the NRF is interested in what people are buying, not in what they are not buying. And there are plenty of gift ideas that won’t break the bank.

Nationally recognized consumer and money-saving expert Andrea Woroch recently put together a list of seven places consumers might not think to look for a great Mother’s Day gift. Here’s her list:

Although moms deserve the best on this important day, chances are your mother wants something that won’t blow your budget!

Luckily, you don’t have to make a special trip or drive around town in search of the perfect present. Check out these unexpected places to find great Mother’s Day gifts and pay close attention to the savings tips, too!

1. Grocery Store
Flowers are a traditional favorite for Mother’s Day, however they can get a little pricey. This year, skip the florist and check out fresh-cut flowers from your local grocery store. For example, Trader Joe’s offers 10 daffodil stems for only $1.49, or go all out and buy 50 stems for less than $8.00! You can also find potted orchids for less than $15. These flowers are just as fresh as the pricey ones delivered by a florist, plus you know exactly what she’s getting by purchasing them in person. While you’re there, don’t forget to pick up the house wine that sells for less than $10 and gourmet chocolate for under $3!

2. Dollar Store
Those flowers you buy are going to need a vase, and your local dollar store is the place to go! You can find a variety of glass vases to complement your arrangement for just $1. Greeting cards are another dollar store secret;  pay as little as $0.50 for a thoughtful Mother’s Day card, compared to over $5 from the grocery store. Use the savings to pick up ribbon, gift bags or wrapping paper (also just $1 each) to make your Mother’s Day gift shine!

3. Craft Store
Some things never change: according to recent data, over one-third of moms prefer to receive something homemade for Mother’s Day. Craft stores are the perfect places to let your creativity run wild. For example, Michael’s offers great deals on craft items like photo frames which you can customize yourself for only $4.99. If you’re putting together a gift basket, you can often find baskets of various shapes and sizes for as little as $3. To cut the costs, browse printable coupons from CouponSherpa.com to save up to 40% on purchases from Michael’s, JoAnne Fabric, Hobby Lobby and more.

4. Thrift Shop
While many shoppers head straight to the brand-name stores to buy gifts, thrift stores are a better place to find a truly unique gift for a bargain. It takes some patience and the ability to sift through a lot of inventory, but you can often find like-new items like jewelry, handbags, home decor and even designer shoes. In addition to popular thrift stores like Goodwill and The Salvation Army, don’t forget to shop your local consignment shops for gently-used fashion and accessories.

5. Drugstore
You can impress your mom with thoughtful, affordable gifts from drugstores like CVS or Walgreens. Both chains offer personalized photo printing for an assortment of gifts including coffee mugs, art canvases, tote bags and  smartphone cases, plus free same-day pickup on many items. Another idea is a beauty-themed gift basket featuring Mom’s favorite hair, makeup and skin products.  Experts agree that many drugstore beauty buys are just as good as the high-end designer brands, so stock up on lip balms, hair serums, creamy moisturizers and more!

6. Discount Retailer
Discount retailers like Ross and T.J. Maxx give you the opportunity to spoil your mom with designer gifts that don’t come with steep department store prices. You’ll find wallets and handbags from such designers as Kenneth Cole and Vince Camuto for affordable prices. You can also find sunglasses by Nine West, Oscar de la Renta and Cole Haan for under $20. With those prices, you may as well pick up a pair for yourself! Additionally, these stores carry celebrity and designer fragrances for a fraction of retail prices, including Estee Lauder, Elizabeth Arden, Sarah Jessica Parker and more.

7. Warehouse Club
Members of Costco, Sam’s Club and BJ’s Wholesale have access to everything from gadgets to gift cards to gourmet baskets, all of which make great presents for Mother’s Day. Gift cards purchased in bulk are offered at less than face value, with savings of up to 20%. Include a gift card with your mom’s present and save the other cards to use toward upcoming graduation or wedding gifts. You can also print photos and buy ingredients for a gourmet breakfast in bed or family dinner!