Budget friendly tips for Mother's Day
Mark your calendar, Mother's Day is this Sunday, May 10.
"Jewelry never fails! It never fails," said Andy Kelly, who is a father that's been married for 15 years.
"When you got the little ones, flowers and candy, you can't go wrong there either," Kelly said.
While many moms will tell you they don't want loved ones to spend a lot for Mother's Day, The National Retail Federation found Americans who do plan to shop for mom will spend an average of about $170 this year.
"Most moms prefer an experience or just spending time with family and friends instead of getting an actual present," said Consumer Expert Andrea Woroch.
Woroch says shoppers should scour sites like Groupon.com and LivingSocial.com to find local deals on experiences.
"You'll find deep discounts on spa gift certificates," Woroch said. "There might be something beyond just a massage. Maybe there's some type of body wrap or champagne and strawberries you can find. There's horseback riding or a wine tasting event, you can get really creative by searching those sites."
In fact, sites like Groupon.com and Amazon.com even have special sections for popular gift ideas and deals for Mother's Day.
When it comes to flowers, Woroch says buying at the supermarket is a great way to stretch your dollar.
"I recommend going to the grocery store. You're looking to save 30% over specialty florists," Woroch said. "Now, if your mother lives across the country, you should go online for coupon codes at Couponsherpa.com."
Woroch says a lot of polls say moms love things that are personalized so pictures can go a long way.
"You can create a picture on a mobile smart phone case," Woroch said. "You can do that at Wal-mart or CVS.
"You can go to Snapfish.com and find photo mugs, photo calendars and it doesn't have to cost you a lot."
Woroch says for greeting cards or gift wrap, the dollar store is the best place to save big. And, if jewelry is on mom's wish list, she points out, make sure you compare.
"Mother's Day represents one of the last holidays for jewelry retailers to make big sales," Woroch said. "So, while they may promote discounts, often, times the price is inflated to make that deal look like a better value.
But, if you know your mom would love a cute little necklace or bracelet or pair of earrings, go to Etsy.com where you can find unique pieces from people who make their own jewelry," Woroch said.
"It's really cute stuff and really really inexpensive - a fraction of what you would pay at a department store like Nordstrom or Bloomingdales."
Woroch points out that May is a great time of year to buy last years small kitchen appliances. And, if all else fails, a well-deserved day off is always a win that doesn't cost a dime.
Andy Kelly agrees, "No, not a penny," he said. "Again, take the kids to the park, let mom have some alone time - priceless."
For more moneysaving tips from Andrea Woroch click HERE
