Once was boring: lame gifts turned cool

Boring gifts that once deflated any special occasion, such as upcoming Mother’s Day, are the new must-have so you can ace that next present.

Boring gifts that once deflated any special occasion, such as upcoming Mother’s Day are the new must-have so you can ace that next present.

Mother’s Day traditions differ throughout the world.

Indeed, the day itself, which began in 1907 in the US, is formally celebrated on varying dates in various countries.

In Australia it’s held on the second Sunday of May meaning that this year we’re looking at May 8 and throughout the country mothers of all ages, shapes and types will gather with those who love them.

It’s a wonderful day to celebrate because of the significance of the relationship, says Elizabeth Shaw, CEO of Relationships Australia.

“Stopping to give that relationship time and attention is always worth doing,” says Elizabeth firmly.

“However, we need to remember that we should take time to appreciate relationships all year round.”

The other point Elizabeth would like to make is that the person you consider mum might not be the woman who birthed you.

Take time to appreciate relationships.

“Your ‘Mum’ can be biological or may be someone wise, loving, supportive and important to you that has stepped into that role,” says Elizabeth.

“Or, someone who has assumed that role in your own heart regardless of whether it has ever been formally discussed.”

Mums come in all shapes and sizes it would seem. Whatever the details behind your relationship with your mum, as Elizabeth says, Mother’s Day is the perfect time to let her know how much you love and appreciate her and all that she does for you. And in all likelihood she does a lot.

According to research released in 2021 by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, 62 per cent of women spent five or more hours a week on unpaid indoor housework.

Given that, you could start chipping in more often.

GIFTS TO ACE THAT NEXT SPECIAL OCCASION INCLUDING MOTHER’S DAY

You could also give her a Mother’s Day gift that will make housework less arduous for all.

Yes, we’re talking about a robot vacuum, says Nick Trajkovski, floorcare buyer for The Good Guys.

Ecovacs DEEBOT U2 Robotic Vacuum.

These timesaving task-busters make light work of the dullest of chores, keeping the floors of your home clean letting your mum spend more time doing the things she loves.

“The Ecovacs DEEBOT U2 Robotic Vacuum tackles hard floors and carpets with ease, while the Ecovacs DEEBOT T9+ Robotic Vacuum also has a mopping function, auto-empty station and a mobile air freshener too,” says Nick.

Now that the floors are being taken care of, your mum might like to kick back for a while, perhaps enjoying a brew whipped up in the coffee maker you also gift her.

“If your mum enjoys the taste of espresso, the Smeg Automatic Coffee Machine with Frother, delivers an effortless bean-to-cup experience,” says Tania Grillinzoni, portable appliances buyer for The Good Guys.

Also your mum will have a magnificent 50s inspired coffee machine on her bench to use year around,” adds Tania.

She also recommends the KitchenAid Artisan Hand Mixer and / or the KitchenAid Artisan Tilt Stand Mixer, both of which are available in a range of colours including chic Onyx Black or sophisticated Feathered Pink.

KitchenAid Artisan Tilt Stand Mixer.

And for the trend followers …

First on the list –

Air Fryer

Portable appliances buyer for The Good Guys Tania Grillinzoni likes the Tefal Easy Fry & Grill Deluxe Air Fryer because it does it all, she says.

“You can fry and grill with precision with digital controls and little to no oil,” says Tania.

“With limitless recipe options available, mum will enjoy healthier cooking – and you will enjoy all the treats she makes.”

Tefal Easy Fry & Grill Deluxe Air Fryer.

Next up – Noise Cancelling Headphones

Audio buyer for The Good Guys Christos Boukogiannis says this stye of headphones has really taken off in recent years.

“If your mum has a home office or just deserves some quiet chill-time, noise cancelling headphones are a must,” says Christos.

A must: noise cancelling headphones.

“Premium Sony Noise Cancelling Headphones in Silver or Black are perfect if Mum likes an over ear headphones, or, if she prefers true wireless earbuds – the Jabra Elite 7 Pro in Black or Gold Beige, with outstanding music or calls anywhere should be on your gift list.”

Finally – Power Blenders are bigger than ever

And it’s easy to see why, says Tania Grillinzoni.

“With a Nutribullet Pro 1200, mum can blitz up anything from a satisfying smoothie to a cheeky cocktail in a flash, plus this blender has removable blades so clean up is a breeze.”