Mother's Day is one of the most celebrated holidays across the globe. Each year, this special day honors the dedication, love, and sacrifices made by mothers, maternal figures, and caregivers alike. But behind the hugs, flowers, and heartfelt cards, there’s data showcasing just how massive this occasion really is. From spending trends to gifting habits, Mother's Day creates ripples not just in our lives but also in markets, industries, and even cultural traditions.
A Multi-Billion-Dollar Holiday
On average, individuals spend around $274.02 per person. These figures continue to grow each year as families and loved ones find new ways to celebrate and spend on mom.
Where Does The Money Go?
The NRF identifies the most popular categories for Mother’s Day spending as follows:
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Jewelry: Many choose to honor their mothers with timeless keepsakes like necklaces, bracelets, and rings.
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Special outings: Activities include dining at restaurants, spa days, or family outings to celebrate the day together.
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Flowers: Flower shops experience a significant uptick in business, with traditional bouquets being a go-to gift.
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Greeting cards: Despite the digital age, cards remain a heartfelt staple, with nearly 72% of consumers purchasing one.
Online Vs. Brick-And-Mortar Shopping
E-commerce plays a major role in Mother's Day preparations. Over 40% of shoppers in 2023 made their purchases online, citing convenience and a wider variety of options as the primary reasons. However, local stores and brick-and-mortar outlets still capture a significant share of spending, especially for items like flowers and last-minute gifts.
What Moms Really Want
While traditional gifts are always appreciated, surveys indicate that many mothers value quality time and experiences more than material items. According to a study, 48% of moms said they’d prefer a special outing or activity with their family, and 36% expressed interest in receiving homemade or personalized gifts, which hold sentimental value. This shift toward experiences over materialism reflects broader societal trends, as more people prioritize meaningful moments over consumer products.
Personalized Gifts Are On The Rise
Customization is no longer just a buzzword; it’s becoming a key driver for Mother's Day sales. Personalized gifts, like custom photo albums, engraved jewelry, and hand-written letters, have seen steady growth. These items show thoughtfulness and effort, which resonate deeply with moms looking for that personal touch.
When People Shop
Interestingly, Mother's Day tends to drive a significant amount of last-minute shopping. Nearly 35% of consumers admit to purchasing gifts just days before the holiday. This procrastination has led many retailers to promote expedited shipping or offer local pickup options to cater to last-minute buyers.
Fun Facts About Mother's Day
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The Most Popular Flower: The carnation is the official flower of Mother’s Day, but roses and mixed bouquets are also top picks.
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Calls Skyrocket: Mother’s Day is one of the busiest days for phone calls, with an estimated 122 million calls placed annually in the U.S. alone.
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Origin Story: Mother’s Day was officially founded in the U.S. in 1914 by Anna Jarvis. Ironically, she later regretted its commercialization.
What We Can Learn from Mother's Day
Mother’s Day is more than numbers or spending habits; it’s a reminder of the value and importance of showing appreciation. For businesses, it highlights the need for thoughtfulness and connection in their branding. For families, it serves as a joyful opportunity to celebrate those who give us unconditional love.
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