Oi, you - it's Mother's Day this weekend. Remember? You last thought about it in March, then promptly forgot. But yes, this is the weekend you are expected to pay homage to the woman who gave you the gift of life.
If you are now hastily making a last-minute dash to the local mall to pick up one of the old standbys - a candle, kitchen gadget or hand cream - slow your roll. There's no need to fret - yet, anyway. We've got you covered with some gorgeous gifts you can find at the last minute, but don't cost an arm and a leg - or your relationship with your mum.
If I've learnt anything from my 24 years as a daughter, unless your mother has specifically requested it, do NOT assume she wants a kitchen appliance, gadget or crockery. It's just not worth it.
Weleda Skin Food Body Lotion, RRP$29.90
No one likes to be dry and ashy, particularly as we enter the colder months. Weleda's Skin Food Body Lotions make a practical purchase while still delivering a little hit of luxury, enriched with naturally sourced, organic ingredients, botanical extracts and essential oils. There are six formulations to pick from, spanning a Revitalising Body Lotion with Sea Buckthorn to a Refreshing Body Lotion with Citrus. You could team the lotion with a deliciously scented candle - think Glasshouse Fragrances - or a pretty perfume for the ultimate indulgence.
Jeuneora Advanced Retinol Serum Renewing Booster, RRP$58
While you can't rewind the years, you can give the gift of anti-ageing in a bottle, which is probably the next best thing. Retinol is a supercharged ingredient that every mature woman should strongly consider adding to their skincare routine. Retinoids, a class of chemicals that derive from vitamin A, can reduce fine lines and wrinkles by supporting the skin's natural production of collagen. They also stimulate the production of new blood vessels, which can improve an uneven skin tone - additional benefits include fading age spots and softening rough texture. Made with an advanced, highly bioactive form of retinol, Jeuneora's highly concentrated serum visibly reduces the appearance of pores, fine lines and wrinkles, giving skin a smoother and more youthful appearance. Its formula is designed to help deliver the skin surface lipid profile of a healthy 22-year-old, so it claims - every mum's dream! She may have a lot to thank you for.
Dermalogica's 'Hydration Heroes', RRP$83 - $109
Yes, Dermalogica may be too rich for some people's wallets - unfortunately, premium products come at a premium price. But if you can afford to splash some cash this Mother's Day, Dermalogica's 'Hydration Heroes' - comprising the Circular Hydration Serum and Hyaluronic Ceramide Mist - could make a beautiful gift. The mist, my personal favourite, is packed with ceramides and four types of hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin and seal in moisture. Hydration is particularly important for mature skin to help maintain its glow and fullness. Consider pairing a product (or two) with a gorgeous jade or rose quartz roller to combat puffiness, boost blood circulation and help those expenny products penetrate deeper - The Warehouse offers a Colour Co facial roller for just $20.
Glasshouse Fragrances Velvet Rhapsody 2022 Mother’s Day Collection, RRP$24.99 - $139.99
As a contemporary alternative to the time-honoured tradition of gifting flowers on Mother's Day, consider picking a gorgeous, floral-inspired gift from Glasshouse Fragrances' limited edition, nine-piece Velvet Rhapsody Collection. The stand-out scents, Water Lily and Yuzu, are heroed in a brand-new fragrance, soy candle and fragrance diffuser, while the packaging - gorgeous green velvet with pops of textured colour - encapsulate the magic of an enchanted garden. Other scents featured in the collection include classics Melbourne Muse - vanilla, coffee flowers and orange blossoms - and Marseille Memoir, a blend of neroli, gardenia and apple blossom.
LUSH Mother's Day 2022 range, RRP$10.90 - $99
Although it's one of the most rewarding jobs in the world, motherhood can also one of the hardest - and most thankless. So say a big 'thanks, mum!' this weekend with gifts from Lush's Mother's Day 2022 range, all of which are locally made, ethical and vegan. From the brand's iconic bath bombs to deliciously scented shower gels, there's something for every mum - at every price point. The range also includes gorgeous gift sets, featuring a selection of body care, shower and bathing products or themed curations, packaged in beautiful boxes. If you're going to venture outside of the Mother's Day range, I cannot recommend enough the Sticky Dates shower gel (it's like bathing in sticky date pudding, syrup and vanilla ice cream) or the indulgent Glen Cocoa face mask - it's like smearing actual chocolate on your face. You go, Glen Coco.
Lyre's Pink London Spirit, RRP$24.43 - $54.99
Leading non-alcoholic spirits brand Lyre's has recently launched its Pink London Spirit, a premium non-alcoholic alternative to pink gin, inspired by the original flavours but with its own, distinct twist. Take a sip and taste rose, cherry and red berry characters with a floral fragrance and hint of juniper. If mum is mindful of her alcohol intake, teetotal or simply enjoys a delicious tipple, this delightful drink is sure to tickle her pink. The spirit can be used to recreate most gin-based cocktails, from a glassic G&T to a Pink Spritz - and even better, there's no headache the next morning.
Beurer Infrared Massager, RRP$160
Treat mum to an at-home massage with this whole-body infrared massager from Beurer. With its penetrating rhythmic massage, this lil' gadget is sure to help her unwind and relax from the stresses of the day. The infrared heat can be selected separately and two interchangeable attachments - the soft attachment and nub attachment - with adjustable intensity offer varying levels of pressure. You can pick up the gadget from Andoo, a new lifestyle e-retailer and home shopping destination which offers free next day delivery for any last-minute gifts. Alternatively, Skintopia - a series of stunning scientifically-based skin treatment salons in both Auckland and Wellington - offers a relaxing 60-minute massage to target those aches and pains.
