The best gifts for every budget

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Mother’s Day is coming up fast, and if you’re still stuck wondering what to get the woman who raised you, don’t overthink it. The best gifts aren’t always the flashiest or most expensive – they’re the ones that say, “I know you, I appreciate you, and I put real thought into this.”

To make it easier, we’ve broken down gift ideas by budget- whether you’re working with under R300, mid-range spending, or ready to splurge. Take a look…

Under R300: Thoughtful doesn’t have to be expensive

If you’re on a tight budget, you can still make Mom feel special without going generic. A little creativity goes a long way here.

1. A personal touch
Personalised mugs, keyrings, or small keepsakes with her name, a photo, or a sweet message can go a long way. NetFlorist offers local customisation options that are affordable and fast.

2. DIY pamper kit
Put together a small spa bundle with a face mask, bath bomb, and scented candle – easy to find at Clicks, Dis-Chem, or The Body Shop. Wrap it nicely, add a handwritten card, and you’ve got a gift that looks more expensive than it is.

3. Green gifts
A little potted plant or succulent in a cute pot is low maintenance and adds life to any space. Local stores and garden centres across the country have great options under R250.

4. Words that matter
Never underestimate the power of words. A jar filled with “reasons I love you” notes, or a heartfelt letter, costs next to nothing but delivers maximum impact.

R300–R1000: Solid, stylish, and practical gifts

If you’ve got a bit more to spend, you can get her something polished, useful, and still personal.

1. Custom photo gifts
Put your memories to work with a high-quality photo book or framed collage. Many online photo shops make it easy to turn digital clutter into something she’ll keep forever.

2. Spa or massage voucher
She deserves a break. Book her a massage, facial, or full spa treatment. Many have Mother’s Day specials around this time of year.

3. Curated gift boxes
Artisanal boxes packed with gourmet snacks, bath products, and local goodies are a safe and thoughtful choice.

4. Kitchen tools that work
If she enjoys cooking, a quality pan, casserole dish, or even a new baking set from Yuppiechef or @home makes for a gift she’ll actually use – without it feeling like a chore.

R1000 and up: For the ultimate spoil

Ready to pull out all the stops? Here are the gifts that really say “You deserve it all.”

1. Jewellery that means something
A personalised bracelet with her children’s names, a birthstone necklace, or locally made fine jewellery makes a lasting statement.

2. Luxe comfort
A high-quality robe and slippers set from Poetry or Woolworths turns everyday downtime into a mini retreat. Soft, beautiful, and indulgent.

3. A Kindle for the book lover
If she reads a lot – or says she wants to – this is a game-changer. The Kindle Paperwhite is lightweight, glare-free, perfect for an avid reader. Add a voucher for a few books and you’ve nailed it.

4. Experience over stuff
Sometimes the best gift is time away. A night at a wine estate, a weekend in the Drakensberg, or even a high tea experience can give her what she wants most: a real break.