Mother's Day is a time to honour and celebrate the incredible love and dedication of mothers everywhere. Being a single mum, I know that there are times when we have to spend this special day alone. But that is no reason to slump on the sofa all day and wallow in sadness.
Take this time to pamper and nurture yourself despite your children's absence. Do the things you’ve been wanting to do but didn’t have the time to do. It can be enjoying your morning coffee peacefully or taking a long bubble bath with scented candles all around—do it, Mama!
If you can’t think of anything or if you have to watch what you spend, we got you! Here are 10 affordable Mother's Day ideas tailored for lonely single mums to help you find comfort, connection, and joy on this special day, as voted by the Beanstalk Single Mum Vine Community.
1. Brunch at a local cafe
For me, the worst part of celebrating Mother's Day alone is the meals. Do you know what will lighten your mood? Eating out at a local cafe or restaurant. It's Mother's Day, so for once, do not stress about cooking or preparing meals. Plus, you get to enjoy a peaceful brunch without worrying about washing dishes or arguing with your kids to finish their food. You can even invite fellow mums who are also spending the day alone. It will be like a mini get-together for single mamas!
2. Nature walk and picnic
If you feel too cramped at home, here’s a Mother’s Day idea that will not cost a penny - go on an outdoor adventure.
You can pack a simple lunch, grab your blanket, and enjoy the beauty of nature by doing a short hike and ending it with a picnic. I do this not only when I’m alone on Mother’s Day but whenever I need to take a breather from everything. I go to a nearby park with my favourite novel and read it while soaking up the sunshine and fresh air.
If you are a camper gal, you can pack your tent and go camping, too!
3. Connect with other single mums
If you don’t like being alone on Mother’s Day, you can contact fellow single mums in your community and plan a get-together or support group meeting. You can host the meeting in your home; there is no need to plan elaborately. These days, you can easily organise gatherings by sending invites through social media. You can talk over coffee and snacks together, or you can do a potluck and ask your friends to bring food for lunch or dinner.
If you have single mum friends from far away, you can also include them via video conferencing. Building a support network of like-minded women can provide invaluable comfort and encouragement, reminding you that you're not alone on this special day.
4. Engage in creative expression
A few years ago, I had to spend Mother’s Day alone. I thought long and hard about what I really wanted to do. Then, I remembered how I used to draw before I had kids. So I brought out my old sketchpad and a set of pencils. I found a spot in the nearest park and started doodling. I didn't realise how much I missed doing it! It was like time flew, and the day just passed by.
You, too, can revisit an old hobby. Whether you are a frustrated musician, dancer, or painter, you can spend this day expressing yourself and channelling your emotions.
5. Volunteer work
This is one of my favourite Mother’s Day ideas. Nothing makes my heart fuller than giving back to a cause that I care about. Volunteering in our community’s soup kitchen replaces loneliness from my kids’ absence with happiness and fulfilment.
I’m sure you can find yours too. Whether it’s participating in a beach clean-up or helping out at an animal shelter, giving your time and energy to help others can be incredibly rewarding. It will not only take your mind off being alone, but it will also give you a sense of purpose.
Affordable Mother’s Day ideas for lonely single mums (cont.)
6. Garden therapy
What about Mother's Day ideas for green thumb mums? I got you!
If you are into gardening, you have probably thought of this already. Spend the day tending to your green babies. You can also add a new set of flowers or even start a vegetable or herb garden.
If you don't have a space for this, you can create a small indoor garden. I, too, have a mini garden on my balcony. For me, gardening is a therapeutic and grounding hobby that allows me to nurture new life. Who knows, watching the tiny buds bloom into colourful flowers might also give you a sense of accomplishment!
7. Create a vision board
Last on my list of budget-friendly Mother's Day ideas - creating a vision board.
If creating a scrapbook is not enough for you, this will do the trick.
A vision board is where you visualise your future. Start by gathering magazines and photos. Put them together into images and words that inspire you and create a visual representation of your dreams and life goals. Hang your vision board someplace where you'll see it every day as a reminder and as a source of inspiration for when things get tough. You can also show your kids what you have accomplished! I'm sure they'll be proud of you.
8. Journaling/Create a memory book
Scrapbooking mamas, I know you haven't had time to do it lately. So take this opportunity to revive your old hobby and start scrapbooking again.
These days, we rarely see actual photo albums as everything is uploaded online. But nothing beats the sentimental value brought by these real-life mementos. Gather old pictures and other keepsakes that hold special meaning in your heart and memories of your journey as a mother. Then, compile them into a beautiful scrapbook or memory book.
If you love writing down your thoughts like me, grab a notebook and pen and spend Mother's Day pouring out your thoughts and feelings onto the pages. I suggest doing it in a quiet space where you can reflect on your parenting journey, acknowledge your strengths, and set intentions for the future. It can be at home or at your favourite coffee shop, as long as you are comfortable.
9. Create a self-care sanctuary at home
The house might feel empty at first, but look at the bright side: you have it all to yourself! You can plan a special self-care day.
Start the day with a healthy breakfast (remember, nourishment is self-care, too). Then, you can do some yoga. After meditating, you can enjoy a long, relaxing bubble bath. You can even light candles and play soothing music without any distractions. Surround yourself with things that bring you joy and comfort, creating a peaceful oasis where you can relax and recharge.
10. DIY spa day
No budget for a spa day? Not a problem! Who says you need to go to a spa to pamper yourself? You can find everything you need right in your home! You can take a luxurious bath, do your nails, and indulge in some much-needed self-care without breaking the bank.
Thanks to video streaming platforms, you can now easily find DIY beauty treatments and relaxation techniques online. I love watching videos about creating homemade face masks, body scrubs, and aromatherapy oils. What’s great about them is that you can use natural ingredients from your kitchen. And they surprisingly work wonders!
Summary: 10 Affordable Mother’s Day Ideas
On Mother's Day, it's important to honour and celebrate your motherhood journey, regardless of your circumstances. I understand how challenging it is to be apart from your children on this day. But focusing on self-care and finding moments of joy and connection can help you get through loneliness. As the saying goes, "Look at the bright side!"
Now you have one whole day of "Me time!" Use these Mother's Day ideas to relax or accomplish things you've always wanted to do.
With our busy schedules, I know that we rarely see our own mothers. So, if your mum is still around, you can also take this opportunity to spend quality time with her. Cook a special meal that you can share, or you can take a walk in the park with her. I’m sure she will have fun no matter what you decide to do.
Finally, remember that you are a strong and resilient mother, deserving of love, appreciation, and celebration, not just on this special day but every day. So chin up, Mama! There’s no reason to fret! Besides, it is YOUR day. Have fun and Happy Mother’s Day!
