Student life is all about budgeting, time management, and figuring out adulthood one load of laundry at a time.
But when Mother’s Day rolls around, most of us want to do something special for the woman who taught us how to do life in the first place. The good news? You don’t need to spend a fortune to make her feel appreciated.
Here are five affordable (but heartfelt) ways to celebrate your mom this Mother’s Day—even from your student apartment in Pretoria:
1. Write Her a Letter
When last did you actually write something by hand? A handwritten letter beats a rushed WhatsApp any day. Share your favourite memory, thank her for all the little things she’s done, and let her know you’re doing okay. Trust us, she’ll keep it forever.
2. Make a Memory Playlist
Create a Spotify playlist filled with songs that remind you of her—or ones you know she loves. Add voice notes between tracks for a personal touch. It’s free, thoughtful, and a lovely way to share time together, even if you’re far apart.
3. Host a Virtual Coffee Date
If you can’t be there in person, set a time to chat over a cup of tea or coffee (bonus points if you surprise her with a delivery from her favourite local café). Even 15 minutes of undivided attention can mean the world to her.
4. DIY Gifts That Feel Luxe
Get creative: bake her favourite cookies, make a photo collage from your camera roll, or repurpose a mason jar into a ‘Reasons I Love You’ jar filled with notes. It’s the personal effort that makes it meaningful—not the price tag.
5. Give Her the Day Off
If you’re close enough to visit, take over something she normally does—washing the dishes, cooking lunch, or running an errand. If you’re far, call your siblings or dad and help coordinate a plan that gives mom a bit of a break.
At the end of the day, Mother’s Day isn’t about the size of the gift, but the size of the love behind it. So even on a student budget, you can make her feel like the queen she is.
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