By Okon Ekpenyong

The National Retail Federation (NRF) conducted its annual survey with Prosper Insights and Analytics, which shows that this year’s Mother’s Day weekend sales could reach $34.1 billion, surpassing last year’s $33.5 billion. Although this figure is still below the record $35.7 billion in sales from 2023, it shows a steady increase in consumer spending.

Online shopping has become the top choice for consumers looking for Mother’s Day gifts, surpassing traditional options like department stores, specialty shops, and local businesses. “The annual survey was conducted between March 31 and April 7, involving 7,948 adults across the United States. It has a margin of error of just 1.1 percentage points,” the NRF website says.

Gift Ideas and Trends:

The annual survey also reveals that consumers may spend up to $259.04 per person to celebrate Mother’s Day this year, a $5 increase from last year. Flowers are the most popular gift; others include greeting cards and special outings. Flower sales top the list, generating around $3.2 billion in consumer spending, while greeting cards could surpass the anticipated $1.1 billion mark.

Alternative trending gift categories include jewelry, unique experiences, and gift cards, with anticipated spending hitting $6.8 billion, $6.3 billion, and $3.5 billion, respectively. Shoppers value thoughtful presents, 48% expressing a desire to discover something distinctive or unusual and 42% seeking gifts that foster special memories.

Celebrating Mother’s Day in Central Ohio:

For those in Central Ohio, there are many ways to celebrate Mother’s Day. Consider treating mom to a special brunch at one of the many local restaurants, such as The Avenue Steak Tavern, The Barn at Rocky Fork Creek, or Budd Dairy Co. Food Hall. Alternatively, plan a picnic in one of the picturesque Central Ohio Metro Parks or take a cooking class together.

Other ideas include discovering mom’s musical interests and checking for upcoming acts in town or planning a nature hike or museum visit. Gift cards to local spas or a home spa day are also great options. Whatever the plan, spending quality time with Mom is sure to make the day special.

Mother’s Day Brunch Options in Columbus:

Some popular Mother’s Day brunch options in Columbus include, according to 10TV WBNS :

1. The Avenue Steak Tavern (Dublin and Grandview locations)

2. The Barn at Rocky Fork Creek (Gahanna)

3. The Berwick (Columbus)

4. Blacklick Golf Course (Reynoldsburg)

5. Budd Dairy Co. Food Hall (Columbus)

6. Cameron’s American Bistro (Worthington)

7. Cap City Fine Diner and Bar (Dublin, Gahanna, and Grandview locations)

8. Fawcett Center (Columbus)

9. FYR (Columbus)

10. Hudson 29 Kitchen + Drink (New Albany and Upper Arlington locations)

11. Martini Modern Italian (Columbus)

12. Mitchell’s Ocean Club (Easton Town Center, Columbus)

13. The Pearl (Dublin and Short North locations)

Making it Special:

As Katherine Cullen, NRF Vice President of Industry and Consumer Insights, notes, “Even in the face of economic uncertainty, consumers continue to celebrate the special women in their lives with gifts and outings.” You can make this Mother’s Day one to remember by thinking out of the box and keeping it original.

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