Mother-in-Law Day: Gift Ideas for a Daughter-in-Law

Mother-in-Law Day is October 28. Frankly, I have never heard of this holiday before as it is only 5 years old. It was very likely made up by the people at Hallmark and falls on the fourth Sunday in October. Mother-in-Law day gifts are typically along the same level as Valentines Day with cards and candy being good gifts, but expensive jewelry never being turned down. I do like the idea of a Mother-in-Law Day however because it means that I do not have to pay homage to my Mother-in-Law on mothers day when I would like my family to pay all homage to me. Another reason I love Mother-in-Law day is that there is no way she can assume that YOU did not give the gift. I know mine always thinks the gifts I purchase her were her son's idea. In addition, if your relationship with your Mother-in-Law needs a little work, why not surprise her with a gift on a holiday that she may not know exists. Of course, once you do celebrate Mother-in-Laws day you need to be prepared to continue the tradition year after year.

Here are some ideas of gifts a Daughter-in-Law can give to her Mother-in-Law

T-shirt or trinket: For a small budget, sentimental gift, you can purchase or even design a T-shirt or wall plaque for your mother in law with a sentimental but fun saying. For example, Café press is selling T-shirts and trinkets that say, "It's not easy being the world's greatest mother in-law". You can also make up a more personal saying and have it printed on a T-shirts, mug, calendar, poster, stationary or any other item that Café Press Sells.

Homemade gift ideas: If your budget is small, but your heart is big, consider making your mother in law a gift. I am going to preface this by saying, if you have a troubled relationship with your mother in law, you need to be very good at the craft you are doing for your mother in law. A crooked Afghan from a daughter-in-law she is battling would be an insult to a critical mother in law. However, a beautiful, flawless scarf may bring tears to her eyes. Other ideas for homemade gifts for your mother-in-law are scrapbooks, artwork, and beautiful bookmarks.

Spa gift certificates: What woman wouldn't like a little pampering? Spa gift certificates can fit into any budget. If you can only spend $20.00, then purchase a pedicure. If you can spend $200.00 then purchase a full day treatment. If you want to create a bonding experience, you may even want to purchase a spa weekend for the two of you.

Send Flowers: If you are sending your mother-in-law a gift across the miles, flowers are a good idea. Do not be cheap about it. Try to spend $100.00 for something that is going to scream, "I love you" even if you really want to scream something else.

Did Someone Say Jewelry? This is a gift for someone with a generous budget because cheap jewelry in rarely appreciated. If you have paid attention to the jewelry, your mother-in-law wears then you can determine her taste. Do not purchase something you would love to wear, but something that coordinates with what she already has. If you have never seen her wear jewelry besides her wedding rings, then purchase a broach with diamonds or pearls.