Consumers are more aware of Mother’s Day—what are we buying?

Celebrating Mother’s Day might be a little different this year—a nice meal at home, takeout from a favorite local haunt, or a scheduled video call for unwrapping gifts—but celebrating moms is more on people’s minds than ever.

In fact, one in three people are more aware of the upcoming holiday, according to a study conducted by leading buy now, pay later solution Affirm.

The new report reveals how consumers are planning to shop for Mother’s Day this year, the growing sentiment surrounding moms, and the new celebration norms.

Nearly twice as many people are planning to spend more on their gift this year as opposed to spending less.

Seventy-five percent of people want to buy a gift to show their appreciation, with flowers being the most popular category to be purchased, followed by accessories and clothing.

Other key insights include:

Family is top of mind

• Over 50 percent of Americans surveyed are talking to their mom daily; and 3 times as many Americans say they are talking to their moms more frequently right now as opposed to those who are talking to their moms less frequently.
• The survey revealed that 26 percent of respondents are more aware of Mother’s Day this year because they’re with their family and of those with their family, 40 percent are over the age of 22.
• 25 percent of respondents said they’re more aware of Mother’s Day this year because they miss their family.

Physical gifts are trending up

• Whether for mom, a partner, or another loved one, 60 percent of Americans plan to shop for a physical Mother’s Day gift this year.
• 40 percent of people are spending between $20 and $50 this year.
• Nearly a third of respondents say they’ll spend between $50 and $150, and 20 percent plan to spend over $150.

What people are buying

• The top five gift categories are: flowers (28 percent), accessories (17 percent), clothing (10.5 percent), home decor (10 percent), and beauty (10 percent).
• Top accessories to be purchased for moms include jewelry (45 percent), a handbag or purse (20.5 percent), and sunglasses (7 percent).
• Top clothing items to be purchased for moms include a top or sweater (32 percent), shoes (25 percent), and pajamas (13 percent).
• Top cookware to be purchased for moms include a coffee maker (29 percent), a slow cooker (22 percent), and a blender or food processor (12 percent).

Afternoon is the time to celebrate (virtually)

• 30 percent of people will be celebrating Mother’s Day virtually this year.
• Of those celebrating virtually, early afternoon (12-4 pm) is the top time slot for a phone or video call (44 percent of people).
• The next best time to celebrate from afar is before Noon (34 percent of people), and then 4-8 pm (18 percent of people).