Every year, Americans go all out for Mother’s Day, with spending reaching record highs. In 2024, total planned expenditures were expected to reach $33.5 billion, a steep increase from $20 billion in 2013.
While traditional gifts like jewelry and electronics remain popular, there’s a noticeable shift toward experience-based gifts. Instead of opting for material items, people are choosing experiences that create lasting memories, reinforcing the idea that experiences are more meaningful than physical presents.
The Shift Toward Meaningful Gifting
According to Statista, this is the average planned expenditure on Mother’s Day gifts per capita in the United States from 2013 to 2024, by category (in U.S. dollars).
Shopping behavior data shows that Jewelry remains as the leading expense, with an average planned expenditure of $53 per person in 2024. However, spending on special outings has been growing, with an average planned expenditure of $45 in 2024.
Experience-based gifts are gaining traction as people recognize the value of shared moments over possessions. In a survey done by Skift, a travel industry news site that provides market research to the travel industry, 92% of participants said they prefer receiving experiences over physical gifts. Attending an event or participating in an activity together fosters stronger connections and makes Mother’s Day unforgettable.
According to Cornell Chronicle, psychology professor Dr. Thomas Gilovich conducted a 20-year study comparing the emotional impact of buying material goods versus investing in experiences. His research found that experiences, such as trips or special activities, bring greater and longer-lasting happiness than purchasing physical items.
Miami: The Perfect City for Experiences
Miami is the perfect backdrop for experience-based gifts, offering a dynamic mix of luxury, relaxation, adventure, and creativity. Whether your mother prefers a fancy dinner, a creative workshop, or a day of fitness, there’s something in Miami to make her feel appreciated.
You can navigate through this map and find the best choice for you and your mom. Search for the events of your interest on Eventbrite. Here are some top picks:
- For a fancy celebration: The 5-Star Mother’s Day Dinner aboard Seafair Miami’s Iconic Megayacht provides a high-end experience with gourmet dining and breathtaking views.
- For a creative bonding moment: Maternar-te, a mug-making and poetry workshop, allows mothers and children to share a heartfelt artistic experience.
- For the active mom: The Mother’s Day Run 5K/10K/13.1 in Key Biscayne offers a great way to start the day with fitness and fun.
- For a serene escape: Luxe on the Water — A Mother’s Day Celebration combines yoga, mimosas, and relaxation aboard a luxury yacht.
Why Experiences Matter More Than Material Gifts
According to event organizer Ricardo Vieira, who has curated unique events in Miami for over five years, the city offers the perfect backdrop for creating lasting memories.
“Miami provides diverse options, from upscale dining to adventurous outings,” he said. “Gifting an experience means creating cherished moments that last far beyond the holiday.”
Experiences allow for quality time with loved ones, which makes them far more meaningful than material possessions. When you give your mom an experience, you’re giving her a memory, something that will live on long after the holiday is over.
In contrast, jewelry or electronics may soon be forgotten or replaced, while a shared adventure or event can be reminisced about for years to come.
The Power of Lasting Memories
This Mother’s Day, consider stepping away from the usual gift-giving routine and surprise your mom with an experience she’ll never forget. The memories created during events are much more valuable than the temporary joy of physical items.
With Miami’s vast array of experiences, there’s no shortage of ways to show your appreciation. Whether it’s an intimate workshop, a relaxing yoga session on a yacht, or a fitness-focused adventure, there’s an experience for every mother in Miami.
Go beyond the ordinary this Mother’s Day, and gift a moment she’ll treasure for years.
