As we approach Mother’s Day on May 11, churches across the nation are gearing up for one of their busiest Sundays of the year. According to a recent study by Lifeway Research, Mother’s Day ranks as the third highest-attendance day for U.S. Protestant churches, following Easter and Christmas. This year, a remarkable 51% of pastors anticipate a surge in attendance as families gather to honor the mothers in their lives.
While congregations will be filling pews, the retail world is also buzzing with excitement. The National Retail Federation (NRF) projects that spending for Mother’s Day will rise from $33.5 billion last year to an estimated $34.1 billion this year. This increase reflects a deep-rooted tradition of celebrating mothers, with 84% of adults planning to spend an average of $259.04 on gifts and celebrations.
A closer look at spending trends reveals that flowers are the most sought-after gift, with 74% of consumers opting for a beautiful bouquet. Greeting cards are a close second, with 73% of shoppers planning to express their love through heartfelt messages. Special outings, like brunch or dinner, remain popular choices as well, emphasizing the importance of creating lasting memories with mom.
Interestingly, jewelry leads the spending categories, with an expected $6.8 billion set aside for sparkling gifts. The data also shows that consumers will spend about $3.2 billion on flowers, $1.1 billion on greeting cards, and $6.3 billion on outings. Gift cards are another favorite, with an anticipated expenditure of $3.5 billion. Phil Rist, Executive Vice President of Strategy at Prosper Insights, suggests that many shoppers are looking for unique gifts that can create special memories, such as concert tickets or scenic picnics.
The NRF’s Vice President of Industry and Consumer Insights, Katherine Cullen, remarked, "Mother’s Day is an important holiday for many consumers, only surpassed by the winter holidays in terms of average spending." This sentiment resonates with many who appreciate the opportunity to express gratitude and love for the special women in their lives, even amid economic uncertainties.
As the big day approaches, it’s worth noting that online shopping is becoming increasingly popular, with 36% of consumers planning to purchase gifts online. Department stores (32%) and specialty shops (29%) also remain viable options, while 25% of shoppers are committed to supporting local businesses.
In the spirit of celebrating motherhood, churches will not only provide a place for worship but also serve as a community hub where families can come together to express their gratitude. As families gather in fellowship, they will have the opportunity to reflect on the invaluable role mothers play in their lives, both spiritually and emotionally.
This Mother’s Day, whether you’re attending church services, purchasing gifts, or simply spending quality time with your mom, take a moment to appreciate the love and sacrifices that mothers make every day. The celebration of Mother’s Day is not just about the gifts but also about cherishing the relationships that enrich our lives.
For more insights on Mother’s Day spending trends, check out the NRF’s official report on holiday data and trends.