How much will you be spending on Mother’s Day gifts?

Get ready to open your wallet. Spending on Mother’s Day gifts is increasing this year. With the average American likely spring around $120 (per RetailMeNot), it seems that mom might have a table full of gifts this year. While that 20% increase might not seem gigantic, it does show an overall gifting trend. Still, what does mom really want this year?

It goes without saying that last year’s Mother’s Day celebration might have been a little subdued. Instead of the traditional gatherings, the event was smaller. As people re-emerge from their seclusion, this year’s celebration might make be more important than ever.

Even though the study’s findings show that more than half of people are looking to celebrate at home, the reality is that mom deserves her moment to be honored. In the past year, many moms have added to their to-do lists. It isn’t just that mom is caretaker, driver, nurturer, cook, driver and jack of all trades. That title came with school teacher, therapist and a variety of other job duties.

What should you buy with that increased spending on Mother’s Day gifts?

Flowers seem to be the most popular Mother’s Day gift with almost half of Americans purchasing that gift. In addition, gift cards, chocolate and beauty products round out top gifts. While mom will always appreciate the thought behind any gift, are these tokens of gratitude what she really wants?

Apparently, mom really wants a nice dinner. Maybe at the past year of spending even more time in the kitchen, she would prefer to have that beautiful food put on her plate. At the same time, mom doesn’t want to do the work to put that food on the plate or clean up the food that is served.

Whether that nice dinner is at her favorite restaurant, ordered in or cooking at home, the reality is that mom deserves more. Granted, she will appreciate the youngest child bringing her a bowl of cereal in the morning, but wouldn’t it be nicer if someone put in the effort and made brioche French Toast?

Even though spending on Mother’s Day gifts has increased, be thoughtful with those purchases. Mom probably has told you not to waste money. Make sure that her gift is thoughtful and what she wants this year.