Chantelle Henderson

Mother’s Day is the one day of the year that is specially dedicated to celebrating all of the wonderful things our mums have done for us over the years, and it’s our annual reminder to express our love and appreciation by saying “thank you”.

However, following a survey we conducted in the shopping centre, nowadays it’s just not good enough to give a box of chocolates and a card. These types of gifts can be interpreted, often rightfully so, as last-minute buys that have been bought ‘just because you had to’.

We asked 200 mothers who were shopping in the Waterside “what makes the perfect Mother’s Day gift?” and over 80% suggested a gift with more thought behind it, such as jewellery or a pamper session, would be preferred in comparison to the generic box of chocolates.

This is because most said it showed that time and effort had been spent thinking about what they would like and appreciate.

As Mother’s Day fast approaches, it’s understandable if panic may be beginning to set in because there isn’t much time left to plan a thoughtful and memorable gift.

To help, I’ve compiled a couple of ideas that, judging from our research, are sure to make your mum smile this Mother’s Day.

Cook her dinner

How many times have you come home to a lovely hot dinner prepared by your mum? Why not surprise her by cooking her favourite meal? Not only will she appreciate the effort you’ve put in, but she’ll also love that you’ve thought about what she likes to eat!

Cheat Sheet:
Head to Next to decorate the dining room with fancy tableware to really make it really special. You can pick up a stylish dinner set from £30, tablecloths from £16 and artificial flowers from £10.

Give her the night off

Our mums work hard to make us happy, so treat her to a pamper basket complete with bubble bath, candles and her favourite beauty products so she can truly relax and recharge.

Cheat Sheet:
The Body Shop has an array of pampering skincare products in a whole range of different scents – we love the Moringa collection. Stop by Next to pick up beautiful smelling candles like sweet jasmine from just £3.50 and finally treat her to some new comfy loungewear like a new cosy dressing gown from H&M.

Take her for a day out

Why not dedicate a full day to spending time with your mum? One fun option could be to treat her to lunch and a shopping spree – especially with there being loads of great items in stores right now.

Cheat Sheet:
Bring your mum along to our ‘To Fit or Not To Fit’ event on March 14 at the Waterside for a chance for both of you to win a free pair of shoes and to take advantage of the Mother’s Day sales that some of our retailers have on.

Find a gift she’ll love

If you’re short on time or don’t live close to your mum, think about buying a present that you know she will like. For example, treat her to her favourite designer fragrance or a piece of jewellery that reflects her style and taste.

Cheat Sheet:
The Fragrance Shop currently has up to 50% off selected perfumes until  March 15, or speak to the team at Goldsmiths who will be happy to find you the perfect gift in your price range.

Above all, Mother’s Day is a chance to really show your mum how much you care, so take the time to think about what will really make her smile. If you need a bit more inspiration, stop in at the Waterside and have a chat with the staff working for any of our retailers who are always ready and willing to help.

Time to sparkle: It’s the office party tonight, but before you can start drinking copious amounts of wine at your boss’ expense, you have to get through a whole eight hours at the office. Here’s a few simple steps on how to go from desk to dance floor in seconds.

Invest in one key piece of Christmas sparkle

Rachael Smith from Topshop has 12 years of industry experience and has seen hundreds of trends come and go.

She said: “The key to any successful outfit is to remember that less is more. As tempting as it might be to embrace sequins, metallic, furs and lace, wearing all these trends together means you can run the risk of looking like a Christmas tree.

“My advice would be to pick one glitzy item — whether this is a sequined jacket, a pair of studded heels or a leather skirt — to inject some Christmas sparkle in your outfit.”

Black skinny jeans are a must

Julie from New Look highlights how you can’t go wrong with a pair of black skinny jeans.

“Having catapulted off the runways into every woman’s wardrobe – the skinny black jeans can be easily transformed from day to night. Simply add a sparkly jacket, a pair of heels and a clutch bag and you are away. If you really don’t have much time before the party – why not add a collar necklace to channel effortless glamour.”

Bold eye make-up

Jo Welbourn, from The Body Shop, says although the sparkly dress is the party essential, glamorous eyes will add depth to your ensemble.

To look salon perfect in minutes, follow these few steps:

• Apply primer, which really is a girl’s best friend, to your face. Then follow with a layer of foundation and set with pressed powder. This should ensure that your make up lasts as long as you do! Add blusher or bronzer to accentuate your cheek bones.
• Give your eyes a bold make over! Take a few minutes to build the look and blend the darker, smokey shades at the corners of your eyes.
• Team with neutral shades of nude lippy and blusher.
• Liberally apply glitter sparkle on your hair, skin or clothes – perfect for hitting the dance floor!

Top up the tan

For those who need the last few finishing touches, Becky McConnell from Define, on the lower ground floor, will make sure your skin is glowing!

Famed for its use at the MOBOs, in the latest Bond film Skyfall and on Strictly Come Dancing, Becky uses Sienna X products. Especially for the Christmas season, she has introduced the “Tonight’s The Night Tan”. It takes less than 30 minutes to do and within two hours will give you a beautiful looking tan. Booking is essential. For £25 this is a bargain and will leave you looking like a bronzed beauty – standing out from the crowd at your Christmas party.

Fragrance is a must

Make sure you smell amazing!

“Fragrance is so often forgotten,” said Vicky Storey from the Fragrance Shop, “When in fact, it is a must have on a night out.

“Opt for an eau du parfum, which has a h2er concentrate than eau du toilette. Luxury fragrances e.g. Gucci, Chanel, Hugo Boss, also have a h2er concentrate, so you don’t have to use the whole bottle!

“Also, make sure you take some perfume out with you for touch ups. Why not invest in a Travalo — the pocket-sized refillable perfume bottle the size of a lipstick — so perfect for a night out.”