Mother's Day: how to celebrate all the maternal figures in our lives?

What if this year, we expanded Mother's Day to include all the maternal figures around us? What if we paid tribute to all the women who have shaped our life journey? This is a call to celebrate those who raised us, supported us, and understood us. Whether they embody comfort, strength, attentiveness, or gentleness, discover our ideas for symbolic gifts to say thank you.

Who are the maternal figures we want to celebrate?

Of course, the figure of the mother is the first one that comes to mind. You may be fortunate enough to have a loving mother who raised you with great tenderness. Let us also spare a thought for those for whom this day is more difficult: those who never knew that love, those who have lost that bond, or whose mother is no longer here.

But whether or not we still have our mother with us, the maternal figure takes many different forms throughout life. These are the women who guide us in early childhood, accompany us on our educational journey, or share in our cherished friendships.

There are also aunts, sisters, godmothers, grandmothers, adoptive mothers or mothers of the heart, and even mentors met at work. This list is unique to each person. They are all inspiring women, and it is them we would like to celebrate for Mother's Day.

6 ideas for symbolic gifts and rituals to honor them

These women offer us a beautiful lesson in sisterhood. When we become parents ourselves, we realize the impact of this kindness that is passed down from generation to generation.

How do you celebrate these very special bonds? Here are some inspirations for original Mother's Day gifts, focused on meaning and sharing:

• Create a memory journal: Fill it throughout the year with little notes, movie tickets, photos from your outings, and your best shared laughs.
• Establish a ritual for two: Plan an activity just for the two of you (a restaurant, an exhibition, a coffee date) on a regular basis.
• Give a personalized photo album: A beautiful object to leaf through, annotated with your shared memories. (Décor tip: slip in a lovely photo from each new occasion!)
• Write a gratitude letter: Put your admiration and appreciation down on paper. It is often the most touching gift of all.
• Plant a tree or a houseplant: A living, lasting symbol of your bond.
• Give a meaningful book: A beautiful book or exhibition catalogue, personalized with a handwritten dedication inside.

Taking care of those for whom Mother's Day is difficult

Let us remember that for some, this time of year is synonymous with pain or sadness. If someone close to you is not in the mood to celebrate, it may be the perfect opportunity to suggest an outing that has nothing to do with motherhood, to help take their mind off things.

In closing, sisterhood and maternal love — biological or not — deserve our daily attention. What if we gave ourselves an ocean of love and gratitude all year long?