Mother’s Day is one of the biggest selling opportunities of the year for retailers with Australians spending more than $730 million on gifts.
However, recent research shows that a staggering number of presents are unwanted and $148 million worth of gift cards are unused. Koh Living wants to change this mindset and the way we think about gift giving.
Every item in the company’s collections has a story behind it and each has been designed with purpose, says co-founder, Tui Cordemans.
“Giving personalised gifts with sentiment and meaning is a way to strengthen relationships between family and friends,” she explains.
“It shows how much you appreciate them, boosts their self-value and sense of belonging, and reinforces your bond. That’s why we’ve created products that matter.”
In a world that is increasingly disconnected, it is important to give gifts that show intent. Here are Cordemans’ top five ways to buy a gift that shows you care and doesn’t end up at the back of the cupboard or thrown in the rubbish.
1 Find what matters most
People surround themselves with objects that bring them joy and reflect their personality. If mum owns cookbooks, perhaps she enjoys bringing loved ones together around the table. An abundance of house plants might reflect a connection to the outdoors. Wall art could display her favourite colours, her preferred themes, a favourite artist or style. Perhaps the used candle on her bedside table indicates mindfulness. Take note of things in her house and what they say about her values. This will give you a good indication of what type of gift will resonate the most.
2 How does she spend her spare time?
What spare time? Mums are multitaskers, always on the go. This makes her down time all the more important―how she chooses to spend those hours will give you insight into her values. Perhaps she focuses on her inner self with meditation and yoga, or maybe she chooses to hit the gym for health and fitness. Does she unwind by switching off and watching a movie, or going out with her friends? This information is useful when choosing a gift that adds value to her lifestyle.
3 Represent your relationship
Gift giving is one of the five love languages and speaks volumes about emotional connection and loving relationships. One of the most meaningful gifts is to choose something that characterises your relationship with your mum. This could centre on ideas or hobbies you share, reflect how you connect with her, or be matching items that you can each cherish.
4 It’s the thought that counts
This phrase couldn’t be more destructive to meaningful gift giving. It implies that giving any gift, even if it isn’t liked or enjoyed, is okay. Hold yourself to a higher standard this Mother’s Day and give a considered, insightful gift that shows your mum she is loved and understood. Koh Living focuses on beautiful gifts that are sure to increase her sense of belonging and appreciation.
5 The aspirational gift
For the mum who dreams big or little, knowing her aspirations for herself and her life is a sure way to give a gift that matters. Identify an area of her life that she is working on and seek a gift that will lift her up and help her reach her goals.
