Last-Minute Mother's Day Gift Guide

It’s the day before Mother’s Day, and you’re still in a quandary over what to get the mom in your life. Sure, cards and flowers are always welcome, but with a little imagination, you can treat her to a wonderful day without having to leave the city limits. Here are some ideas:

Play a round with her

Golf is no longer a man-only sport; more and more women enjoy the game, too. If your mom is one of them, spend the morning or afternoon golfing with her. Not surprisingly, golf course operators will tell you Mother’s Day is a slow day for them, so you’re sure to get right in. The Cosumnes Community Services District’s Emerald Lakes Golf Course is open Sunday. Play a quick game of nine holes for $17.50 per person (walking), or play 18 for $27 per person.

Wine and dine her

OK, so maybe golfing is not her game, but a good glass of wine is. The McConnell Estates Winery’s tasting room is open Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Better yet, why not pick up some lunch fixings at the Nugget, throw them in a picnic basket (or your favorite reusable shopping bag), and make an afternoon of it.

Pamper her

A mom works hard for her family, and saves little pampering for herself. Why not show your gratitude tomorrow with a little R&R? Elk Grove has no shortage of salons and spas, so there’s really no excuse.  is offering a Mother’s Day special: For $25 you can get her a shampoo, cut and style. Nearby is The Comfort Zone, which describes itself as “A Vacation In An Hour.” That vacation will run you $60, or $35 for a 30-minute massage. Treat her to both the massage and the style and you’re sure to be her favorite.

Craft it up

Is the mom on your list crafty? Perhaps the best gift you can give her is a gift you made yourself. If she has small children, put them to work.  offers a plethora of beads and supplies to bling her out on Mother’s Day. If the crafters creating the gifts are young, you may want to keep things simple with a seed bead bracelet. No experience creating jewelry? Not to worry. The ladies at BeadWare say they’re happy to help; just tell them what you have in mind and what your budget is. Prices will depend on the beads you choose, but expect your creations to start at $10.

Accessorize her

Many men are flat-out afraid of purchasing clothing for women. Accessories are a great solution. Lisa Loopesko of  says gift certificates, purses, hats and jewelry are very popular right now. This Old Town shop also carries Miche designer diaper bags, a gift a new mom or mom-to-be will surely appreciate.

Make it a Girl’s Night Out

Is the mom on your list your BFF? Why not invite her to join you at Comedy Under the Stars (sans kids)? Held on June 10 at the Laguna Town Hall Ampitheater, this comedy show is coming to Elk Grove compliments of Sacramento’s Laughs Unlimited. The show is one night only, from 4 to 10 p.m. Advance tickets are $10 through the CSD—reasonable enough to pair with a promise of dinner beforehand.