Ways to show mom some love this Mother’s Day from a safe distance

Mother’s Day 2020: gift ideas, flower shops, takeout brunch options and more to consider

Lowe’s to deliver Mother’s Day flower baskets to senior housing facilities amid coronavirus pandemic

While Mother’s Day will look a little different this year amid the coronavirus outbreak. There are still plenty of ways to make the day special for a mom in your life.

Across metro Atlanta, folks are planning creative celebrations for their moms ahead of Mother’s Day, which is Sunday, May 10.

If you need some inspiration, here are some ways to celebrate Mother’s Day this year.

What are some ways to celebrate Mother’s Day from a safe distance?

  • Send mom a playlist: You can always put together a playlist on Spotify of your mom's favorite tunes to send her way in honor of Mother's Day. It's a safe way to show some love from afar.
  • Watch a digital concert together on video chat: On Sunday, Babyface will livestream a concert on Instagram. You can watch with your mom or find another digital concert to stream together.
  • Order her some of her favorite reading materials: Amid the coronavirus outbreak, local bookstores in Atlanta are offering contact-free delivery. If your mom lives in the area, you can support local business while also giving your mom something to do while staying home.
  • Watch a movie together: Netflix Party, a Google Chrome extension, lets you watch the same movie at the same time with someone in another place. You can set up a movie night with your mom on Sunday.
  • Host a virtual happy hour: If you want to cheers to a mom in your life, a virtual happy hour may be the way to go. Before you dive in, check out some tips for a successful event here.
  • Stop by to do some chores: If you live close to your mom, or want to do something nice for a mother in your life, you can always stop by and do some yard work or other outdoor chores from a safe distance, while practicing proper safety measures, of course.

Is it safe to order flowers for mom?

While some safety measures should be adhered to, sending flowers to mom should be OK. The AJC's Nancy Clanton reports that if your mom has received other types of deliveries, getting flowers should be fine also.

“Sending your mom flowers has no more risk than if you send her gifts from an online retailer or have a nice meal from a restaurant delivered,” Brian Labus, a professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas’ School of Public Health, told Huffpost. “The risk from any delivery comes from the contact with the person making the delivery.”

Experts suggest that after contactless delivery, your mom should arrange the flowers in a vase and then wash her hands. After that, don't touch them for a couple of hours.

Where can you order flowers and plants in metro Atlanta?
Depending on what sort of flower or plant you are looking for, you have some options. Plant stores and nurseries across the city are offering delivery or curbside pickup amid the pandemic. You can see a list of options here.

Or, for a traditional bouquet of flowers, check out these locally owned flower stores. While most are closed for in-person shopping, they are offering delivery or pickup options — before placing your order, you may want to call the store to confirm their delivery options.

What are some gift ideas for Mother’s Day 2020?

Looking to send mom something special? Check out the AJC's gift guide for some inspiration. From accessories that she can rock around the house to personalized journals, there's a little something for everyone. See 11 gift ideas here.

Are local restaurants offering takeout for Mother’s Day?

Definitely. The AJC's dining team has you covered on takeout specials happening across the city in honor of mom's special day. While Mother's Day brunch, usually a staple for families and the restaurant industry alike, will not look the same this year, there are still some options for toasting to the occasion.

Many Atlanta eateries have created fun and interesting Mother's Day takeout options, the AJC's Henri Hollis reports. See the full list here.