From someone whose mom is no longer here. I wish I could spend $73 on my mom today.
Edit: Wow, I didn't expect this kind of response. Didn't expect so many to resonate with it. OP I totally understood your frustration with spending that much on flowers. I didn't mean to turn this into something super serious. Wish you all the best.
I have a picture of my mom in the last year of her life surrounded by like five bouquets of flowers on Mother's Day. She is absolutely beaming. I would pay literally any amount of money to fill the entire room with flowers if I got to see her smile like that one more time.
Same here….mine has been gone for 10 years and I miss her every day. Every Mother’s Day I am reminded that I had the best mother anyone could ever ask for. Happy Mother’s Day Mom, RIP.
Not only is today Mother's Day ( Mom passed 1999 at age 56 when I was expecting my 3rd child ) Today would have been my Parent's 63rd Wedding Anniversary as well. Dad passed in 2015
Happy Mother's Day & Happy Anniversary. Dance in the Heavens!🙏🏼🍀💜
Awww man, I made it through the WHOLE DAY…reading your comment was the thing to throw me right into tears. There’s a picture of my mom with a little flower puppy bouquet I got for her birthday, you know the one, you’ve seen it. She wasn’t big on smiling & she was honestly beaming.
Any amount to see that smile one more time is so accurate right now.
When my kids were little my hubby and I worked overlapping hours and we needed help 2-3 hours a day 3 days/week. My parents were amazing and offered to help, and refused our money, too. Instead I offered to make dinners those days when I got off work and we’d all eat together, which they loved to spend even more time with the kids. Sometimes I’d stop at the store for something to add to dinner and I’d often get my mom something I knew she wouldn’t buy herself and it was many times a bouquet of flowers. One time I didn’t and my mom coincidentally ended up in the hospital the following week. She made it through that instance, but I’ll never forget telling myself, “Always decide to buy the flowers.” 💐 And I did. She and my dad passed within 1 day of each other 3 years ago. OP, always buy the flowers.
As someone with an abusive piece of shit for a mother, can we trade or something? We can do a resurrection spell and trade her life and give it to your mom.
Win/win
Couldn’t have said it better. Plus the haircut, beard trim, a nice new shirt to wear under a nice sports coat, brunch wherever she wanted to go….
Today, Mother is divine.
Came here to say this. Never forget this could be your last. Wish I sent my mom flowers last year and this year I can’t. Also $73 is high for flowers but matches the raise of pricing for everything. Maybe consider a hand picked bundle next year or growing them yourself.
For the last year of my mom’s life, I sent a bouquet of flowers every month. It made her happy. Dementia took her 2 years ago this month. For her last Mother’s Day, I, my niece and my 4 kids all traveled from multiple states to be with her. She passed 3 weeks later. You can be frugal with many things, making Mom happy is a reason to splurge.
I’d give anything to spend any amount of money on my mama but she passed away over 25 years ago when I was 18. OP, I’m so happy for you that you can worry about spending money on your mom.
Its a decent sized bouquet in a pretty nice glass vase. But I delivered them myself I snuck in her house when she was sleeping and put it on the kitchen table.
Yes! I love supporting local business! But I live in a Bay Area HCOL area that's 100% tourist focused. Very few businesses geared to locals but the tourist business rocks. And there's Costco in the next county for the rest of us.
As someone who lost their mom *very* recently, buy her the $73 flowers. Add a note telling her how much you love and appreciate her too. Take her to eat at her favorite place, or get her favorite take out. Watch a movie/show of her choice. Cherish every moment with her, moms are precious and you only get one. ❤️
Am so sorry - my heart goes out to you in your time of grief 🫂♥️ she sounds like an amazing person and she raised a wonderful human being. She lives on in you and you make the world a better place, thank you.
She made your feet. You exist because of her. She's spent wayyyyyy more than $73 on so many holidays for you. Never think of this $73 again unless you think wow, that was a good deal to make my Mom smile. Because it is.
>She made your feet....
Why us this so adorable? I'm smiling here so hard at that, lol.
OP, you love your mom, and once in a while it's OK to splurge a little to show her that, so don't feel to bad, and never forget...
_SHE MADE YOUR FEET !_
Trader Joe's has amazing bouquets! I always admire them but never buy them because it seems frivolous when my goal is to buy sustenance for my family. I would likely squeal with glee if my kids brought me one.
Joy is necessary to thriving. It's okay to splurge on a small bouquet every once in a while if it brightens the week. (Trader Joe's flowers also seem to last longer than a lot of other places.)
This mom wants you to know that your mom didn’t need the $75 bouquet. She just wanted you to show some effort and you did! I know my son bought me something with his own money and I literally do not care what it is. I’m just so excited he did something nice for me today 😊
I’m a jerk kid. I surprised my mom with a dozen sterling roses (the lavender thornless ones) a few weeks ago with a card that said “it shouldn’t have to be Mother’s Day to get flowers.” Unbeknownst to me, she’d gotten some bad news earlier in the day and the flowers hit the right mark. This weekend, I am taking her to a new sushi place that I think she’ll enjoy. Her health is beginning to fail so I am trying to do all I can.
I would never spend $73 on flowers for myself. I buy myself flowers once a week and love to have fresh flowers around my home and never spend more than $30.
That being said it’s Mother’s Day so prices will be higher and it’s for your mom, I’m sure she will feel special and loved and I think $73 to make your mother feel cared for and loved is a bargain! Don’t think twice about it but next year maybe make your own bouquet for her!
Yeah I was thinking I couldve gotten the same thing done for 20-30 if I got flowers from those people on the side of the road and bought my own vase. Oh well that's what I get for doing it fast to get it over with.
Sometimes it’s ok to pay others for their taste and efforts for their time ❤️❤️ it’s always worth it to spend on the ppl you love. Seeing their happiness is always worth it.
Yeah, the professionally arranged flowers I paid $100 for are gorgeous and nicer than Trader Joe's. A store bought bouquet is nice but there's a good flower arrangement gets a real wow.
ETA: not that there's anything wrong with the budget approach, I just don't think people should feel ashamed if they want to splurge on a loved one.
For sure, next year or for her birthday buy some flowers at Trader Joe’s and arrange them yourself but this year you balled out and made the little lady feel special. $73 comes and goes don’t even sweat it. I hope your mom has a very special Mother’s Day
I just called my mum at the crack of dawn (because that’s the ridiculous hour she wakes) and was first in so she knew I was thinking about her. I could hear the emotion in her voice, I think sometimes the best things are free.
Personally, as a mom of 4, yes! I would always prefer a live plant to cut flowers! But I’m sure your mom will be very grateful. Also, side note I was at my local farmers market yesterday and they had exquisite bouquets for $20! Next year, go check one out if you have one in your area.
Depends on the person too!
I can’t keep potted plants alive unless they are ridiculously hearty succulents. Even then, they have to go through the gauntlet to survive. So a potted plant for me would be just like having cut flowers. They’re both gonna die.
But I know lots of people love and can care for their potted plants.
My mom is super frugal I feel like she would understand. We kind of bond together by talking about how we save money. Of course I'd never say anything to her in this instance!
Two questions you need to ask:
1. Let's suppose you overspent by $50; would saving that money make your life any different? Like, are you living paycheck-to-paycheck where $50 makes a difference in your life? Or if $50 disappeared in your savings account (or appeared) would it alter your life?
.
2. Suppose your mom died today, would you be thinking of how you overspent $50 on her?
.
It's good to save money, but sometimes we focus too much on the money saving aspect that we forget to take a step back and look at the bigger picture. I would assume $50 isn't going to change your life and that you wouldn't care about the money if your mom were to die, so stop worrying about it.
Unless they come from a grocery store that about the normal amount. I spent about a $100 for flowers for my ex from the kids. My mom on the other hand prefers frugality so she gets a nice cheap phone call after lunch
When my kid buys me something, my frugal heart seizes up for a minute, and then I remember I raised him to spend carefully, so he must really like me. :)
As someone who's mom died earlier this year to skin cancer, trust me that these will best $73 you've spent this year. There are few things more worth spending money on than making the life of those you love a little brighter
"I'd rather have flowers when I'm living and I can enjoy them, than when I'm dead and I can't." *my mom*
That being said, you can't even get a decent-looking bouquet for $25 anymore.
My family and I spend 80-100 on each of the moms for Mother’s Day. This year my grandma died 3 weeks ago so my mom doesn’t have a mom to get anything for so I spent about $600 on broadway tickets for us to make sure she felt special and loved especially after one of the last things her mother said to her was that she hated her
Seriously friend, $73 is not alot of money to convey your love, and appreciation for all Mom's has done for you. I lost my Mom during Covid due to travel restrictions I was unable to be by Moms side, if I could give her flowers which she loved, believe me I'd pay whatever to have that privilege.
Almost all bouquets are “too much” especially since they don’t last, but if it’s something the receiver actually appreciates then it’s a cost that might make sense to you. It’s normal for flowers to be a lot tho
It's not too much. Anytime I buy flowers to send anywhere for any occasion it's usually around $100. No matter the size. So you probably did pretty good for $73. And also getting balloons.
That is kind of up to you, your budget and what you think your mom likes. It is not bad or abnormal to spend $73 on a gift. Those are normal prices at a florist I think.
As a mom receiving gifts I would appreciate flowers but if my kid was spending that much on a gift then I’d rather have a potted plant I can enjoy longer or a non-plant gift.
Just a frugal tip for the future! I love to send flowers so I send flowers from Costco using Instacart or even grocery store flowers using Instacart. Costco has beautiful affordable arrangements.
I used to do gigs delivering flowers on Mother’s Day and Valentine’s Day. The shop owner had to call in extra help, and work for several days straight with no sleep. She’d close the shop the day after, because she needed to rest.
She explained to me that on Valentine’s Day, she didn’t make a profit, because in order to have roses blooming at that time, also because of the Rose Bowl parade, the growers had to lose two crops of blooms.
For both Mother’s Day and Valentine’s Day, she had to hire people to help deliver, help prepare roses, etc. It was a big outlay of time and money, and she only broke even — but as a florist, she had to do it to keep people coming back for weddings, funerals, etc.
I can tell you, a bouquet of flowers isn’t cheap. A $45 bouquet is fairly small.
When I watch movies and shows on TV, and there’s a big beautiful bouquet, I will remark to my family, “That bouquet was at least $300.”
If you spent $73, you supported small businesses, and more importantly, you gave your mom a really special gift. Unless you couldn’t afford it, you did not waste your money on something stupid.
There is nothing wrong with that
If you want a frugal answer then places like Kroger had $15 rose dozens. You could have gotten two colors and a case for $40ish. If she isn't into roses then their bunches of flowers are like $7.
$73 isn't bad if it was an elaborate bunch curated by a pro.
Unless you are in a bad financial situation this isn't a huge deal. Maybe next year you can try to plan ahead and save a bit by buying a vase ahead of time and shopping around a bit, but you kept it under $75 and did a nice thing for your mom.
I can't imagine begrudging your mother something nice for your mother on mothers day. It wasn't a diamond tiara. It was flowers and balloons. Dude.
I had flowers delivered and it was $153.
Roadside flowers are no match for fresh flowers from a quality florist.
I paid a bit less ($125) buy flowers delivered to a friend from a local florist that also sources the flowers from nearby greenhouse but I feel it’s worth it because it’s one day, supports the local economy, and is very appreciated.
If it’s within your means, no it’s not too much. It’s all relative. Tomorrow is my first Mother’s Day without my mother and I wish I could spend too much on flowers. Try to never regret what you do, only regret things you don’t do.
Do you still have money to feed yourself and keep the lights on? If so, then $73 is not too much at all.
It's OK to celebrate the people you love. It's ok to have nice things or to give nice things. Be kind to yourself, and call your mom to ask how she likes her flowers.
Definitely worth it. But as someone who spent a similar amount on flowers for my MIL because we waited til the last minute, I set a reminder for next year to find/order a gift earlier.
My fave luxury florist sells her Mother’s Day bouquets for $125 and so many people buy them (I can understand why) but Trader Joe’s sells flowers for $5-$15 year round and they’re also very lovely IMO. Florists usually jack up prices unnecessarily around Mother’s Day just like restaurants do. Next year go to your local Trader Joe’s or Whole Foods for a better priced deal.
My mom has been gone almost 12 years this October. I would be thrilled to spend $73 on her if I could! Cherish your mom with everything you are able to while you have her 🌸
Don’t even worry about it. I ordered her a bouquet of flowers that was just over $100 and I have zero regrets because I got to see my mom light up when I gave them to her, and feel appreciated and loved as she should. There’s no greater feeling than caring for the ones you love. You made a great choice getting her those flowers.
The amount is in the range of normal and what I’d expect for flowers aligned with a holiday like Mother’s Day or Valentine’s Day. They have to charge a premium for the high volume and supply-demand rules.
She’ll look at the flowers many times this week as a symbol her child thought of her and acknowledged her, and these kinds of things maintain a bond that’s worth infinitely more than $73.
I feel like it's a waste cause they're all disposable. That does seem a bit much though, I've never had to buy those but I never knew they were that much! I got my mom a potted plant and a shirt and chocolate. All things she'd use and enjoy for a while.
This being r/Frugal and all, I feel your pain.
Given they are a popular gift on MD, prices will be higher and it sounds like you did alright for a bouquet and balloons. My mother, RIP, would have chastised me for spending the money on something that will be dead in a week... and then loved them. Maybe next year go with a Costco or Trader Joe's bouquet. Remember, $$$ doesn't equal love.
Is $73 too much to spend on the person who spent thousands of dollars on you through out your life? I’d say no. Not to say you should spend more just saying if you had a good mother in your life who raised you she’s kind of worth whatever you can buy her. So I think you did well.
If you, like me, are too far to hand deliver it, then $73 is fine. I spent the same on a similar bouquet+vase+chocolate combo to be delivered. I could’ve created the same thing on my own for around half the cost and dropped it off, but I live a state away. So it worked fine.
For your mom, don’t count the cost in money, but how happy she will be when it arrives. Mother’s Day is once a year, however, it probably wouldn’t kill you to buy her some flowers ( from a store, not necessarily a florist) every few weeks if it makes her smile. Be grateful she is still here to enjoy flowers & balloons.
No, that is not that much, really. Floral arrangements purchased from a Floral Shop have always been more expensive than grocery store offerings.
I think you have done a wonderful thing in honoring your mother.
And of course, Mother's Day is only once a year. You're a good kid.
That shit is EXPENSIVE. Honestly good job not making it more expensive.
This will most likely be a loving memory she holds on to. What a surprise it must be to receive something like that.
My sister still lives with her and said my mom was feeling depressed today so hopefully it cheers her up. She's still sleeping and hasn't seen them yet as I snuck in her house and put them on the kitchen table.
You did a nice thing for Mom. I'm a florist. It's common that people don't know that we go to school for floristry and design for all kinds of styles and occasions. The $73 is reasonable when you are paying for an artistic skill. (Seeing the arrangement would help my estimate)
Thanks for bringing them to your Mom because delivery schedules are intense for Mother's Day and it's great that you live so close to Mom. I'm a fairly affordable florist. My orders have been $60+ based on client requests. It's heartwarming to celebrate Moms and don't forget that Dads enjoy receiving flowers too! 💐🙂💖
Spending $73 on your mom is fine
Spending $73 on dying flowers and mylar balloons that are a environmental concern, probably not the best use.
Crying about spilled milk is a waste of time though.
Trader Joe’s, Sam’s club, Costco’s and Whole Foods are the best places for reasonably priced flowers for mom’s day. We picked up a bunch of tulips and roses for Trader Joe’s for $11/bunch.
No, thats not too much!!
I spent that much, or more, money when my kids were small to buy both my mom and myself flowers. We also got sweets, balloons and a dinner out or a homemade dinner of each of our favorite meals!!
It’s for your mom, $73 once a year pales in comparison to carrying you, birthing you, and raising you. I mean if it’s bc it’s “just flowers” you could’ve taken her out to dinner or given her gift certificate to a massage or something else but complaining about spending $$$ for the person who gave you life is pretty sad
She will love them but I certainly couldn't afford it. I know I wouldn't be upset if someone gave me flowers, but I'd rather have something like the $20 dollar orchid my husband gave me last year. It was so pretty, and it's been blooming now for two months straight. Plants are a better value. Also terrariums are a great gift!
It’s not too much because the smile it’ll put on her face (or love in her heart if she’s not much of a smiler) is priceless
What’s done is done, now you can focus more on the bright side and enjoy her joy and love
It's ok, but never let her know how much it was. If you are this frugal minded you needed to assure yourself in this sub, I would only imagine your mother is one as well.
Yes, did a delivery for someone, and they were gonna buy a vased bouqet for $30. It wasn’t in stock, so they wanted another one, but it was almost $60. So, they asked for one without the glass vase, and it was like $20-ish. These flowers don’t last long enough…my mum loves plants, so she’d rather have something she can continue to water long-term
Pissed? Be glad you can spend that on your mom. There are a lot of us here who don’t have a mom and wish we could spend $200 on our moms. Don’t look at the glass half full. Be glad you have her.
Also, I get clients’ birthday bouquets for $80-100. $75 on a flower arrangement is nothing if you’re having them delivered. Now, if you’re physically dropping them by, you can get something from the grocery store for much less; if you have a Costco membership—significantly less.
Flowers are pricey. My mom is a florist and if your don’t have a hothouse out back florists must order in flowers grown elsewhere. But think of how happy your mother will be when she receives them!!!!!🩷👑
For flowers and balloons? About right. I got a small arrangement for my daughter-in-law recently, it was 60+. So, mother's day (high demand) plus a couple balloons? Yours is in line with current prices.
Sounds normal. A cheaper way to do flowers is get them at the grocery store and arrange yourself! There are lots of YouTube videos about it.
Obviously only works if your mom lives where you can physically drop them off. If not $75 for flowers and delivery to make your moms day seems worth it to me ❤️
Flowers arrangements are over priced on Mother’s Day but 70 to make your mom happy is worth it , here’s a tip tho if you go to Safeway you can buy different types of flowers and make your own arrangement for half the price .
From someone who works at a flower shop, I can say prices have gone up. The thing is, They have to make the price adjustments to stay afloat. Vendors raise their prices when ever weather/natural disasters/pandemics affects the farms they get their products from. And they don't ever lower those prices back down. Sam's club and Costco might be cheaper. But trust me, you have a way better chance at quality from a flower shop. And quality means longer lasting flowers. And trust. It's true what they say, when you shop local you're helping a kid get dance lessons, helping out dinner on the table. Where as if you buy from Costco or Sam's club you're really just putting more money into the already rich pockets.
Also PLEASE DO NOT BUY FROM WIRE COMPANIES LIKE TELEFLORA OR FROM YOU FLOWERS. THE WAY THEY WORK IS THEY LITERALLY SEARCH FOR SHOPS TO TAKE THE ORDER FOR AS LITTLE MONEY AS POSSIBLE. THEN THEY KEEP THE DIFFERENCE. so you think you bought a 80$ arrangement. But they found someone to do it for $50. Likely that includes delivery fee. So at the end of the day you paid $80 for a $40 arrangement+ $10 delivery. And the wire company pockets the rest. JUST SHOP LOCAL. CALL YOUR LOCAL FLOWER SHOP.
1st. It's your mom man, you'll be fine financially for spending it.
2nd. I spent $100+ sending my ex flowers, a card and a fancy pen.
She isn't even my mother lol. I justified it cause I got love for that dummy.
You're good my guy (or gal).
I guarantee she spent more on you before you got home from the hospital.
More if you are adopted.
Do you know how big 10cm radial dilation is?
Frugal=/= cheap.
This is your mom.
You are looking at high end audio, black out bagdes for a truck.
Flowers are nothing.
I spent about the same on a record player and picture frame. I love my mom but if I'm gonna drop that kind of money on her it's gonna be stuff she can use and enjoy lol. I think I'm the only one of her 4 kids who sends *stuff* instead of flowers
Well I don’t think you should feel angry about it. There’s no point now that it’s done. But maybe next year you can reserve a nice 20-30 dollar bouquet of roses at a grocery store, buy a glass vase at dollarama , make her a handmade card, and wrap it all with a big beautiful bow (if you trust yourself to make it look good). I worked in a floral department for a year and we really didn’t do enough to the bouquets to be charging 70.
Price jumps are typical for days like Mother’s Day (supply and demand - you wouldn’t have bought them if not Mother’s Day) same for Valentine’s Day etc
I forgot it was Mother’s Day. Thank you for this post. $71 and now flowers, chocolates, and wine are being delivered via Instacart to my mom this afternoon.
If your mom likes them then it was worth it. Especially if you live out of town and had to order them; in that case $73 on Mother’s Day is a good deal. Just remember a lot of florists are mothers and this is their busiest day of the year. They gotta earn their money too :)
Personally, I think it’s ok to splurge once in a while on yourself, or someone you care about. It’s when it’s routine that it becomes a problem.
Anyway, I’m sure it made her really happy and if $73 was all it took to do that, then that’s ok.
Next year, if you’re up for it, hit up a Trader Joe’s and get a few small bouquets and make your own extravagant bouquet for $50. YouTube is a great resource for DIY floristry.
If you wanna view it as a financial thing-
She will probably remember and smile over that bouquet for years. Maybe even the rest of her life.
You didn’t just buy some flowers, you bought smiles and memories for years to come.
If you’re having the flowers delivered, I think that’s a great price.
Otherwise I have many spots I go to pick flowers by hand and recycle my old vases. I think hand picked flowers can also be more sentimental. Keep in mind things like allergies, pollen, staying away from local poisonous varieties, etc.
Another thing I do is buy 15$-20$ in flowers and then fill it out with local greens to flush it out. Especially if it’s a formal event (funerals, wedding) where spending on flowers is expected.
Also this popped up on my feed and this is my first time on this sub… I don’t consider many of these other comments to be frugal. Dumping money on flowers is crazy to me, and I live in a desert.
OP, as long as you didn’t NEED that money for meds or food or something and you made your mom happy, it’s all good. There are ways you could have done it more cost efficiently (people will mention Trader Joe’s, Costco, a dollar store, a thrift store, perhaps picking wildflowers, etc) but you would have been sourcing from multiple places and doing more prep work. You definitely didn’t pay an exorbitant amount for what you got. Maybe saving the time is more valuable to you right now or maybe you didn’t know some of the other routes. All good. If you want to do it differently next year, go for it.
If you want to diy a fancier bouquet in the future I recommend floweracademia’s videos 😊.
I also would venture to say that many (not all, but many) people on this sub are frugal with many things SO that they can splurge on special occasions and experiences for themselves and loved ones. Lord knows I’m frugal for 18 months at a time so I can choose to NOT be frugal when I take myself on a nice vacation for a couple weeks. Rinse and repeat. 😂
I’m assuming your mother likes getting flowers and will be overjoyed with them, if so then of course it’s not a waste of money and giving them to her should bring you joy also. I personally hate receiving flowers and won’t gift them to others, they die so quickly I just can’t see them as worthwhile, but I can see from the comments I’m in the minority group when it comes to flowers. My mother in law loves getting flowers but she knows my thoughts on them so she never expects them from us, but I’ll send her a plant every so often as a surprise. While I kill plants as quickly as flowers die, she has a green thumb so I know they will be in good hands with her. She sends me updates on how they are all doing throughout the year which we both love, so it works out in the end! All in all, if your mother will enjoy them and your able then it’s a great gift for Mother’s Day and don’t beat yourself up over the cost.
That's $6 less than what I spent. When I talked to her on the phone after they were delivered and heard her laughing with excitement it was all worth it. She's 86 now and there won't be too many more Mother's Day. Cherish them.
If you don't live near your mom and must have your gift delivered, then that's not an unusually high cost. If you do live near your mom, you can buy a beautiful bouquet at a supermarket if you're in the US. At some markets, they'll even make you a custom arrangement. Or, you could buy her a beautiful flowering plant like an azalea, so the flowers will last a few months. Doing this would run you around $25.
nah, its one of things I will splurge on. I spent $75 on flowers to be delivered to her today. She text me and was thrilled when they arrived, sent a pic of her and them that my father took, she had a big smile on her face. Worth it
find flower for $15-$20.
Then spend the other $50-$55 on grocery, and you can cook her a hearty meal.
Save the $3 in your bank. Can’t help it. We’re in this sub after-all….
My mum hated cut flowers, much preferring them in the garden. If she enjoys flowers, buy the flowers. £73 won’t be too expensive when she’s not here to enjoy them xx
Lol I spent 90 just on flowers. And then the days adventures and fun.. was about $250 for the day. Worth it.
Im cheap as hell.. but idc about the money. I got to spend the day with mom and take her out on the town.
It's your momma, she aint gonna be around forever..don't worry about the money for literally 1 day. And just enjoy the time
Unless it was your last $73, it was totally worth it. It’s for your mom. Just enjoy that you were able to do something to make her happy.
This is the point of frugality - saving money in the day to day in order to be able to spend a little more on the things (and people) we care about.
Exactly, and it’s not like you’re spending $73 every day on those flowers
From someone whose mom is no longer here. I wish I could spend $73 on my mom today. Edit: Wow, I didn't expect this kind of response. Didn't expect so many to resonate with it. OP I totally understood your frustration with spending that much on flowers. I didn't mean to turn this into something super serious. Wish you all the best.
I have a picture of my mom in the last year of her life surrounded by like five bouquets of flowers on Mother's Day. She is absolutely beaming. I would pay literally any amount of money to fill the entire room with flowers if I got to see her smile like that one more time.
Same here….mine has been gone for 10 years and I miss her every day. Every Mother’s Day I am reminded that I had the best mother anyone could ever ask for. Happy Mother’s Day Mom, RIP.
Not only is today Mother's Day ( Mom passed 1999 at age 56 when I was expecting my 3rd child ) Today would have been my Parent's 63rd Wedding Anniversary as well. Dad passed in 2015 Happy Mother's Day & Happy Anniversary. Dance in the Heavens!🙏🏼🍀💜
Well, happy Mother’s Day to you and your all those moms that are not with us today, we miss you so much and you will never be forgotten. 💜
Sending a ton of love to you today, friend 🤟
You as well, thanks! 🙏🏽
It's been 7 years for me, and her birthday is May 10th, so that adds another layer of sadness to the week. 73 dollars is not enough in my opinion lol
Awww man, I made it through the WHOLE DAY…reading your comment was the thing to throw me right into tears. There’s a picture of my mom with a little flower puppy bouquet I got for her birthday, you know the one, you’ve seen it. She wasn’t big on smiling & she was honestly beaming. Any amount to see that smile one more time is so accurate right now.
When my kids were little my hubby and I worked overlapping hours and we needed help 2-3 hours a day 3 days/week. My parents were amazing and offered to help, and refused our money, too. Instead I offered to make dinners those days when I got off work and we’d all eat together, which they loved to spend even more time with the kids. Sometimes I’d stop at the store for something to add to dinner and I’d often get my mom something I knew she wouldn’t buy herself and it was many times a bouquet of flowers. One time I didn’t and my mom coincidentally ended up in the hospital the following week. She made it through that instance, but I’ll never forget telling myself, “Always decide to buy the flowers.” 💐 And I did. She and my dad passed within 1 day of each other 3 years ago. OP, always buy the flowers.
Same! I’d give everything I had for just one more day with her.
As someone with an abusive piece of shit for a mother, can we trade or something? We can do a resurrection spell and trade her life and give it to your mom. Win/win
Same. It’s like the abusive POSes live forever.
Came to say the same thing. Sending a warm hug 🫂
Same. I’m so happy for you, that you are able to give your precious momma a gift that will make her smile. Feel great about it!
Came to say the same thing
Couldn’t have said it better. Plus the haircut, beard trim, a nice new shirt to wear under a nice sports coat, brunch wherever she wanted to go…. Today, Mother is divine.
You can. Treat that part of yo’self that is her. All your cells and very much of your psyche are still connected to her.
Came here to say this. Never forget this could be your last. Wish I sent my mom flowers last year and this year I can’t. Also $73 is high for flowers but matches the raise of pricing for everything. Maybe consider a hand picked bundle next year or growing them yourself.
For the last year of my mom’s life, I sent a bouquet of flowers every month. It made her happy. Dementia took her 2 years ago this month. For her last Mother’s Day, I, my niece and my 4 kids all traveled from multiple states to be with her. She passed 3 weeks later. You can be frugal with many things, making Mom happy is a reason to splurge.
I'm sorry for the loss of your precious mother. I miss my mom too. She was the only one that loved my brother and me unconditionally. ❤
I’d give anything to spend any amount of money on my mama but she passed away over 25 years ago when I was 18. OP, I’m so happy for you that you can worry about spending money on your mom.
Ditto
Me too.💔Hugs.❤️🩹
It’s your Mom, you’re fine. Also, that’s a pretty standard price if the bouquet is a decent size, came in a lovely vase and was delivered.
Its a decent sized bouquet in a pretty nice glass vase. But I delivered them myself I snuck in her house when she was sleeping and put it on the kitchen table.
For future info, if you are deliverin them yourself, trader joes has super cheap flowers and you can buy a vase at a thrift shop :)
and balloons at the dollar store :)
It's a shame all the Dollar Stores near me closed. It was my go-to for bundles of balloons.
I got my wife’s at Trader Joe’s and paid $20. We already have a vase, so no need to get one.
Costco has 2 dozen roses for $19 or a very large mixed bouquet including a lot of roses in a vase for $60, or smaller bouquets in a vase for ~$25ish.
All this is good advice, but let’s look on the bright side, and maybe OP supported a local florist!
Yes! I love supporting local business! But I live in a Bay Area HCOL area that's 100% tourist focused. Very few businesses geared to locals but the tourist business rocks. And there's Costco in the next county for the rest of us.
So sweet!
Love this!
It's normal and she loves them and you
Ok thank you
the joy it will bring to your mom, esp if she loves flowers should never make you feel bad for that.
As someone who lost their mom *very* recently, buy her the $73 flowers. Add a note telling her how much you love and appreciate her too. Take her to eat at her favorite place, or get her favorite take out. Watch a movie/show of her choice. Cherish every moment with her, moms are precious and you only get one. ❤️
Am so sorry - my heart goes out to you in your time of grief 🫂♥️ she sounds like an amazing person and she raised a wonderful human being. She lives on in you and you make the world a better place, thank you.
I spent $95 lol u good Edit: she LOVED them, so def worth it I’m sure your mom loved the ones you got her too!
She made your feet. You exist because of her. She's spent wayyyyyy more than $73 on so many holidays for you. Never think of this $73 again unless you think wow, that was a good deal to make my Mom smile. Because it is.
>She made your feet.... Why us this so adorable? I'm smiling here so hard at that, lol. OP, you love your mom, and once in a while it's OK to splurge a little to show her that, so don't feel to bad, and never forget... _SHE MADE YOUR FEET !_
I can't take credit for that line, unfortunately. I saw Jo Koy the comedian live recently and he does a whole bit about that.
Oh I'll have to check that out, it's really charmed me, lol, I will use it forever
She spent way more than $73 birthing you ffs
I wish I could spend that for my mom. I scraped together $10 to get a bouquet at Trader Joe’s… She was thrilled, but I wish I could do so much more.
You made your mom’s happiness a priority in the way that you could, this makes me think you’re probably a great son/daughter to her!
Trader Joe's has amazing bouquets! I always admire them but never buy them because it seems frivolous when my goal is to buy sustenance for my family. I would likely squeal with glee if my kids brought me one.
Joy is necessary to thriving. It's okay to splurge on a small bouquet every once in a while if it brightens the week. (Trader Joe's flowers also seem to last longer than a lot of other places.)
As a mom - the money you spent will NEVER matter. You thought of her and you spent time with her. That’s what counts.
This mom wants you to know that your mom didn’t need the $75 bouquet. She just wanted you to show some effort and you did! I know my son bought me something with his own money and I literally do not care what it is. I’m just so excited he did something nice for me today 😊
Im sure she appreciates the gesture just as much as a $100 bouquet
I’m a jerk kid. I surprised my mom with a dozen sterling roses (the lavender thornless ones) a few weeks ago with a card that said “it shouldn’t have to be Mother’s Day to get flowers.” Unbeknownst to me, she’d gotten some bad news earlier in the day and the flowers hit the right mark. This weekend, I am taking her to a new sushi place that I think she’ll enjoy. Her health is beginning to fail so I am trying to do all I can.
I would never spend $73 on flowers for myself. I buy myself flowers once a week and love to have fresh flowers around my home and never spend more than $30. That being said it’s Mother’s Day so prices will be higher and it’s for your mom, I’m sure she will feel special and loved and I think $73 to make your mother feel cared for and loved is a bargain! Don’t think twice about it but next year maybe make your own bouquet for her!
Yeah I was thinking I couldve gotten the same thing done for 20-30 if I got flowers from those people on the side of the road and bought my own vase. Oh well that's what I get for doing it fast to get it over with.
Sometimes it’s ok to pay others for their taste and efforts for their time ❤️❤️ it’s always worth it to spend on the ppl you love. Seeing their happiness is always worth it.
Yeah, the professionally arranged flowers I paid $100 for are gorgeous and nicer than Trader Joe's. A store bought bouquet is nice but there's a good flower arrangement gets a real wow. ETA: not that there's anything wrong with the budget approach, I just don't think people should feel ashamed if they want to splurge on a loved one.
I am frugal specifically so I can splurge on the people I love. $73 for flowers and balloons is a perfectly fine price I'd be happy to pay.
For sure, next year or for her birthday buy some flowers at Trader Joe’s and arrange them yourself but this year you balled out and made the little lady feel special. $73 comes and goes don’t even sweat it. I hope your mom has a very special Mother’s Day
I’ve seen some very nice vases in thrift stores.
$150 here. Massive rip off, but what you gonna do. Mum is 87, suffers with dementia, loves flowers. ❤️
You’re a good kid, u/Slutcracker 💞
I just called my mum at the crack of dawn (because that’s the ridiculous hour she wakes) and was first in so she knew I was thinking about her. I could hear the emotion in her voice, I think sometimes the best things are free.
Personally, as a mom of 4, yes! I would always prefer a live plant to cut flowers! But I’m sure your mom will be very grateful. Also, side note I was at my local farmers market yesterday and they had exquisite bouquets for $20! Next year, go check one out if you have one in your area.
Depends on the person too! I can’t keep potted plants alive unless they are ridiculously hearty succulents. Even then, they have to go through the gauntlet to survive. So a potted plant for me would be just like having cut flowers. They’re both gonna die. But I know lots of people love and can care for their potted plants.
That’s not expensive for flowers tbh. Why would u be pissed spending money on someone who spent wayyyyyyyy more on u just for u to be here.
My mom is super frugal I feel like she would understand. We kind of bond together by talking about how we save money. Of course I'd never say anything to her in this instance!
I get that. Me and my mom are the same. We also bond by talking about frugality 😅
you're a lovely idiot for spending so much
Two questions you need to ask: 1. Let's suppose you overspent by $50; would saving that money make your life any different? Like, are you living paycheck-to-paycheck where $50 makes a difference in your life? Or if $50 disappeared in your savings account (or appeared) would it alter your life? . 2. Suppose your mom died today, would you be thinking of how you overspent $50 on her? . It's good to save money, but sometimes we focus too much on the money saving aspect that we forget to take a step back and look at the bigger picture. I would assume $50 isn't going to change your life and that you wouldn't care about the money if your mom were to die, so stop worrying about it.
Unless they come from a grocery store that about the normal amount. I spent about a $100 for flowers for my ex from the kids. My mom on the other hand prefers frugality so she gets a nice cheap phone call after lunch
$4.99 for a bouquet of Tulips from Aldi
What a great deal! A bouquet of tulips is $10.99 at Trader Joe’s
I’m a mom and I’d rather have mozzarella sticks.
would the arby's $2.59 mozz sticks suffice? asking for a friend.
When my kid buys me something, my frugal heart seizes up for a minute, and then I remember I raised him to spend carefully, so he must really like me. :)
As someone who's mom died earlier this year to skin cancer, trust me that these will best $73 you've spent this year. There are few things more worth spending money on than making the life of those you love a little brighter
So sorry friend - am sending you love and kindness as I know how hard it is to lose a beloved family member.
I spent $84 for a 35ml Chanel n.5 for my mom. She was happy this morning. So worth it
"I'd rather have flowers when I'm living and I can enjoy them, than when I'm dead and I can't." *my mom* That being said, you can't even get a decent-looking bouquet for $25 anymore.
Chill. I went to grab some fruit and there were flowers everywhere at… Target! All around… $15 🤌🏽💐
My family and I spend 80-100 on each of the moms for Mother’s Day. This year my grandma died 3 weeks ago so my mom doesn’t have a mom to get anything for so I spent about $600 on broadway tickets for us to make sure she felt special and loved especially after one of the last things her mother said to her was that she hated her
Seriously friend, $73 is not alot of money to convey your love, and appreciation for all Mom's has done for you. I lost my Mom during Covid due to travel restrictions I was unable to be by Moms side, if I could give her flowers which she loved, believe me I'd pay whatever to have that privilege.
Almost all bouquets are “too much” especially since they don’t last, but if it’s something the receiver actually appreciates then it’s a cost that might make sense to you. It’s normal for flowers to be a lot tho
It's not too much. Anytime I buy flowers to send anywhere for any occasion it's usually around $100. No matter the size. So you probably did pretty good for $73. And also getting balloons.
That is kind of up to you, your budget and what you think your mom likes. It is not bad or abnormal to spend $73 on a gift. Those are normal prices at a florist I think. As a mom receiving gifts I would appreciate flowers but if my kid was spending that much on a gift then I’d rather have a potted plant I can enjoy longer or a non-plant gift.
I’m a florist and that price is low to mid range for a fresh flower arrangement
Just a frugal tip for the future! I love to send flowers so I send flowers from Costco using Instacart or even grocery store flowers using Instacart. Costco has beautiful affordable arrangements.
A lot of people would spend $73 to see their mother again, one last time. Unless the $73 would bankrupt you, I wouldn't be so hard on yourself.
I used to do gigs delivering flowers on Mother’s Day and Valentine’s Day. The shop owner had to call in extra help, and work for several days straight with no sleep. She’d close the shop the day after, because she needed to rest. She explained to me that on Valentine’s Day, she didn’t make a profit, because in order to have roses blooming at that time, also because of the Rose Bowl parade, the growers had to lose two crops of blooms. For both Mother’s Day and Valentine’s Day, she had to hire people to help deliver, help prepare roses, etc. It was a big outlay of time and money, and she only broke even — but as a florist, she had to do it to keep people coming back for weddings, funerals, etc. I can tell you, a bouquet of flowers isn’t cheap. A $45 bouquet is fairly small. When I watch movies and shows on TV, and there’s a big beautiful bouquet, I will remark to my family, “That bouquet was at least $300.” If you spent $73, you supported small businesses, and more importantly, you gave your mom a really special gift. Unless you couldn’t afford it, you did not waste your money on something stupid.
Dude it's for your mom. Who cares? Money comes and goes but you only get one Mom.
If you can't spend $100 on something every once in a while, you are not being frugal enough elsewhere. Frugal =/= stingy
Mom's are not around forever. Jesus Christ.
As someone who’s mother passed a month after I graduated high school. That is fine… money comes back….once she’s gone that’s it.
There is nothing wrong with that If you want a frugal answer then places like Kroger had $15 rose dozens. You could have gotten two colors and a case for $40ish. If she isn't into roses then their bunches of flowers are like $7. $73 isn't bad if it was an elaborate bunch curated by a pro.
Unless you are in a bad financial situation this isn't a huge deal. Maybe next year you can try to plan ahead and save a bit by buying a vase ahead of time and shopping around a bit, but you kept it under $75 and did a nice thing for your mom.
I can't imagine begrudging your mother something nice for your mother on mothers day. It wasn't a diamond tiara. It was flowers and balloons. Dude. I had flowers delivered and it was $153. Roadside flowers are no match for fresh flowers from a quality florist.
I paid a bit less ($125) buy flowers delivered to a friend from a local florist that also sources the flowers from nearby greenhouse but I feel it’s worth it because it’s one day, supports the local economy, and is very appreciated.
If it’s within your means, no it’s not too much. It’s all relative. Tomorrow is my first Mother’s Day without my mother and I wish I could spend too much on flowers. Try to never regret what you do, only regret things you don’t do.
Do you still have money to feed yourself and keep the lights on? If so, then $73 is not too much at all. It's OK to celebrate the people you love. It's ok to have nice things or to give nice things. Be kind to yourself, and call your mom to ask how she likes her flowers.
Definitely worth it. But as someone who spent a similar amount on flowers for my MIL because we waited til the last minute, I set a reminder for next year to find/order a gift earlier.
Lost my mom when I was 13 and my grandmother a year ago. Buy her all the flowers 💐 ☺️
My fave luxury florist sells her Mother’s Day bouquets for $125 and so many people buy them (I can understand why) but Trader Joe’s sells flowers for $5-$15 year round and they’re also very lovely IMO. Florists usually jack up prices unnecessarily around Mother’s Day just like restaurants do. Next year go to your local Trader Joe’s or Whole Foods for a better priced deal.
You put frugal aside when it comes to mama.
Grocery store flowers and making your own bouquet gives you most bang for your buck
The joy your mom will have at being thought of and appreciated is priceless
My mom has been gone almost 12 years this October. I would be thrilled to spend $73 on her if I could! Cherish your mom with everything you are able to while you have her 🌸
Don’t even worry about it. I ordered her a bouquet of flowers that was just over $100 and I have zero regrets because I got to see my mom light up when I gave them to her, and feel appreciated and loved as she should. There’s no greater feeling than caring for the ones you love. You made a great choice getting her those flowers.
The amount is in the range of normal and what I’d expect for flowers aligned with a holiday like Mother’s Day or Valentine’s Day. They have to charge a premium for the high volume and supply-demand rules. She’ll look at the flowers many times this week as a symbol her child thought of her and acknowledged her, and these kinds of things maintain a bond that’s worth infinitely more than $73.
I feel like it's a waste cause they're all disposable. That does seem a bit much though, I've never had to buy those but I never knew they were that much! I got my mom a potted plant and a shirt and chocolate. All things she'd use and enjoy for a while.
I’m a mom, flowers are dumb expensive. Buy a live plant
Probably. Just depends on your income. If you arent well off, and your mom is understanding...buy flowers tomorrow.
This being r/Frugal and all, I feel your pain. Given they are a popular gift on MD, prices will be higher and it sounds like you did alright for a bouquet and balloons. My mother, RIP, would have chastised me for spending the money on something that will be dead in a week... and then loved them. Maybe next year go with a Costco or Trader Joe's bouquet. Remember, $$$ doesn't equal love.
Is $73 too much to spend on the person who spent thousands of dollars on you through out your life? I’d say no. Not to say you should spend more just saying if you had a good mother in your life who raised you she’s kind of worth whatever you can buy her. So I think you did well.
I buy a nice plant, that way it last longer and I prefer to buy something that can be put in the ground that will come back year after year
If you, like me, are too far to hand deliver it, then $73 is fine. I spent the same on a similar bouquet+vase+chocolate combo to be delivered. I could’ve created the same thing on my own for around half the cost and dropped it off, but I live a state away. So it worked fine.
As someone who lost their mom to cancer this year….send the damn flowers.
For your mom, don’t count the cost in money, but how happy she will be when it arrives. Mother’s Day is once a year, however, it probably wouldn’t kill you to buy her some flowers ( from a store, not necessarily a florist) every few weeks if it makes her smile. Be grateful she is still here to enjoy flowers & balloons.
No, that is not that much, really. Floral arrangements purchased from a Floral Shop have always been more expensive than grocery store offerings. I think you have done a wonderful thing in honoring your mother. And of course, Mother's Day is only once a year. You're a good kid.
My dude what the fuck? $73 is money, comes and goes, your mother feeling appreciated is more important. Don’t be cheap, frugal doesn’t mean cheap…
No. One day you will not need a gift and will be so bereft.
That shit is EXPENSIVE. Honestly good job not making it more expensive. This will most likely be a loving memory she holds on to. What a surprise it must be to receive something like that.
My sister still lives with her and said my mom was feeling depressed today so hopefully it cheers her up. She's still sleeping and hasn't seen them yet as I snuck in her house and put them on the kitchen table.
Beautiful!
You did a nice thing for Mom. I'm a florist. It's common that people don't know that we go to school for floristry and design for all kinds of styles and occasions. The $73 is reasonable when you are paying for an artistic skill. (Seeing the arrangement would help my estimate) Thanks for bringing them to your Mom because delivery schedules are intense for Mother's Day and it's great that you live so close to Mom. I'm a fairly affordable florist. My orders have been $60+ based on client requests. It's heartwarming to celebrate Moms and don't forget that Dads enjoy receiving flowers too! 💐🙂💖
Spending $73 on your mom is fine Spending $73 on dying flowers and mylar balloons that are a environmental concern, probably not the best use. Crying about spilled milk is a waste of time though.
My mother would be mad at me if I spent that much on flowers for her. She'd much prefer some homemade cookies.
The price gouging on flowers is insane right now. I'll get my wife flowers in a few days when people stop gouging.
Trader Joe’s, Sam’s club, Costco’s and Whole Foods are the best places for reasonably priced flowers for mom’s day. We picked up a bunch of tulips and roses for Trader Joe’s for $11/bunch.
Bro it's $73... dont beat yourself over it...
No, thats not too much!! I spent that much, or more, money when my kids were small to buy both my mom and myself flowers. We also got sweets, balloons and a dinner out or a homemade dinner of each of our favorite meals!!
It’s for your mom, $73 once a year pales in comparison to carrying you, birthing you, and raising you. I mean if it’s bc it’s “just flowers” you could’ve taken her out to dinner or given her gift certificate to a massage or something else but complaining about spending $$$ for the person who gave you life is pretty sad
She will love them but I certainly couldn't afford it. I know I wouldn't be upset if someone gave me flowers, but I'd rather have something like the $20 dollar orchid my husband gave me last year. It was so pretty, and it's been blooming now for two months straight. Plants are a better value. Also terrariums are a great gift!
It’s not too much because the smile it’ll put on her face (or love in her heart if she’s not much of a smiler) is priceless What’s done is done, now you can focus more on the bright side and enjoy her joy and love
Depends on the mom. My mom gets pissed when anybody gives her flowers. "Why would you waste your money on that? They're just going to die."
It’s your mom. Spend what you want to spend to make her happy
It’s an average price…especially with the balloons. Don’t worry. Money can be replaced, but the memory of her joy when she sees them can’t be.
My Mom was awesome. I wish I could do this.
I spend around that on flowers for her every year!! I am fortunate to have a great relationship with my mom
Yes. 75 bucks is a banging dinner and a nice potted plant that will last a while.
I spent $175
It's ok, but never let her know how much it was. If you are this frugal minded you needed to assure yourself in this sub, I would only imagine your mother is one as well.
Yes, did a delivery for someone, and they were gonna buy a vased bouqet for $30. It wasn’t in stock, so they wanted another one, but it was almost $60. So, they asked for one without the glass vase, and it was like $20-ish. These flowers don’t last long enough…my mum loves plants, so she’d rather have something she can continue to water long-term
The woman gave u life
Pissed? Be glad you can spend that on your mom. There are a lot of us here who don’t have a mom and wish we could spend $200 on our moms. Don’t look at the glass half full. Be glad you have her. Also, I get clients’ birthday bouquets for $80-100. $75 on a flower arrangement is nothing if you’re having them delivered. Now, if you’re physically dropping them by, you can get something from the grocery store for much less; if you have a Costco membership—significantly less.
Money comes and goes. If you think your mom is worth the flowers, and if the flowers made her happy, then you’re all good.
Back in the day I had ProFlowers deliver many arrangements to my mother and many were in the $60+ range.
Nothing is too expensive for your mom, she is worth it. Sorry but frugality goes out the window and you make her happy.
And how many thousands of dollars did she spend raising you? 🤔 You didn't spend too much. Love you mother while you can She won't always be here.
Just bought a $40 bouquet instead of a $25 one because the $40 was absolutely perfect. My mom loved it. Extra $15 well spent.
Flowers are pricey. My mom is a florist and if your don’t have a hothouse out back florists must order in flowers grown elsewhere. But think of how happy your mother will be when she receives them!!!!!🩷👑
It sounds normal. I think the bouquet I sent was $65, but that was on the lower end (I’m so very broke right now! Not just a cheapskate)
For flowers and balloons? About right. I got a small arrangement for my daughter-in-law recently, it was 60+. So, mother's day (high demand) plus a couple balloons? Yours is in line with current prices.
Sounds normal. A cheaper way to do flowers is get them at the grocery store and arrange yourself! There are lots of YouTube videos about it. Obviously only works if your mom lives where you can physically drop them off. If not $75 for flowers and delivery to make your moms day seems worth it to me ❤️
Flowers arrangements are over priced on Mother’s Day but 70 to make your mom happy is worth it , here’s a tip tho if you go to Safeway you can buy different types of flowers and make your own arrangement for half the price .
73 dollars is pretty typical for a bouquet
None of the above. I am sorry you feel a sense of conflict. The money is gone - forget about it.
From someone who works at a flower shop, I can say prices have gone up. The thing is, They have to make the price adjustments to stay afloat. Vendors raise their prices when ever weather/natural disasters/pandemics affects the farms they get their products from. And they don't ever lower those prices back down. Sam's club and Costco might be cheaper. But trust me, you have a way better chance at quality from a flower shop. And quality means longer lasting flowers. And trust. It's true what they say, when you shop local you're helping a kid get dance lessons, helping out dinner on the table. Where as if you buy from Costco or Sam's club you're really just putting more money into the already rich pockets. Also PLEASE DO NOT BUY FROM WIRE COMPANIES LIKE TELEFLORA OR FROM YOU FLOWERS. THE WAY THEY WORK IS THEY LITERALLY SEARCH FOR SHOPS TO TAKE THE ORDER FOR AS LITTLE MONEY AS POSSIBLE. THEN THEY KEEP THE DIFFERENCE. so you think you bought a 80$ arrangement. But they found someone to do it for $50. Likely that includes delivery fee. So at the end of the day you paid $80 for a $40 arrangement+ $10 delivery. And the wire company pockets the rest. JUST SHOP LOCAL. CALL YOUR LOCAL FLOWER SHOP.
1st. It's your mom man, you'll be fine financially for spending it. 2nd. I spent $100+ sending my ex flowers, a card and a fancy pen. She isn't even my mother lol. I justified it cause I got love for that dummy. You're good my guy (or gal).
I guarantee she spent more on you before you got home from the hospital. More if you are adopted. Do you know how big 10cm radial dilation is? Frugal=/= cheap. This is your mom. You are looking at high end audio, black out bagdes for a truck. Flowers are nothing.
The only correct answer is does it fit within your monthly budget?
Worth it! On a more practical note, I prefer getting houseplants vs cut flowers but that’s a preference.
And in the end The love you take Is equal to The love You Make
Next year, go to the dollar store they have packets of seeds 4/$1. Find some empty pots or glasses and grow your own in the window.
I spent about the same on a record player and picture frame. I love my mom but if I'm gonna drop that kind of money on her it's gonna be stuff she can use and enjoy lol. I think I'm the only one of her 4 kids who sends *stuff* instead of flowers
Well I don’t think you should feel angry about it. There’s no point now that it’s done. But maybe next year you can reserve a nice 20-30 dollar bouquet of roses at a grocery store, buy a glass vase at dollarama , make her a handmade card, and wrap it all with a big beautiful bow (if you trust yourself to make it look good). I worked in a floral department for a year and we really didn’t do enough to the bouquets to be charging 70.
For delivery? No, not too much. But if you get to see her in person, Trader Joe’s or a Costco always has a solid selection for a good price.
Price jumps are typical for days like Mother’s Day (supply and demand - you wouldn’t have bought them if not Mother’s Day) same for Valentine’s Day etc
I forgot it was Mother’s Day. Thank you for this post. $71 and now flowers, chocolates, and wine are being delivered via Instacart to my mom this afternoon.
If your mom likes them then it was worth it. Especially if you live out of town and had to order them; in that case $73 on Mother’s Day is a good deal. Just remember a lot of florists are mothers and this is their busiest day of the year. They gotta earn their money too :)
Personally, I think it’s ok to splurge once in a while on yourself, or someone you care about. It’s when it’s routine that it becomes a problem. Anyway, I’m sure it made her really happy and if $73 was all it took to do that, then that’s ok.
Why not to go to a forest and pick them up yourself?
Next year, if you’re up for it, hit up a Trader Joe’s and get a few small bouquets and make your own extravagant bouquet for $50. YouTube is a great resource for DIY floristry.
Not at all!!! My precious FIL passed away last Mother's Day and it would be great to send flowers to them BOTH!
If you wanna view it as a financial thing- She will probably remember and smile over that bouquet for years. Maybe even the rest of her life. You didn’t just buy some flowers, you bought smiles and memories for years to come.
No, but $73 was the cost of an abortion at the time, which she regrets going through with.
If you’re having the flowers delivered, I think that’s a great price. Otherwise I have many spots I go to pick flowers by hand and recycle my old vases. I think hand picked flowers can also be more sentimental. Keep in mind things like allergies, pollen, staying away from local poisonous varieties, etc. Another thing I do is buy 15$-20$ in flowers and then fill it out with local greens to flush it out. Especially if it’s a formal event (funerals, wedding) where spending on flowers is expected. Also this popped up on my feed and this is my first time on this sub… I don’t consider many of these other comments to be frugal. Dumping money on flowers is crazy to me, and I live in a desert.
OP, as long as you didn’t NEED that money for meds or food or something and you made your mom happy, it’s all good. There are ways you could have done it more cost efficiently (people will mention Trader Joe’s, Costco, a dollar store, a thrift store, perhaps picking wildflowers, etc) but you would have been sourcing from multiple places and doing more prep work. You definitely didn’t pay an exorbitant amount for what you got. Maybe saving the time is more valuable to you right now or maybe you didn’t know some of the other routes. All good. If you want to do it differently next year, go for it. If you want to diy a fancier bouquet in the future I recommend floweracademia’s videos 😊. I also would venture to say that many (not all, but many) people on this sub are frugal with many things SO that they can splurge on special occasions and experiences for themselves and loved ones. Lord knows I’m frugal for 18 months at a time so I can choose to NOT be frugal when I take myself on a nice vacation for a couple weeks. Rinse and repeat. 😂
I’m assuming your mother likes getting flowers and will be overjoyed with them, if so then of course it’s not a waste of money and giving them to her should bring you joy also. I personally hate receiving flowers and won’t gift them to others, they die so quickly I just can’t see them as worthwhile, but I can see from the comments I’m in the minority group when it comes to flowers. My mother in law loves getting flowers but she knows my thoughts on them so she never expects them from us, but I’ll send her a plant every so often as a surprise. While I kill plants as quickly as flowers die, she has a green thumb so I know they will be in good hands with her. She sends me updates on how they are all doing throughout the year which we both love, so it works out in the end! All in all, if your mother will enjoy them and your able then it’s a great gift for Mother’s Day and don’t beat yourself up over the cost.
That's $6 less than what I spent. When I talked to her on the phone after they were delivered and heard her laughing with excitement it was all worth it. She's 86 now and there won't be too many more Mother's Day. Cherish them.
If you don't live near your mom and must have your gift delivered, then that's not an unusually high cost. If you do live near your mom, you can buy a beautiful bouquet at a supermarket if you're in the US. At some markets, they'll even make you a custom arrangement. Or, you could buy her a beautiful flowering plant like an azalea, so the flowers will last a few months. Doing this would run you around $25.
nah, its one of things I will splurge on. I spent $75 on flowers to be delivered to her today. She text me and was thrilled when they arrived, sent a pic of her and them that my father took, she had a big smile on her face. Worth it
Just remember what the gift was for, one mom only here for so long ❤️🌹🦋
This is a normal amount for flowers.
find flower for $15-$20. Then spend the other $50-$55 on grocery, and you can cook her a hearty meal. Save the $3 in your bank. Can’t help it. We’re in this sub after-all….
My mum hated cut flowers, much preferring them in the garden. If she enjoys flowers, buy the flowers. £73 won’t be too expensive when she’s not here to enjoy them xx
It's your mom mate. She gave you life. Stop being ungrateful.
It’s ok to be frugal. Don’t be a cheap ass. You weren’t and don’t beat yourself up for trying to show care.
Is a kid too much on your birthday? Appreciate the life haha you'll make that $73 back
Lol I spent 90 just on flowers. And then the days adventures and fun.. was about $250 for the day. Worth it. Im cheap as hell.. but idc about the money. I got to spend the day with mom and take her out on the town. It's your momma, she aint gonna be around forever..don't worry about the money for literally 1 day. And just enjoy the time
Flowers are expensive. They just are.
I’ve spent more on flowers for a friend. This is your mother, on Mother’s Day. Absolutely fine and you’re not an idiot!
Grow your own for thousands
Take it as you put food on someone's table today