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π Mother's Day Gifts From the Thrift Store: Thoughtful Finds Under $25
The best Mother's Day gifts are personal. A vintage teacup, a well-loved cookbook or a charming brooch says more than a generic gift card. Thrift stores are full of the kind of thing she will keep for years.
Ideas
- A vintage teacup and saucer with a tin of tea.
- A cookbook from her favorite era.
- A brooch, pin or pair of clip-on earrings.
- A ceramic planter with a fresh plant.
- A silk scarf in a pretty pattern.
- A framed floral print.
- A set of cloth napkins or a lace runner.
Make it special
Add a handwritten card explaining why you chose it. Clean and polish the piece, and wrap it well. A thrifted vase with fresh flowers is an instant gift.
Where to shop
Edith's Emporium on McCallie Ave has gifts, home decor and locally made goods. Collective Clothing on the North Shore is great for vintage scarves and dresses. Antique malls are good for jewelry, china and linens.
Think about her story
The best gift fits the person. Does she garden, read, cook or collect? Start there. If her mother had a certain pattern of dish, a matching piece can mean a lot. Add a handwritten card that tells her why you picked it.
Quick answers
What if I cannot find a perfect match?
Look for the feeling: floral, cozy, elegant or funny. Gifts do not have to be matched sets.
How should I clean thrifted jewelry?
Wipe it gently with a soft cloth and mild soap, and avoid soaking anything with glued stones.
Thrift tip: Shop a week early. You will have time to clean and wrap.
Plan a gift-hunting route on the Chattanooga thrift trail map.
Plan a route through Chattanooga area thrift stores, vintage shops and antique malls, ordered around their hours.
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