With Coronavirus sadly still among us, Mother’s Day will have to be celebrated at a distance this year. Why not show her she is still very much in your thoughts by having a locally sourced gift delivered right to her door?

Here is our pick of 7 ideas for original gifts: all designed and made by local artisans from in and around the Metropolitan Area.

1. Personalised accessories

In Walcourt, Grain de folie has a range of T-shirts, handbags, cards and many other personalised accessories to show your Mum just how much she means to you.

In Beaumont, les coutures de Mo craft beautiful pieces out of fabric which are as original as they are unique. Hair scarves, dog bandannas, masks, baby accessories: you will love discovering these handmade creations.

2. Nibbles with a local flavour

In Couvin, the good people over at Toquées du Bocal have assembled carefully chosen boxes of nibbles which make the ideal accompaniment to pre-dinner drinks including terrines, cougette pickles and gazpacho. Simply make your choice and request delivery to any of the southern municipalities in the Metropolitan Area (Couvin, Chimay, Momignies, Viroinval, Cerfontaine, Froidchapelle, Philippeville, Walcourt or Gerpinnes).

3. Skincare products made right on the doorstep

As mentioned in a previous article, our region is brimming with creators of homemade cosmetics. This is the perfect opportunity to discover them and offer some support. A number of them also provide delivery: it couldn’t be easier!

4. Locally created jewellery

In Charleroi, Espèces Jewellery has a range of jewellery inspired by the worlds of geology and animals. You can pick out the perfect gift from among their extensive collection.

5. Gourmet boxes

In Jamioulx, the restaurant la Villa Castelli is offering you the chance to become a top chef in the comfort of your own home. Choose between carbonara, all’amatriciana, puttanesca or cream of black truffle, and a box of high-quality produce along with a detailed recipe will be delivered to the address of your choice. As well as sitting down to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal, your Mum is sure to enjoy the process of creating it and may even discover some secrets of Italian cooking along the way.

6. Make your own fresh flower arrangement

Try your hand at picking flowers in one of the “cut your own flowers” fields closest to you (Barbençon, Thuillies, Tarciennes, Nalinnes, etc.). Simply pick out the flowers you find prettiest, arrange your bouquet and pay your dues into the little box at the side of the field. All you have to do then is carefully place your floral masterpiece on the doorstep of that extra special recipient!

A home delivery service can also be provided.

In Marcinelle, “Corinne vend ses trucs” is offering Mother’s Day gift sets composed of stationery and homemade soap. Upon request, she will insert a small card bearing any heartfelt words you would like your mother to read. All ready to be sent out, right on time.

In Walcourt, the Ateliers de l’escargot have carefully and lovingly selected two short poetry booklets, just for Mum. These poetic compilations[MB1]  are sure to whisk her away in words and pictures.

For the most creative souls, this period in particular is also a prime opportunity to make your own Mother’s Day gifts, either as a solo project or with children: arts and crafts, household products, needlework, handmade cards… the internet is a treasure trove of ideas (some zanier than others) to help celebrate our mothers on this special day.