As a mom, Easter is no longer just a holiday—it’s a chance to create memories for my child that she can build on later, moments she’ll cherish, and ones I hope to look back on fondly when she hits those challenging teenage years.
Psychologists agree that holidays and family traditions play a key role in bonding, but you don’t need to be an expert to see how these rituals bring families closer together.
But every holiday also brings a shopping frenzy, with offers and deals convincing us that THIS is the one thing we must buy to make the celebration perfect.
I’ll admit, I’ve fallen into the trap of buying every yellow feather decoration, fake flower, and ceramic bunny from the corner store to create a “spring vibe.” But over the years, I’ve aimed to be more intentional, and this Easter I planned ahead to decide what truly adds to the celebration—and what’s just smoke and mirrors. In other words, what I’m willing to spend on this year, and what I’m not.
What’s Worth It: Experiences and Quality Time Together
For me, the heart of the holidays is the time we spend together—not the decorations, piles of gifts, or over-the-top tablescapes. It’s about being together, chatting, getting out, and sharing laughs.
This year, I’m planning a simple Easter-themed outing with my daughter—maybe an egg hunt or a visit to a petting zoo. These usually don’t cost much, and many places even offer free events. It’s worth checking ahead to pick spots that treat animals with care.
I’m happy to spend a reasonable amount on craft supplies, too. With a creative 6-year-old, we usually have plenty at home anyway. A few sheets of cardboard, some paint, glue, and markers can turn an afternoon into a fun, creative session. We talk, laugh, and make something to display on the table or door—something my daughter will be proud of. That means way more than any store-bought decoration.
What’s Not: Overhyped Decorations
I love beautifully decorated spaces, but I’ve realized seasonal decor often feels like wasted money rather than a real need. Stores flood us with shiny fake eggs, plush bunnies, and pastel trinkets as early as March—but most of these only hold interest for about three days before ending up buried in a box.
Instead, I stick to natural, reusable options. Last year, for example, we wove a simple wreath from willow twigs at grandma’s house. This year, I’ll refresh it with some handmade paper flowers or natural eggs. The home still feels festive—without the clutter of unnecessary plastic.
What’s Worth It: Simple, Lovable Easter Menu
We’re not expecting a huge crowd, and since my daughter is a picky eater, I keep the Easter menu simple. I don’t buy everything that’s “supposed” to be on the table but won’t get eaten. Horseradish and yellow curd cheese aren’t winners here, so no matter how traditional, they won’t make an appearance.
We’ll have ham because we like it, and boiled eggs too—but only as much as we’ll actually eat, so nothing gets reheated three days later. We bake the sweet bread ourselves. It’s not cheaper, but baking together is a shared experience that makes it totally worth it.
What’s Not: Excessive Gift Piles
It took me years to realize Easter doesn’t need to be a mini Christmas. A chocolate bunny, a few surprise eggs, maybe a small toy—that’s enough to make a child happy. The real joy comes from searching together, laughing, and watching their excitement.
Since we’re not expecting visitors beyond close family, there’s no need to overspend. Little cousins get a chocolate egg or bunny, and dad and grandpas will definitely appreciate personalized, hand-painted eggs more than anything else.
As a mom, I want to give my daughter every experience possible, but also teach her that holidays aren’t about overspending. Easter becomes truly memorable when we fill it with shared moments. And nothing beats a day trip, an afternoon of crafting, or cooking together—much more meaningful than another plush bunny or the usual shelf full of kitsch.
