It's not always easy shopping for the perfect Mother's Day present. But it doesn't have to be a head-scratching, sweat-inducing endeavour either. Forget the standard flowers and chocolate (unless of course they're her faves!). There are a myriad of ways to show your appreciation. It's all in the approach. First there's the personal touch: something you've made or that evokes a wonderful memory for the two of you. Or - you can go for beauty, choosing an eye-catching object that she'll admire for years to come. Novel gifts are great because they're humourous, charming and unexpected. Of course, moms are known for putting everyone else ahead of themselves, so why not buy her something completely indulgent? Or you can go a completely different route and buy her something practical that she either needs or is bound to use. And practical doesn't have to mean boring or unimaginative. Look at her interests, tastes or hobbies for inspiration. Are the wheels turning yet? To get you going, here are 10 suggestions for making this Mother's Day one she'll never forget.

Personalized canvas
Forget the customized photo albums and coffee table books. We think this option tops them both! Turn your photos into gorgeous wall art with a gift from CanvasPop. Whether you make it a single canvas or several panels, reproduce it as-is or add colour and texture, exercise your inner Van Gogh to give mom a one-of-a-kind gift. CanvasPop, $30-$419.
Pierced tea light holder
These sweet tea light covers add a little sparkle to the room as light dances through the tiny holes. Made of hand-crafted porcelain, they come with or without the heart. Etsy.com, $44-$55.
Handbag hanger
Here's a gem of an idea! These Swarovski crystal hangers are the perfect solution to the perennial female dilemma: where to put your purse when you go out? Slip this little piece of perfection onto any tabletop and suspend your handbag above the dirty floor and well within arm's reach. Brilliant! Horchow, $28.
Gift cakelet pan
Is your mom more Martha Stewart than Martha Stewart? Does she like to express her creativity in the kitchen? Then this cake pan is for her! She can turn her favourite cake recipe into mini gift-wrapped packages that are a cinch to decorate. Party guests won't beleive her when she tells them they're homemade. Williams-Sonoma, $36.
Orchids in a clear glass cube
Mother's Day is the busiest day of the year for flower shops, which makes these orchids an attractive alternative. With a lifespan of one to three months, they'll remind mom of you long after her special day has passed. Pottery Barn, $39.
Round coco mirror
Okay - so a mirror may be an unusual gift choice for mom but it's perfect for the decorista! If she's got a wall that she's been dying to fill, then this light and airy piece may be just the thing. Made with coconut leaves and beads it modernizes and brightens any room. West Elm, $199.
Tira glass vase
These elegant teardrop vases will add a pop of rich colour to a living room or kitchen, dining room table or office desk. Available in teal, purple or smoke, there's bound to be a colour to pelase mom's discerning eye. Pop a gorgeous yellow flower in them to accentuate their appeal. Urban Barn, $32-$40.
Jessie Steele apron chef
No doubt Mother's Day is the one day of the year mom won't be wearing this gift! But if she's happiest playing hostess, then you can't go wrong with this sophisticated chef's apron. Between the flattering feminine cut and the rich damask print, she'll be picture-perfect as she brings out her most mouthwatering dishes for guests. Layla Grace, $30.
Speaker beach cooler with MP3 player
Summer's coming! So make sure mom's ready with this super-cool tote. Not only will it hold cold drinks and snacks, it comes complete with a plug-in for your iPod. White or striped with espresso faux leather detailing, it's music to our ears! Pottery Barn, $89.
Gianna Rose robin's egg soap and dish
We couldn't help but be taken in by the natural beauty of these little egg-shaped soaps in robin's egg blue. These nestlings are infused with exfoliating wheat bran and scented with chamomile and meadowsweet fragrance. Isn't Mother Nature grand? Layla Grace, $24.