Gift baskets offer a world of possibilities for gifts for your girlfriend's mother. Fill a cooking-themed basket with kitchen utensils and cake mix or create a sports-themed basket filled with shirts, hats and banners supporting her favorite team. The key is to select each item with the mom's likes and dislikes in mind. If you are unsure, ask your girlfriend for advice when you select the theme or contents.

A gift certificate isn't just an easy way out when it comes to presenting your girlfriend's mom with a gift. If the gift certificate is personal, then she may appreciate having money set aside that she can allocate to something she enjoys. For example, if you know that she loves getting massages, a gift certificate to her favorite spa will allow her to sample a hot stone massage or to get a manicure or pedicure. The point is that she has control over when and how she chooses the gift; a gift certificate is always a safe and reasonable choice for a gift.

A bouquet of lovely flowers is rarely the wrong way to go if you need a gift. Be sure you are aware of any allergies before buying a bouquet and try to select flowers that showcase your girlfriend's mom's favorite color for a personalized touch. Another option is a house plant such a fern or poinsettia, which carries the advantage of having a longer lifespan than cut flowers. If she enjoys sweet treats, give her chocolate or candy. Avoid giving her only unhealthy treats because overindulgence is not advisable. Instead, mix it up and give her fresh fruit along with chocolates.

Consider giving an active gift such as hot air ballooning or going to a sporting event if you are hoping to impress. According to Psychology Today, a gift involving an experience brings you closer to those who experience the event with you and provides you both with something to reflect upon in the future. If money is no object, consider a weekend trip with your girlfriend and her mother so you can spend some time getting to know each other in a relaxed setting.