May is the month when people open their wallets—get ready now! How to simultaneously target the “Family Month” markets in Korea, the U.S., and Japan to boost sales
✨ “It’s a shame for the maker’s product to be available only in Korea.”
Makers, are you planning to focus solely on domestic projects for May, “Family Month”? In the U.S., “Mother’s Day” is the second-largest spending season after Christmas ($34.1 billion), and in Japan, people give thoughtfully curated “little luxuries” as gifts on “Mother’s Day” (Haha no Hi, 母の日). This coming May will be the biggest opportunity for makers to prove that their innovation can translate into global sales. To help their project become a “global hit,” we’ve compiled consumer data from South Korea, the U.S., and Japan, along with key country-specific strategies.
Have you been wondering, “Should I launch a global funding campaign?” Wadiz, which began 26 years ago under the slogan “The Beginning of Innovation, Wadiz,” offers proposing a “better everyday life” to supporters worldwide—that is innovationto offer “a better everyday life” to supporters worldwide through makers’unique perspectives. If your product delivers the value supporters are looking for, it can succeed on wadiz.
1. “Family Month” Spending Trends in South Korea, the U.S., and Japan
🇰🇷 In Korea, unlike the usual consumer sentiment influenced by economic conditions, there is a strong willingness to spend on family in May. This is characterized by a consumption trend that prioritizes practicality and health. Recently, purchases of travel packages designed for “quality time together” and premium home and tech products have also been on the rise.
🇺🇸 In the U.S., the season with the second-highest spending after Christmasis “Mother’s Day” (the second Sunday in May)! According to a survey by the NRF (National Retail Federation), spending has continued to rise since 2023 and is projected to reach $34.1 billion in 2025, with an average per-person expenditure of $259. U.S. consumers tend to prioritize “thoughtful gifts,” and recently, about half have been are enthusiastic about “unique experiences” and “one-of-a-kind gifts”.
🇯🇵 According to Japan’s“Mother’s Day” specialty media outlet (hahanohi.me), the average budget for“Mother’s Day” (the second Sunday in May) is 4,638 yen—a practical amount— butdemand for “petit luxe” (small luxuries) costing over 5,000 yen has been on the rise recently.The most popular items are flowers, gourmet foods, and sweets, and mobile gift certificates have also been gaining popularity recently. Japan is known for its emphasis on “thoughtfulness .” There is a tendency to prefer gifts and meals that symbolize a mother’s dedication and express gratitude toward her.
Wondering how to prepare your project for Family Month?Maker's 24-hour AI partner, WAi! (Try copying and pasting the question below exactly as it is.) 💻 Today’s prompt: I’m planning to launch a project for Family Month. Give me some good tips.  |
2. Mother’s Day: What Gifts Work in the U.S. and Japan?
🇺🇸 U.S.: Unique experiences that make a mother’s day special
Insights
- In the U.S. market, consumers focus less on product specifications "What value and change will this product bring to my life?".
- Incorporate the concept of “pampering” and offer a moment of relaxation for women—not just as mothers, but as individuals.
- Since 48% of consumers are looking for unique gifts, the “innovation” and “exclusivity” inherent to crowdfunding become powerful assets.
- People tend to purchase gifts 1–2 weeks before Mother’s Day. Time your global project launch and Rewards shipping accordingly.
Ideas
- We recommend the K-Wellness Ritual Kit, which combines Korean-style gua sha with aromatherapy to deliver a “perfect 20-minute home spa” experience.
🇯🇵 Japan: Luxurious gifts that evoke subtle emotion
Insights
- In Japan, Mother’s Day gifts typically cost around 5,000 yen. within a budget of around 5,000 yen,.
- To align with the sentiment that values “who made it and how,” boost credibility with stories that highlight the manufacturing process and craftsmanship.
- When planning your Rewards, be sure to include “individually wrapped” items that prioritize hygiene and practicality, as well as “packaging details” that create a memorable unboxing experience.
- Given the custom of giving gifts to mothers-in-law as well, universal and refined designs that appeal to everyone are advantageous.
Ideas
- Try proposing a set of bite-sized premium traditional Korean sweetsthat pair well with matcha, or pouches and keychains embroidered with traditional patternsinspired by Japan’s komono (small personal items) culture.
Are you preparing new items for Family Month?
Not only domestic supporters but also international supporters are actively purchasing gifts for Family Month.
Wadiz has made it easier than ever to launch campaigns simultaneously in Korea and globally with just one click. We’ve provided everything you need to get started easily—even if you’re new to global funding—including AI translation, international shipping partners, and a global funding guide!