I don’t know about you, but I often find it hard to ask for things that I “want.” So when people like my hubby and mom ask what I’d like for my birthday, or for Mother’s Day, I often gravitate toward the things I need. (Honestly, let’s be real, sometimes I just *need* a nap, or a clean house). And while a clean house is very much welcome as a gift, I think it’s also important to pamper and shower our mamas with gifts come Mother’s Day. But you don’t have to break the bank to do so either.
So, here’s a list of things that I think any mother would love for Mother’s Day — in addition to the free stuff you can give her too, like homemade coupon books and a nap.
Hint: most of these gifts are about pampering. Because honestly, the one thing I know I want (and I’m guessing other mothers do too)?A relaxing day — with a nice balance of alone time as well as time with my little family.
(Some affiliate links below).
1. Manicure
There’s something supremely relaxing about someone doing your nails (and it’s not just because they often include a hand massage). Plus, pretty nail colors!
2. Necklace
Jewelry is always a welcome gift, but there are ways of making it more personalized. Perhaps give a birthstone necklace, or a necklace made from breast milk (seriously!). Or a necklace etched with the children’s names.
3. Photo book
Create a keepsake using photos from the past year or so with sites like Shutterfly. As I’ve heard (and I agree with), the days can be long, but the years short. And it can be fun to be nostalgic.
4. Movie ticket
Sometimes mama just wants some ‘me’ time and a solo movie ticket is a great way to do just that.
5. Lunch gift card
To go with that movie ticket, perhaps give her a lunch card to her favorite restaurant. After all, the gift of enjoying lunch without being in a rush is priceless.
6. Water bottle (with flavor infuser)
Keep mama hydrated, no matter how busy she is, with a water bottle. What makes this bottle different is that you can infuse the water with fruit, making it even easier to drink plenty of water.
7. Fun Coffee Mug
Chances are mom’s other fuel is in the form of coffee. Get a fun mug that will also bring a smile to her face. Etsy has lots of options, like a mug that says “mom, you’re a freakin rockstar.”
8. Makeup
Eye shadow. Lipstick. Lip liner. When it comes to makeup, there’s lots of fun and easy goodies to pick out that don’t require color matching! (But if you need help picking something out, just let me know)
9. Leggings
If she’s anything like me, she lives in leggings most days. While Lularoe leggings are a bit more than $20, they are so buttery soft, and it’s a gift you can’t go wrong with.
10. Journal
There are lots of things for mom to remember, and there is a lot she thinks about — her dreams, for her, for her kids, for her family. Give her a place to write it all down with a beautiful journal.
11. Snack box
Moms tend to share food with the little ones. Get her a snack box that’s all hers with something like this from Harry and David.
12. Pasta meal (aka, a night off from cooking)
On Mother’s Day, give her a gift she really wants – a night off cooking. Make some pasta for her and the kiddos, and plan to enjoy it all together.
13. Chocolate
Don’t forget dessert. But maybe give her this gift after the kids go to bed.
14. Bubble Bath
One of the most relaxing things for a mom to do is to take some time to herself. A bubby bath — like a lavender chamomile — is a lovely way to do just that.
15. Bath Salts
Bubbles not your mama’s cup of tea? Bath salts are also wonderfully relaxing as they offer a variety of soothing smells.
16. Candles
Help your mom set a relaxing mood with a candle or two in some of her favorite scents. Propensity Candles make a great gift; not only are they handpoured but they profit women who recently were resettled from refugee camps.
17. Bottle of Wine
This one needs no explanation.
18. Stemless glasses
If mom already has plenty of wine, get her some new, cute, wine glasses to go with it — like these “Mommy’s sippy cup” glasses.
19. Flowers
Spring has sprung, and a beautiful colorful bouquet is a simple but welcome gesture. (That goes well with the wine… or the chocolate. Take your pick!
20. “Year of Yes,” by Shonda Rhimes
Whether she’s a fan of TGIT shows from Shonda Rhimes, this is a book a lot of moms can love. Rhimes’s book is all about tossing fear out the window, dancing it out, and finding yourself — something a lot of moms can relate to. I know I can.
I hope this list helped you pick out a gift, or two, for the special mama in your life. Have your own ideas to add? Share them in the comments below!
