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Picture it: your mom, the superhero of your life, the master of multitasking, the queen of everything, is about to be celebrated on her special day. Now, imagine if you nailed it with the perfect gift. We’re talking about the kind of gift that makes her eyes light up, or her heart skip a beat, the kind that makes her do a little happy dance right there in the living room. But at the end of the day, it’s all about the feels. It’s about making her feel loved and appreciated. That, my friend, is the magic of finding the perfect Mother’s Day gift.
Whether it’s your mom, or someone that’s like a mom, they really are the best. While it doesn’t have to take a special day to celebrate how wonderful they are, there are definitely times when we need to go the extra mile and come up with the perfect gift. After all, it goes without saying that she’s one of the most important people in your life.
Maybe you’ll be hand delivering a gift, or maybe you need to send them something from across the miles. Either way, we’ve chosen 12 gift ideas that will let her know she’s always in your thoughts.
The good thing? These gifts can work for any type of mom, from the new mom who needs five minutes to herself with an eye mask, to the mom of four who just wants to hide in a closet with her own snacks for a few minutes (hours?). From gifting experiences, to sending personalized gifts with heartfelt messages, these will remind her just how much you love her – any time of year, but especially this Mother’s Day!
BROSTRICK'S SELECTION PROCESS
INTERESTS
I always try to consider what they enjoy doing in their free time. Whether it’s gardening, cooking, reading, or painting, a gift related to her hobbies is a nice way to show attention to her interests.
SENTIMENTAL
I love a gift with sentimental value. This could be something like a personalized piece of jewelry, a meaningful framed photo, or even a handwritten letter expressing your love and appreciation.
PRACTICALITY
I try to think of items that could make her daily life easier or more enjoyable, like a kitchen gadget she’s been eyeing, a cozy blanket, or a subscription to a service she loves or uses.
LONG DISTANCE
I included ideas that will brighten your mom’s day, even if you can’t be there in person. Sending gourmet foods, sweet treats and even experiences can hit the mark from across the miles.
OUR TOP GIFT IDEAS
Solgaard Carry-On Closet
For the traveler
PROS
- Shelves and pockets for organization
- Eco-chic vibes
- Built-in USB charger
CONS
- Price tag pinch
- Size matters - may not be ideal for over packers
- Not great for bulky items
This is on my personal wish list this year. With upcoming vacations, college tours, hockey tournaments and more, my old luggage has had it, and I’m intrigued with the shelving, closet-like design. Aside from functionality, the available colors are amazing – from understated, timeless neutrals, to the sleek precious metals collection. I typically challenge myself to go carry-on only, so this would be ideal if I can get away with packing light. This might not be the business for cold weather get-aways that require a lot of bulkier clothes, but hey, there’s always the larger size!
The innovative design with shelves and pockets really helps to keep your threads organized. But this bad boy isn’t just stylish—it’s sustainable too. It’s crafted from recycled ocean plastic which I think is a bit of a win-win. Although the irony of gassing up the car, or boarding a 757 with sustainable luggage isn’t lost on me. And in the name of convenience, charging your gadgets on the go just got a whole lot easier. This carry-on comes equipped with a built-in USB charger, so you can keep your phone, tablet, or e-reader juiced up while you’re on the move.
Nodpod Weighted Eye Blanket
For the light sleeper
PROS
- May help promote relaxation
- Soft and plush
- Versatile - take it just about anywhere
CONS
- Sensory overload - might be too much for some
- Pink sells out quickly (other colors available)
- Some might think it's a bit overpriced
I own one of these weighted eye pillows and really love it. One of my daughters also tries to steal it on the regular when she needs a few minutes to relax and regroup, or has a headache. It’s one of the first things I toss into my bag when I have to travel, because let’s face it, you never know what you’re going to get once you try to head off to dreamland in a hotel room.
The dual sided texture allows you to choose between cotton jersey or microfiber fleece, and the pull through loop works well even for side sleepers. This eye blanket, along with your AirPods, music, meditation app, or complete and total silence are like a mini vacation. Goodbye cruel world!
The Nodpod’s four equally weighted eye pods (ha!) contour to your face and apply gentle weight and what I find to be soothing pressure to your eyes, which can help you drift off. It’s like a mini spa treatment for your tired peepers.
Whether you’re catching z’s at home, on a plane, or in a hotel room from hell this can help you settle. With all of that being said, while the gentle pressure of the Nodpod can work wonders for relaxation, it might not be everyone’s cup of chamomile tea, as some folks might find the sensation of weight on their eyes a bit too much to handle, especially if they’re sensitive to pressure or claustrophobic. It’s all about finding what feels good for you.
The Original Bogg Bag
For the boat, tote, and beach goer
PROS
- Roomy and durable
- Water-resistant
- A breeze to clean
CONS
- Larger size might be too bulky for everyday use
- High price point for budget conscious
From where I sit, these are still all the rage – and with good reason. The Original Bogg Bag is a beachgoer’s dream, with its spacious design and durable construction. They can pack it full of towels, sunscreen, snacks, and even a beach read or two – there’s room for just about everything. And if enjoying a solitary, peaceful day at the beach is laughable because she’s got all of her kids in tow, this is roomy enough for all of their stuff too.
I think it’s an added plus that you can choose from a rainbow of colors to suit every beach goer’s taste – there are so many options available. Its water-resistant material means the kids can kick sand on it (you know they will), or splash it with ocean, lake or pool water – without worrying. Not to mention, cleaning is a breeze.
Murray's Cheese
For the charcuterie lover
PROS
- Great selection of cheeses
- Variety of price points
- Convenient - ship it righ to their doorstep
CONS
- Need to factor in shipping time and conditions
- Overwhelming variety
Shipping food is always my go-to under a variety of circumstances. It’s perfect if you’re not able to see someone in person, but I also like to gift treats to someone who already seems to have everything and really doesn’t need “anything else.” Murray’s offers an array of artisanal cheeses from around the globe – from creamy bries to sharp cheddars and everything in between, there’s a cheese for every cheese lover’s taste bud.
With just a few clicks, you can have a great gift delivered right to their doorstep. While the option above serves 4-6 and is perfect for having pals over for a wine and cheese night (but no judgment if they don’t want to share), there are so many other options and sizes available. Including meltable cheeses. Just be sure to take into consideration shipping time. In other words try not to wait until the last minute (if possible).
Softies Marshmallow Lounge Set
For the comfort queen
PROS
- Soft, cozy and comfortable
- Easy to clean
- Stylish and cute
CONS
- Sizing can be tricky
- Limited colors available
I gifted this to a few ladies (including my mother) this past holiday season, and everyone was very happy with this set. They raved about how soft it is, and how comfortable it is. While there is a limited color selection, I was able to purchase a pink, a blue and a green – so I didn’t have to worry about duplicates (although, I honestly don’t think that’s a big deal). My mother washes her clothes much more regularly than your average Joe, and this set has held up for her very well so far.
Made from ultra-soft fabric that feels as fluffy as a cloud (and gets softer over time), they’ll look forward to throwing this on for lazy Sundays, movie marathons, or just curling up with a good book and a cup of coffee or cocoa.
Herbs in the Burbs Herb Garden Starter Kit
For the gardener
PROS
- Fresh ingredients at home
- Green thumb confidence - easy to grow
- Space saving for those short on space
CONS
- Patience is key - takes time to grow
- Herbivore hazards - make sure pets are safe
I love this idea for a little thought, that’s also useful and rewarding. I might be a bit impartial though, as I’m the type that typically has herbs on the windowsill in my kitchen. I really think adding fresh herbs can make a difference. While it’s not always practical for everyone to have an herb garden at their fingertips all the time, this is a great way to incorporate the idea some of the time.
With this starter kit, they can grow their own flavorful herbs right in the comfort of their own home. From zesty basil and thyme to aromatic parsley and cilantro (non-gmo), it’s like having their own personal herb garden oasis, minus the pesky weeds. It’s also the perfect solution for beginners, urban dwellers, apartment dwellers, or anyone with limited gardening space.
Gorjana Amara Ring Set
For the stackable ring fan
PROS
- Stackable or wear individually
- Versatile elegance
- High quality and durable materials
CONS
- Care rand maintenance may be necessary
- Finding the right size could be tricky
My daughters have a few pieces from Gorjana and not only are they simple, dainty and pretty, they’ve held up amazingly well. I feel pretty confident that the odds are they’ll lose a piece before anything ever breaks. And because the pieces are so simple, they’re appropriate for every day wear and truly go well with any occasion. They’ve dressed it up, and dressed it down.
I find that so many of these pieces add an understated elegance to any outfit, whether they’re dressing up for a night out or keeping it casual for brunch with the squad. Mom’s have squads too, right? Right. And the Gorjana Amara Ring Set delivers in spades. Crafted from high-quality materials with attention to detail, these rings are not only versatile, they’re built to last.
Apple Watch SE (2nd Generation) GPS + Cellular
For the Apple User
PROS
- Keeps you connected on all levels
- Fitness fanatic's dream
- Functional, but with sleek style
CONS
- Requires iPhone XS or later with latest iOS version
- Need a cellular plan for full cellular functionality
I have and wear the SE daily. It took me a minute to jump on the bandwagon, but once I did, I didn’t look back. I was updating my Verizon plan a few years back and they handed me a free Apple watch. It was April 1st, and I thought they were fooling. But, it was legit and once I got everything set up, I was off and running. Literally. I’m a gym goer and love the fitness options. I also like being able to glance down at my watch when a text comes in to ensure it’s not an urgent message from my kids. You know, like “Can you tell me if my Amazon package arrived?” and “How do I get gas if I only have cash?”
With built-in fitness tracking features, including heart rate monitoring, workout tracking, and activity rings to keep them motivated, it’s like having a personal trainer on their wrist. Not to mention features to help keep them safe, like fall detection, crash detection, health trackers, and emergency SOS. Whether they’re hitting the pavement for a run, hitting the mat for yoga, or hitting the trails for a hike, the Apple Watch SE has their back (or wrist). But with great power, comes great responsibility, so remind mom to charge her watch!
Levain Bakery 2 Chip Chocolate Chip Cookies
For the sweet tooth
PROS
- It's cookies! Delicious
- Variety of flavors to choose from
- Vegan and GF options
CONS
- Need to be aware of food sensitivities and allergies
- Shipping snafus - Consider shipping time and weather
I’ve gifted these to people in the past – from adults to kids, and everyone is always happy with these cookies. Not only are they delicious, they’re a decent size. In other words, it’s easy peasy to split a cookie with another chocolate chip enthusiast. So while you can opt for a larger package (of 8 or 12), I find that the four pack is enough without being too much, depending on the recipient(s) of course.
Levain Bakery’s signature cookie features gooey centers and crispy edges. They’re baked to golden perfection, with a soft and chewy texture that melts in your mouth like butter. Whether they’re a fan of the classic gooey center or the crispy outer shell, these cookies deliver a taste that’s sure to satisfy even the most discerning cookie connoisseur. There are variety packs, additional flavors, and vegan and GF options available as well.
YETI 20 Oz Rambler
For coffee on the run
PROS
- Hot stuff, hotter longer
- Built to last
- Wide variety of colors and customization options
CONS
- Deciding on the right size
- High price point
I’m embarrassed to say how many of these we have in my house. In my humble opinion, these are hands down, the best travel coffee mugs. I’ve used this mug to keep my coffee hot for years, (well, over the years, not the same cup of coffee for years) and through countless hockey games in the coldest of rinks. And my coffee is always still hot when I get to the sad last drop. I also love that if you order directly from YETI, these are customizable. And if you happened to be strolling through the internet and stumbled across the greatest gift guide for mom on the web (this one) around Mother’s Day, YETI is running a limited special for free customization.
In addition to keeping your hot beverage hot and your cold beverage cold for extended periods of time, these are also dishwasher safe, fit into your average car cup holder with ease, are double-wall vacuum insulated and splash resistant. Phew!
Oofos Women's OOahh Slide Sandal
For comfort and recovery
PROS
- Cloud-like comfort
- Recovery magic
- Simple design
CONS
- Sizing snags, can be tough to find the right size
- Not the most budget friendly option out there
- Waterlogged woes - can hold onto water
Let’s bring back house slippers. Almost everyone in my family owns a pair of these – guys and gals. Some use them for recovery after running, hockey or other sports, and some simply use them for comfort. Either way, the consensus here is that these slides are comfortable.
They’re like a little spa day for your feet, with patented OOfoam technology that absorbs 37% more impact than traditional foam footwear – and also feature a patented footbed that may help minimize stress on joints, ankles and knees They come in a variety of colors, whole sizes for women and men, and drumroll please….are machine washable!
HyperChiller
For the Iced coffee fanatic
PROS
- Instant icy indulgence
- Zero dilution drama
- Versatile - from coffee to cocktails
CONS
- Capacity cap - limited amount of liquid
- Chills hot beverages better than cold or room temp
I love that this chills your coffee so quickly. And the fact that I don’t have to deal with any dilution is a game changer for me. While it’s entirely possible to add some ice to your hot coffee, it just doesn’t come out great. This eliminates that watery iced coffee vibe that makes it so much less enjoyable.
This is easy to use, easy to clean and works its magic quickly – transforming piping hot coffee into a refreshing cold brew, or room-temperature wine into a crisp and chilled delight in about 60 seconds. Whatever your beverage of choice might be, the HyperChiller cools your drinks to perfection – all without diluting their flavor.
MasterClass Online Classes
For the mom who always wants to learn
PROS
- A List instructors
- Flexible learning schedule
- Wide range of courses
CONS
- Some courses are expensive
- Interaction and hands on learning can be limited
I think this can be such a cool idea for the mom that already has it all, or the mom who constantly loves to learn new things. Whether she wants to brush up or further her knowledge in a area she is somewhat familiar with, or is looking to take on a new hobby, she can say goodbye to rigid schedules and hello to flexible learning vibes.
With MasterClass, they’ll have access to lessons taught by some of the best and brightest in their fields, from award-winning actors to world-renowned chefs to legendary athletes. Whether they’re honing their acting chops with Natalie Portman or mastering the art of cooking with Gordon Ramsay, they’ll learn from the masters themselves and gain invaluable insights. She can learn at her own pace and on her own schedule, whether she’s a night owl burning the midnight oil, or an early bird seizing the day.
