Mother’s Day is fast approaching, and while there are plenty of meaningful gifts available, buying for a new mom can be a challenge. See, new moms receive plenty of baby bottles, onesies, and bibs at their shower, but other than more sleep, what else do they really need? Probably something to help her relax, feel a little cozier, prettier or maybe even something to just let her know that she’s appreciated.
When shopping for first Mother’s Day gifts, there are two routes to take: pretty or practical. A few items on this list of first Mother’s Day gifts fall into both categories (manicures are totally practical, right?). Mothering is no easy task, so let the new mom in your life know how much you (both) love and appreciate her with one of these first Mother’s Day gifts for new moms. (And Mama, if you’re the one reading this, I wholeheartedly endorse leaving this page up on the computer you share with your partner—here’s hoping they’ll take the hint!)
More ideas for first Mother’s Day gifts:
What Moms REALLY Want for Mother’s Day
13 Gifts Pregnant Moms Will Actually Want to Keep
DIY Mother’s Day Cut-out Flowers (Free Template!)
11 First Mother's Day Gift Ideas for the New Mom
Engraved Jewelry
It seems like the obvious choice, but try something like a personalized cuff for mom. This handmade leather bracelet features your special message (shown here with kids' names) and is a sentimental yet trend-right piece. I also love that these are handmade in the USA by another mom!
Buy It: Mountain Feather Designs Price: $35
One-Line-a-Day Journal
My own mom, remembering how difficult it can be to keep up with life when you have little kids, gifted me one of these on my first Mother's Day, and I absolutely love it. A one-line-a-day journal lets you mark down you thoughts to look back on later, but without any stress. That's a must for new moms.
Buy It: Walmart Price: $10
Spa Experience
Whether it's a full spa day, a manicure, or a massage, Mama needs pampering. If you want to go extra romantic, a spa weekend would blow any new mom away. I had a facial recently and I don't know what was better: my glowing skin afterward or the welcome break from the chaos of mom-hood during!
Photo: Getty Images
Stepping Stones
For her first Mother's Day, a friend of mine received stepping stones in their home garden engraved with her twin daughters' names. I'm not big crier, but this made me tear up a bit.
Buy It: Personalization Mall Price: $9.99
Customized Natural Skin Care
Moms of little ones need to be careful about how they treat their own skin. Not only are we super tired and sensitive and desperate in need of TLC from head-to-toe, but we also need to avoid harsh chemicals in order to protect our kids. That's why I love this line of handmade, natural skin care. You can even order custom packaging via the website for an extra-special gift.
Buy It: La Belle Naturelle Price: bath salts shown are $15
2-in-1 Clutch
Is it a diaper bag or is it a makeup tote? There's no need to choose when you can hook Mama up with a fully lined diaper clutch perfect for stashing baby needs and lipstick on-the-go. Remind her that there's still a touch glam in her with a cute multi-functional bag.
Buy It: Etsy Price: $25
A Staycation
Give the new mom in your life the keys to an all-expense-paid hotel stay nearby for the ultimate mini-break.
Photo: Getty Images
Video Camera
These little moments with her baby are fleeting, and smartphones can be so limiting with finite storage capacity. The top item on my wish list this Mother's Day is a little video camera I can stash in my purse to record all the good stuff.
Buy It: Amazon Price: now on sale for $54
Something Handmade by
Nothing is more special than a handmade first Mother's Day gift. Score major points with a customized craft project. A print of baby's feet creating little flowers is perfect—and easier than you think!
Photo: EmmaOwl.com
Mom & Child Photo Shoot
Treating her to a professional mom-and-me photo shoot is an amazing way to mark her first Mother's Day. This is the type of gift that will keep giving for years to come.
Photo: Cristina Lee Photography via Born to be a Bride
Sequin Pillow
Mermaid pillows aren't just a fun decorating trend, they're also a great gift for new moms. When she opens it, she'll think it's just a sparkly addition to her favorite sitting corner, but running her hand over it she'll discover it's personalized with her name, baby's name, favorite quote, or the message of choice.
Buy It: Lily Sue Designs Price: now on sale for $19