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Your mom friends deserve a little extra love this Mother's Day. They’re always there with support, advice, and laughter, even when life gets chaotic.
These women balance motherhood and friendship, which isn’t easy. That’s exactly why they deserve thoughtful gifts that celebrate both sides of who they are.
Finding a great Mother's Day gift for mom friends is a bit of an art. You want something personal, but not too much, and it should fit her busy life and personality.
It’s about showing you care without going overboard—something that feels just right.
This guide covers a range of ideas, from personalized keepsakes and self-care treats to creative DIY gifts and quick last-minute options.
Whether your friend is a wellness buff, a working mom, or just that person who seems to have everything, you’ll find ways here to show you appreciate her—no more boring cards or basic bouquets.
Picking out gifts for mom friends means seeing them for who they are—caring mothers and true friends. The best gifts nod to both their daily struggles and the special friendship you share.
Mom friends are the ones who get it. They know what it’s like when plans fall through because of sick kids or surprise school events.
They’re there for last-minute babysitting, swapping advice, and just listening when things get tough. Nobody understands quite like another mom friend.
Here’s why they deserve a little extra:
Sometimes, their friendship is the thing that keeps you afloat. A thoughtful gift is a small way to say thank you for always being there.
When you’re picking a gift, try to remember both sides of your friend. It should feel special to her as a friend, but also recognize her as a mom.
Steer clear of gifts that are just about her kids or parenting. You want her to feel seen as a whole person.
Some tips that work:
She deserves to be recognized for everything she is—not just “mom.”
Mom friends switch hats all day long. One minute they’re your confidant, the next they’re wrangling kids.
The best gifts fall into three main buckets, each showing you get what she’s juggling.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Type | Friend Focus | Mom Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Self-care items | Personal relaxation | Stress relief from parenting |
| Experience gifts | Friendship bonding | Break from routine |
| Practical luxuries | Individual enjoyment | Makes daily life easier |
The best gifts make her feel seen for everything she does. Not just as a mom, and not just as a friend.
This year’s top Mother's Day gifts include personalized jewelry, luxury skincare sets, and cozy home must-haves.
Classic favorites like spa sets and photo albums are still going strong. But for 2025, wellness gadgets and eco-friendly finds are getting a lot of buzz.
Editors at big-name sites have picked their favorites for 2025. CNN’s team shared 42 gifts they’ve actually given or gotten.
Personalized jewelry is everywhere this year. Custom name necklaces and birthstone rings are thoughtful, and moms love them.
Luxury skincare sets are another hit. Brands like La Mer and SK-II make gift boxes just for Mother’s Day.
Tech is creeping into the mix, too. Smart speakers and fitness trackers are perfect for moms who like gadgets.
Southern Living’s editors are loving handmade candles and artisan food boxes this year. It’s a nice change from the usual flowers.
Some gifts never go out of style. Spa and wellness goodies are always a hit for Mother’s Day.
Bath and body sets from favorites like Bath & Body Works are everywhere in May. Scented lotions, bath bombs, and candles turn her bathroom into a mini spa.
Photo gifts are still super popular. Custom books, framed prints, or canvas collages help keep memories close.
Jewelry is a safe bet, too. Simple gold chains, pearl earrings, or charm bracelets work for most moms.
Home decor like throw pillows or vases lets her refresh her space. These gifts are pretty and practical.
Kitchen gadgets are always around, too. Think nice cutting boards, tea sets, or utensils for moms who like to cook.
This year, a lot of people are looking for gifts that focus on wellness and the planet. Amazon’s trending picks are all about health and sustainability.
Wellness tech is big in 2025. Sleep trackers, meditation app subscriptions, and essential oil diffusers help moms take care of themselves.
Eco-friendly gifts are everywhere. Reusable water bottles, organic robes, and green cleaning products are great for moms who care about the environment.
Subscription boxes are another fun trend. Monthly surprises with books, coffee, or beauty treats keep the celebration going.
Experience gifts are having a moment. Cooking classes, spa days, and weekend trips make memories instead of clutter.
Plants are on the rise, too. Succulents, herb kits, or flowering pots are low-maintenance and brighten up any space.
Custom jewelry with birthstones or names makes a lasting keepsake for mom friends. Photo gifts—like crystal displays or custom frames—capture your favorite moments together.
Monogrammed accessories add a little extra thoughtfulness, too. These touches show you really know her.
Personalized mom necklaces with heart pendants can hold up to six names and birthstones. It’s a sweet way to keep her family close.
Some popular picks:
Name bracelets in sleek bar designs are great for daily wear. She’ll think of you every time she puts it on.
Monogrammed wine glasses or tote bags add a personal twist to everyday items. An initial canvas tote is perfect for errands and shows off her style.
3D crystal photo displays turn favorite photos into glowing keepsakes. Heart-shaped crystals on wooden LED bases look stunning anywhere.
Other thoughtful keepsakes:
Personalized throw blankets are both cozy and meaningful. Fleece designs with family photos wrap her in warmth and memories.
Custom plaques with sweet messages and wooden hearts for each family member make a heartfelt display. The mix of acrylic and wood looks classic and lasts for years.
Photo watches are a rare find—practical and sentimental at the same time. Gold-plated, water-resistant designs with custom photo dials are a daily reminder of family.
Personalized moon lamps bring a little magic, too. LED lights and laser-engraved photos set the mood, and you can change the colors with a remote.
More creative photo ideas:
Personalized puzzle art frames combine sweet messages with family photos. Canvas prints with puzzle pieces and the phrase "Mom, you are the piece that holds us together" are especially touching.
Custom photo books and albums help you save friendship moments in a polished way. High-quality printing means these keepsakes will last and be treasured.
The most meaningful Mother's Day gifts come from the heart. It’s those personal touches—handwritten notes, memory books, or gifts that honor shared experiences—that really stick with her.
A handwritten letter is still one of the best ways to say thank you. Unlike a text, a real letter is something she can tuck away and read again later.
What makes a letter special? Be specific. Mention a memory, a quality you admire, or a time she was there for you.
A few ideas for what to include:
Handmade cards are another easy way to add a personal touch. Grab some paper, a photo, and a few pens—store-bought cards just can’t compete.
If you’re feeling creative, hide a few notes for her to find throughout the day. Slip one into her mug, her car, or her favorite book for a surprise smile.
Photo books and scrapbooks pull all those scattered memories into something you can actually hold and flip through. Creating personalized keepsakes is a great way to spotlight your favorite moments and milestones.
Digital photo books make things easy. Most services let you upload right from your phone, then just drag and drop with their templates.
Traditional scrapbooks are a bit more hands-on. You can tuck in ticket stubs, handwritten notes, or even pressed flowers alongside your photos.
Popular memory book themes:
Add captions to explain what’s happening in the photos, or why that memory sticks out. It’s those little details that really tell your story together.
The most meaningful gifts usually reference something you’ve done together. Picking out presents that connect to shared activities or inside jokes shows you really notice what makes her happy.
If you both love to cook, maybe go for a personalized cutting board with a family recipe engraved on it. Got a gardening mom? Custom plant markers with her favorite flowers are a sweet touch.
Travel gifts also work well, especially for moms who love a good adventure. Try a custom map of places you’ve visited together, or a photo album from a special trip.
Experience-based gift ideas:
Hobby-related gifts are always solid. Whether she’s into reading, crafting, or fitness, picking something that fits her interests shows you put some real thought into it.
Moms really need time to recharge, even if they rarely take it. Self-care gifts help combat mom burnout and make it easier for her to squeeze in some rest.
A full spa kit can turn her bathroom into a mini retreat. These usually come with bath bombs, scrubs, lotions, and essential oils—everything’s bundled together so she doesn’t have to think about it.
Premium spa gift sets might include organic shea butter, coconut oil, or lavender. Some even toss in reusable extras like loofahs or cute baskets.
Common spa kit goodies:
You can find decent sets for around $25, but the fancier ones can hit $100 or more.
Essential oil diffusers fill the house with calming scents. Waterless models are super low-maintenance and perfect for busy moms.
Lavender, eucalyptus, and chamomile are top picks for relaxation and better sleep. Tea tree and peppermint are nice for a little morning energy.
Aromatherapy gift ideas:
Pairing herbal teas with aromatherapy stuff is a classic move. Chamomile, passionflower, and valerian root teas are especially soothing.
Weighted blankets are a game changer for sleep and stress. Most adults go for one that’s 10-12% of their body weight.
Silk pillowcases and sleep masks are gentle on hair and skin, and they just feel fancy. Bamboo pajamas keep her cool and comfy all night.
Other comfort essentials:
Massage tools like heating pads and massage guns are great for sore muscles, especially if she’s lifting kids or sitting at a desk all day.
Handmade gifts just hit different. There’s something about knowing someone made it just for you—whether it’s a treat from the kitchen or a crafty keepsake.
Baking is a classic way to make a gift that feels special. Fresh cookies, homemade breads, or even simple jams show you put in the effort.
Chocolate chip cookies in cute tins or mason jars with brownie mix look great and taste even better. Plus, they’re easy to pack up and share.
Flavored oils and herb salts are a little more gourmet. Rosemary, orange and thyme flavored herb salt or lemon-infused olive oil can jazz up her everyday meals.
Preserves made with seasonal fruit—like strawberry jam in the spring or apple butter in the fall—add a personal, timely touch.
Handcrafted gifts show off your creativity and thoughtfulness. These often end up displayed proudly around the house.
Teacup candles are a fun way to repurpose vintage cups. They’re cute, practical, and a little nostalgic.
Memory-focused crafts are always a hit:
Air dry clay bowls are simple to make and super handy for holding jewelry or keys.
If she loves her garden, clay garden markers add a sweet, personal touch outside.
Subscription boxes are the gift that keeps on giving. Every month, she gets something new that fits her hobbies or interests.
Craft boxes deliver fresh projects—think jewelry making, painting, or seasonal crafts. Supplies and instructions are all included.
Popular subscription categories:
DIY boxes teach new skills, from knitting to pottery. Some stick to one craft, others mix it up.
Food subscriptions can be a fun surprise—exotic spices, snacks from around the world, or wine pairings for the adventurous mom.
Busy moms appreciate gifts that actually help them out. Practical items that save time or keep life organized are always a win.
A sturdy insulated water bottle or travel mug is a must. Busy moms love these because it means fewer trips to the kitchen for refills.
Meal prep containers with dividers make mornings smoother. She can pack lunches for everyone in advance.
Other time-saving gadgets:
Robot vacuums do the cleaning while she’s busy elsewhere. Some can even be scheduled to run when nobody’s home.
A good blender whips up smoothies in a flash—fruits, veggies, protein powder, done in two minutes.
Planners, whether digital or paper, help keep the chaos in check. Weekly and monthly views are best for juggling family schedules.
Top organizational tools:
A wall-mounted key holder saves time searching for keys. Some even have shelves for mail or sunglasses.
Meal planning boards or apps take the guesswork out of dinner. She can plan the week and pull up a shopping list instantly.
Desktop organizers keep pens, papers, and little things right where she needs them. Multi-tier designs are great for small spaces.
Let’s be honest—flowers are nice, but there’s so much more out there for memorable presents. Creative experiences and personalized artwork last way longer than a bouquet.
Experience gifts are all about making memories. Thoughtful Mother's Day gifts focus on doing something new together, not just giving stuff.
Popular Experience Options:
Art classes are especially fun. Pottery lets her make something useful, and paint-and-sip nights are a good excuse to get creative.
Fun activities with grandma can include shared hobbies or crafts. These are great for multi-generational celebrations.
Concert and theater tickets are always a treat. Some places even offer special Mother's Day shows or workshops throughout the year.
Custom artwork makes any space feel personal. Unique Mother's Day gifts like family photo collages or prints with meaningful quotes are always touching.
Personalized Decor Ideas:
Handmade ceramics—like mugs or vases—add a creative touch to everyday life. Local artists often take custom orders, which is pretty cool.
Digital photo frames rotate through family pictures and update automatically. It’s perfect for keeping everyone connected, even from far away.
Garden stepping stones with handprints make sweet outdoor keepsakes. Kids can help make them, and they’ll last through all kinds of weather.
If you’re running out of time, don’t panic. Meaningful gifts are still within reach thanks to instant digital options or stores with speedy shipping. There are plenty of quality picks left, even if Mother’s Day is just a few days away.
Digital gift cards are a lifesaver for last-minute shoppers. There are plenty of options—spa services, streaming subscriptions, or online shopping platforms that moms can use whenever they want.
Instant Digital Options:
Many retailers have last-minute Mother's Day gifts with express shipping. Amazon Prime can get you next-day delivery on thousands of things.
Target and Walmart offer same-day delivery in lots of areas. That’s a relief when you’re running out of time.
Subscription boxes are a solid fix for urgent gifts. FabFitFun and Birchbox, for example, usually send digital gift notifications straight to her inbox.
Big retailers keep gift-ready items on hand for Mother's Day emergencies. Nordstrom has thoughtful last-minute gifts and you can pick them up in-store within hours.
Ready-to-Ship Categories:
Local florists usually stock up for Mother's Day right through the weekend. Grocery stores often have pre-made gift baskets and floral arrangements, too.
Department stores like Macy's and Bloomingdale's can assemble gifts quickly with personal shopping services. They often have same-day delivery or curbside pickup if you’re really pressed for time.
The best Mother's Day gift comes from knowing what matters to her and planning with your budget in mind. It’s about listening to what she says and setting a limit that feels right for you.
Moms drop hints about what they want during everyday chats. Maybe she mentions her favorite slippers are falling apart or talks about a new hobby she’d like to try.
Notice what catches her eye while shopping together. If she lingers over a certain perfume or says she’d love to learn photography, those are real clues.
Social media can help, too. The posts she likes or shares often show what she wants but might not buy for herself.
Think about her routines and daily challenges. If she’s always on the go, practical gifts like a sleek leather computer sleeve could actually make her mornings easier.
Ask other family members if they’ve heard her mention anything. Siblings or partners might have caught something you missed.
A great gift doesn’t have to break the bank. Gifts under $25 like reusable eye patches can be just as meaningful as pricier ones.
If you want to go bigger, consider pooling money with siblings or family. That way, you can afford something special—like jewelry or a spa day—without stretching yourself too thin.
Budget Categories:
Don’t forget about shipping, gift wrapping, or personalization—they can add 15-20% to the price.
Honestly, the time and thought you put into finding something just for her matters way more than how much you spend.
Finding the right Mother's Day gift is about understanding what moms actually want—not just what we think they want. Practical items usually beat out decorative stuff, and personal touches make even simple gifts stand out.
Mom-approved Mother's Day gifts include things like Wells Lamont water-resistant leather gardening gloves for $16 and Apple AirPods Pro 2 for $169.
The Birdsnap Smart Bird Feeder Camera, at $93, uses AI to identify bird species and snap photos automatically. Cozy Earth pajama sets are great for comfort, especially if she deals with hot flashes.
Voluspa's Mountain Lavender and Chamomile candle is a relaxing pick, and it’s under $40. There’s something here for every budget.
Moms usually appreciate practical and useful gifts over decorative things that just sit around. Think about what she uses every day or what could make her routine easier.
If she’s mentioned needing to replace something—like old gardening gloves or missing earbuds—go for a quality version. Essentials, but nicer.
Consider her hobbies. If she gardens, get durable gloves. If she’s into tech, maybe a smart home gadget.
When a mom says she wants nothing, experiences or services can mean the most. Try hiring a cleaning service or sending meal delivery for a week.
A custom photo book or a memory jar with favorite family moments is a heartfelt choice. It’s more about the thought than the price.
Plan a day together—maybe a museum visit or lunch at her favorite spot. That time together is often the best gift.
Handmade gifts show you care. Put together a recipe book with family favorites and stories about each dish.
Make a playlist of songs that remind you of her, and add notes explaining why you picked each one. It’s a sweet, personal touch.
Or fill a "reasons we love you" jar with notes from everyone in the family. She can pick one out whenever she needs a boost.
Most moms just want to feel recognized for what they do every day. It’s not about expensive gifts.
Quality time with family is usually at the top of their list. Many would rather have a visit from their kids than another package.
Practical gifts that make life easier get used the most. Decorative stuff? It usually just ends up gathering dust.
Living plants, like herbs or small flowering bushes, stick around a lot longer than cut flowers. There’s something special about watching them grow over time—kind of like a little project you both get to enjoy.
Subscription boxes for coffee, tea, or books are a fun idea too. They bring new surprises throughout the year, so the gift keeps popping up long after the holiday.
Body care items, like Osea Undaria Algae Body Oil, can feel like a real treat. It’s hydrating and adds a bit of luxury that moms might not usually buy for themselves.
