One major milestone in the first year of parenthood? Mother’s Day, of course. And a new mom deserves a standout first Mother’s Day gift.
Arguably, the best way to show some love to a new mom is to give her a day off to enjoy some hard-earned alone time. Self-care is not underrated! Of course, a thoughtful present will also do the trick. Don’t worry—first Mother’s Day gift ideas don’t have to be over-the-top or even expensive. There are tons of options available from inexpensive artwork and pampering products to high-end birthstone jewelry and pampering skincare.
As a reminder, Mother’s Day takes place on the second Sunday of May each year, so shop early to avoid disappointment. Not sure where to begin your search? We’ve done the browsing for you, and gathered gift ideas that are dedicated to the first-timers—the unspeakably exhausted but deliriously happy new moms. Whether you’re shopping for your partner, your sister or a friend, you’re sure to find the ideal present to celebrate the new mom in your life. Pro tip: If you’re looking for a bargain, there are plenty of awesome Mother’s Day sales happening ahead of the holiday.
First Mother’s Day Gifts for Mothers-to-be
Expectant moms deserve to celebrate Mother’s Day too—so why not pick up a little something to show you’re just as excited about the journey ahead. From craft kits that’ll keep Mom busy in the run up to her due date to ultrasound art and a bouquet of fresh flowers, here you’ll find the perfect gift for moms-to-be.
Image: Courtesy Expectful
Expectful Gift Certificate
Encourage her to get some much-needed zen time with Expectful. The meditation app has specialized programs for every stage of the parenting journey, from preconception and pregnancy to motherhood.
Buy it: Starting from $30, Expectful.com
Image: Courtesy Cake Maternity
Cake Maternity Gateau Robe
A maternity robe is a fail-proof first Mother’s Day gift. And we love this pick from Cake Maternity, which can be worn during all three trimesters and beyond. Made from a super-soft knit material, this robe has deep pockets for storing binkies, a phone and whatever else Mom might need close at hand.
Image: Courtesy Cratejoy
Oh Baby Box
A pregnancy subscription box is the gift that keeps on giving—literally! And the Oh Baby Box is one of the best options out there. Each package includes up to eight full-size products, that are pregnancy-safe and tailored to a mom’s due date. Head to Cratejoy and use code NEWMOMS20 to get 20 percent off your first shipment.
Buy it: $40 for one box, Cratejoy.com
Image: Courtesy Fujifilm
Fujifilm Instax Mini 7+ Camera
Here’s a first Mother’s Day gift that’s a real slam dunk: A retro polaroid camera. This stylish and compact camera allows a mom-to-be to capture and print special moments in real time. Trust us, she’ll love snapping pictures of her growing bump. Bonus: This camera comes with a 10-pack of Instax Mini film.
Buy it: Fujifilm Instax Mini 7+ Camera - Light Pink, $59, Walmart.com
Image: Courtesy UrbanStems
UrbanStems The Ellington Bouquet
A bouquet of flowers is a classic first Mother’s Day gift. Fresh-cut flowers look beautiful, smell divine and add a splash of color to your home. Choose from the wonderful selection of bouquets at UrbanStems and have them delivered right to Mom’s door.
Image: Courtesy Moon Babe Blankets
Moon Babe Blankets All Eyes Blanket
Still searching for a just-right Mother’s Day gift? If she’s all about aligning her chakras and crystal healing, she’ll adore this well-intentioned present. Crafted from recycled cotton, this blanket is imbued with positive vibes for a happy mom and baby.
Image: Courtesy Ilado Store
IladoStore Maternity Necklace on Cord
Next up is a first Mother’s Day gift from the Best of Pregnancy award-winning jewelry brand Ilado. Inspired by Mayan tradition, this necklace emits a soothing chime that’s supposed to help moms bond with baby in the womb. The necklace rolls back and forth as she moves, giving off musical vibrations baby can feel and hear. Newborns may even recognize the familiar sound, helping to ease the transition after birth. How cool is that?
Image: Courtesy Shoott
Shoot Photoshoot
Looking for thoughtful first Mother’s Day gift ideas? Treat your partner, friend or daughter to a maternity photoshoot. Shoot is an online platform that connects you with a local photographer for a free 30 minute session. The best part? You only pay for the photos you truly love. Bonus: Opt for a Shoott x Shutterfly Bundle to receive a free photo book.
Buy it: Starting from $30, Shoott.com
Image: Courtesy Natalist
Natalist The TLC Trio
Natalist creates pampering essentials for expectant moms with a net-zero plastic footprint. This trio of products nourishes and soothes with a pregnancy-safe tea to combat nausea, a moisturizing belly oil and a cooling cream designed to revitalize swollen feet and ankles.
Buy it: $58, Natalist.com
Image: Courtesy We Are Knitters
We Are Knitters Acide Blanket Knitting Kit
How about DIY Mother’s Day gifts for mothers to be? Crafty ladies will be delighted to receive this super-easy knitting kit. It contains all the supplies needed to make a gorgeous, handmade baby blanket. Knit it yourself, or present it as a creative gift that’ll help a mama pass the time during the final trimester.
Image: Courtesy Hello Am
Hello Am Baby Ultrasound Art
Turn baby’s ultrasound into a beautiful piece of art with the help of this Etsy seller. Lovingly rendered in ink and paper, your photo of choice will be customized with a dreamy watercolor effect. It’s proof that the perfect pregnant Mother’s Day gift does exist.
Buy it: Starting from $43, Etsy.com
Image: Courtesy HATCH Collection
Hatch Collection The Pregnancy Glow Bundle
Pregnancy-safe skincare is a must. But it can be tricky for a self-confessed beauty junkie to give up all her lotions and potions in favor of a pared-back routine. So why not treat her to this gorgeous pregnancy glow bundle from HATCH? It includes an antioxidant-rich facial oil and a pregnancy-safe serum with anti-aging properties, which acts as an alternative to retinol. Trust us, this is one Mother’s Day gift expectant moms will thank you for.
Image: Courtesy Perytong
Perytong Store Wireless Sleep Headphones
Everyone knows about the exhaustion that comes with a newborn. But between hormonal changes, joint pain and limited sleep positions, expectant moms can struggle to drift off too. Help a mama out with these Best of Pregnancy award-winning headphones. The soft, headband design is super-comfortable, and the ultra-thin speakers help block out ambient noise while she listens to her favorite meditation app or music.
As it’s her first time celebrating Mother’s Day, it’s worth going the extra mile for a new mom. After all, pregnancy and parenting is filled with highs and lows that deserve a little recognition (if we do say so ourselves!). Remember she’ll probably get lots of baby gear at her shower, so opt for something that’ll pamper and spoil her—from luxury bedding to keepsake journals. Here, you’ll find unbeatable first Mother’s Day gift ideas.
Image: Eberjey
Eberjey Gisele Long PJ Set
Have sweats and an oversize tee been Mom’s uniform as of late? Treat her to luxe, ultra-comfy pajamas that’ll make her feel at ease but put together whenever she slips them on. Plus, thanks to the button-down front, night feedings will be easier for nursing moms. The soft jersey set comes in 14 cute colors.
Buy it: $128, Eberjey.com
Image: Courtesy Chronicle Books
Chronicle Books Mom’s One Line a Day Five-Year Memory Book
Parenthood is a life-changing event, which is why many first-timers like to document the journey. But let’s face it, not everyone has the time to create a full-on scrapbook or write lengthy diary entries. That’s where this genius “one line a day” journal comes in. Each page has an entry for five successive years, where moms can jot down a thought, memory or milestone event. Talk about a standout Mother’s Day gift for new moms!
Image: Courtesy Uncommon Goods
Shower Steamers
Bath bombs are nice and all, but how many new moms have time for a lengthy soak? These vegan, all-natural cubes of aromatherapy goodness sit in a corner of the shower, letting her bask in a magical mist of relaxing lemongrass and lavender.
Buy it: $28 for a set of 5, UncommonGoods.com
Image: Courtesy Seraphine
Seraphine Cotton Blend Mama & Mini Sweatshirts
Head to Seraphine for a first Mother’s Day gift for mom and baby. These adorable matching sweatshirts boast a soft, fleece lining and a cool “Mama” and “Mini” slogan respectively across the front. Plus, the adult version features easy-open snaps at the sides for breastfeeding, while the mini version opens at the shoulder for easy changes.
Buy it: $89, Seraphine.com
Image: Courtesy Aurate New York
Aurate Mini & Me Connection Slider Bracelet
Celebrate the connection between a mom and baby with this stunning bracelet by Aurate. The gold-plated piece features two interconnected loops that symbolize mother and child. Plus, you can buy a matching bracelet for mom’s mini-me too.
Image: Courtesy Uncommon Goods
Birth Month Mini Dish
Moms have been wearing birthstone charms for decades. Give a nod to this time-honored tradition with a crystal-inspired jewelry dish. The stained glass bowl holds earrings, rings and all the future handmade trinkets Mom is bound to get from her child.
Image: Courtesy Hallmark
Hallmark Flowers Live Succulent Garden
Flowers are a go-to gift for moms. But you’ll get bonus points for finding a fabulous, fun alternative: a succulent arrangement, presented in a heart-shaped planter. Succulents are about the easiest plants to take care of—perfect for new moms with little to no time.
Image: Courtesy Mommy Power
Mommy Power Stroller Hook
First Mother’s Day gifts can be practical. Case in point: This stroller hook that doubles as a power bank. It’s super-sturdy, holding up to 25 pounds (meaning it’ll support the heaviest of diaper bags, and even has a built-in charger so Mom can power up her phone when she’s out and about with baby.
Image: Courtesy Lunya
Lunya Washable Silk Sleep Mask
A full night’s sleep is probably elusive, but this luxe face mask will help maximize the shut-eye Mom does get. It’s made from naturally moisturizing silk, and it doubles as a hairband during the day. Genius.
Image: Courtesy FabFitFun
FabFitFun Box
Pro tip: For the best first Mother’s Day gift ideas, find something that gives her more “me time.” This subscription box, filled with pampering products, workout accessories and other exciting stuff, encourages a self-care mentality.
Buy it: $50 for four boxes over the course of one year, FabFitFun.com
Image: Courtesy SkyLight Frame
Skylight Calendar
New moms have a lot to keep track of, from doctors appointments to playgroup meetups, not to mention day-to-day tasks! That’s why a digital calendar makes a great first Mother’s Day gift. With the Skylight, she can sync all of the family’s calendars into one easy-to-use touchscreen device. Plus, it doubles as a slideshow for family photos.
Image: Courtesy Uncommon Goods
Mom’s Survival Pack
The best Mother’s Day gifts for new moms are those that deliver some much-needed rest and relaxation. And this six-piece pampering set does just that. It comes with a lavender sugar exfoliator, bath salts, belly butter, sleep salve, lip balm and a soothing lavender mist. All that for $32—what a bargain!
Image: Courtesy Parachute
Parachute Sateen Sheet Set
It may be something of a cliche by now, but hotel-quality bedding really is one of the best gifts to give for any occasion—including Mother’s Day. And Parachute’s sateen sheets are hard to beat. Crafted from 100 percent Egyption cotton, this set feels exceptionally smooth against the skin, and is durable enough for regular wash cycles.
Buy it: Starting from $144, ParachuteHome.com
Image: Courtesy Nespresso
Nespresso Evoluo Graphite Metal
Coffee (aka mom fuel) is a must for new parents. So a coffee machine is an awesome choice for a first Mother’s Day gift. We like the Nespresso Evoluo, which offers four brewing options at the touch of a button, making it a great choice for parents short on time and sleep!
Buy it: $209, Nespresso.com
First Mother’s Day Gifts from Baby
Wrapping up a sentimental present from baby is an adorable way to involve a new arrival in the first Mother’s Day festivities. From custom artwork to gorgeous jewelry and personalized books, check out a few special gifts that’ll add extra meaning to an already special occasion.
Image: Courtesy Wonderbly
Wonderbly I Love Mommy This Much
Add some magic to storytime with a personalized book by Wonderbly. This heart-warming tale is all about the special bond between Mom and baby. Add a personalized dedication and her child’s name to the story, and watch her heart melt. It’s a unique first Mother’s Day gift from baby that she’ll treasure forever.
Buy it: $35, Wonderbly.com
Image: Courtesy Sweet Sugarpine
SweetSugarpine Mother’s Day Mug
This mug is personalized with a photo and a sweet message from baby that reads: “Dear Mama, I love you.” Every time she makes a brew, she’ll be reminded of her little one’s limitless love.
Image: Courtesy Tiny Tags
Tiny Tags The Perfect Bundle Gold Mama Necklace and Tenth & Pine Onesie
Maisonette is a great place to find Mother’s Day gifts for new moms. Case in point: This bundle by Tiny Tags and Tenth & Pine. It includes a screen-printed, organic cotton onesie for little ones ages 0 to 3 months, and a “Mama” nameplate necklace.
Buy it: $145, Maisonette.com
Image: Courtesy Purple Paper People
Purple Paper People Paper Cut Custom Family Portrait
There’s only one word for these custom cutout portraits: stunning. Artist Patricia Lima creates these miniature works of art based on real photographs. A gorgeous family portrait with a wiggly baby who doesn’t want to sit still for pics? Coming right up!
Buy it: Starting from $288, Etsy.com
Image: Courtesy Homesick
Homesick Thank You, Mom Candle
Mother’s Day gifts for new moms are all about showing some appreciation for the hard work she does on the daily. So why not say “thank you” from you and baby with this soy-blend candle, scented with notes of bergamot, lavender and sage.
Buy it: $34, Homesick.com
Image: Courtesy Pine and Poem
Pine and Poem Baby I Love you Mommy Baby Footprint Art
Looking for one of the cutest first Mother’s Day gifts? This poster features her new addition’s footprints in pastel shades, plus a sweet message from baby.
Buy it: Starting from $24, Etsy.com
Image: Courtesy Artifact Uprising
Artifact Uprising Baby Board Book
With so many nights of bedtime stories ahead, let the first one be full of photos of your happy, growing family. Present it with a note, saying: “Mommy, will you read me a story?” Talk about sweet first Mother’s Day gifts from baby.
Buy it: Starting at $45, ArtifactUprising.com
Image: Courtesy Colour Fashion Shop
Colour Fashion Shop Mommy and Me Outfits
A matching mommy and me set is a great first Mother’s Day gift from baby. Mama and her little one can rock twinning looks whenever the impulse hits! We’re loving this whimsical set from Etsy with its neutral colors, sweet message and dandelion print.
Buy it: Starting from $29, Etsy.com
Image: Courtesy Emily Rollings
Emily Rollings Memories From Your Mother
This hand-bound heirloom journal contains writing prompts to help new moms record their thoughts, feelings and memories from the first year of parenthood. Present it to a mom-to-be as a gift on loan from baby—that she can hand back when they’re old enough to read her reflections.
Image: Courtesy Personalization Mall
Personalization Mall First Mother’s Day Personalized Glass Picture Frame
Commemorate her first Mother’s Day with this custom frame from Personalization Mall. The heavy glass design boasts silver accents and a laser engraved inscription. Add a picture of Mom and baby, and inside the card, jot “check out my favorite day with you, Mama.” She’ll swoon.
Image: Courtesy Jem & Bea
Jem & Bea Mama Clutch
Of course, first Mother’s Day gifts from baby don’t have to be sentimental. Check out this chic clutch bag by Jem & Bea. It’s made from a wipe-clean, water-repellent material and embossed with a gold “MAMA” logo on the front.
Image: Courtesy Caitlyn Minimalist
Caitlyn Minimalist Dainty Mama Necklace
This fabulous “mama” necklace in tones of silver, gold or rose gold is a sweet, daily reminder of her cherished new role. Present it as a first Mother’s Day gift from baby for added aw-factor.
Image: Courtesy Baby Starters
Baby Starters “Brightening Mommy’s Mother’s Day” Bib in Pink
For the ultimate first Mother’s Day gift, pop this sweet bib on baby and surprise Mom with breakfast in bed. It comes in an equally adorable blue style too.
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