31 thoughtful gift ideas for mom

mother's day print for mother's day

What do you buy for someone who does everything and doesn’t want anything? Don’t worry—we’re here to save the day! When brainstorming the best gift ideas for mom, always consider your mom’s unique personality and interests. The more thoughtful, the better. If she’s scared of heights, skip the hot air balloon ride (trust us on this one). But if she’s sentimental, a personalized photo gift will surely melt her heart.

Whether your mom is a sentimental soul, an adventurous thrill-seeker or a creative genius, this article has fabulous gift ideas for moms, no matter your budget. From heartfelt keepsakes to exciting experiences, this list will help you find the perfect present to make your mom smile!

Gift ideas for moms

Sentimental gift ideas for moms

Let’s face it: most moms love nothing more than a sentimental gift that reminds her of the family she’s built or the things she loves. From heartwarming memories to fun keepsakes, personalized photo gifts are perfect for showing your mom how much you care. Perhaps a canvas print capturing the good times or a personalized mug featuring an inside joke is just the thing to make your mom feel special.

1. Custom mug

A custom mug is a fantastic gift for your mom because it blends practicality with a personal touch. As she sips her coffee or tea every morning, she’ll be reminded of your special bond. Whether it showcases a favorite family photo, an inside joke or a heartfelt message, a custom mug turns an everyday item into a cherished keepsake to brighten your mom’s day and show your love!

Gift idea for mom: custom mug with a photo of you and your mom

Source: Custom mugs via VistaPrint

Gift idea for mom: funny and cheeky text “Mom fuel” on a mug

Source: Custom mugs via VistaPrint

2. Photo book

Give your mom the gift of preserved memories with a custom photo book. Each page tells the story of family milestones and heartfelt moments, making it a thoughtful keepsake that celebrates the special moments you’ve shared.

Custom printed photo book gift idea for mom

Source: Custom printed photo book via VistaPrint

3. Canvas or framed print

Take things up a notch and get your favorite photo of the two of you printed onto canvas to be hung on your mom’s wall! A canvas print is the perfect sentimental gift to show your mom how much you cherish her.

Gift idea for mom: custom canvas prints with photos of you and your mom

Source: Custom printed canvas via VistaPrint

4. Acrylic block

Acrylic photo blocks are a smaller and more subtle option, making them a great gift for moms who appreciate elegant and understated decor.

Custom acrylic photo block gift idea for mom

Acrylic photo block via VistaPrint

5. Metal or wood print

Alternatively, a metal print or wood print are fantastic choices if you want something a bit more creative for your mom’s home. These materials add a stylish touch to her decor, making your gift stand out. Plus, the durability of metal and the rustic charm of wood ensure that your chosen photo will be cherished for years.

Custom metal print gift idea for mom

Source: Custom metal print via VistaPrint

6. Photo tiles

Photo tiles are the perfect option if you need help deciding which family photo to print. Their modular design allows you to mix and match multiple images, creating a dynamic and personalized display. Plus, they’re easy to rearrange, so you can update your gallery wall with new memories whenever you like!

Custom printed photo tiles gift idea for mom

Source: Photo tiles via VistaPrint

7. Develop old rolls of film

If your mom has a stash of old rolls of film and disposable cameras, a thoughtful gift idea is to have them developed and compiled into a photo book. This preserves precious memories and turns them into an organized keepsake she can enjoy for years.

8. Custom calendar

Get creative and design a wall calendar for your mom that she can enjoy all year round! Personalize each month with her favorite photos and important family events, like birthdays and anniversaries. If your mom spends a lot of time at her desk, a custom desk calendar can bring cheer to her work day.

Custom wall calendar gift idea for mom

Source: Custom wall calendar via VistaPrint

9. Transferring old films to digital files

Does your mom have old family films recorded on tapes or vintage photos stuck in analog? Help her by organizing the transfer of these precious memories to digital files to preserve them for future generations.

Vintage photo album on a table

Source: Vintage photo album via Depositphotos

10. Personalized journal

Who doesn’t appreciate gifts adorned with their name or initials? Buy your mom a personalized faux leather journal to record everything from daily affirmations to special days of her life. Add an extra touch of customization with a personal quote or design to make her feel truly loved.

Custom journal gift idea for mom

Source: Custom journal via VistaPrint

Gift ideas for busy moms


11. Custom water bottle

If your mom is always on the go, a custom water bottle is a fun way to keep her hydrated while adding a personal touch—the perfect blend of practicality and thoughtfulness. Choose a design template and add her name, an inside joke or even a photo of the two of you.

Custom water bottle gift idea for mom

Source: Custom water bottle via VistaPrint

12. Notepad or notebook

Custom notepads and notebooks are a fantastic choice for moms with never-ending to-do lists. These handy tools will help your mom stay organized and track her busy schedule. Opt for personalized notebooks featuring her name or a motivational quote for a special touch.

Custom notebook gift idea for mom

Source: Custom notepad via VistaPrint

13. Custom tote bag

A custom tote bag is an excellent gift for moms because it combines functionality with a heartfelt sentiment. Whether for carrying groceries, books or everyday essentials, a tote bag featuring her name, a favorite mantra or a special design makes it uniquely hers.

Custom tote bag gift idea for mom

Source: Custom tote bag via VistaPrint

14. Portable phone charger

What’s worse when you’re busy than your phone running out of battery? Give your mom the gift of an endlessly charged phone with a wireless charging pad.

Custom charging pad gift idea for mom

Source: Custom charging pad via VistaPrint

Self-care gift ideas for moms

There’s nothing better than a bit of pampering, especially after a long day of looking after everyone but yourself. Encourage your mom to kick back, put her feet up and indulge in some much-needed self-care. We’ve got you covered, from a personalized pillow to a relaxing spa massage to melt her stress away. Treat your mom to a bit of luxury! After all, she deserves it.

15. Cosmetics

Cosmetics are always a nice gift idea for moms who need some self-care. Moisturizer, lip balm and hand cream are all perfect for pampering your mom and making her feel special.

Gift idea for mom: an assortment of cosmetics and beauty items

Source: Cosmetics gift idea for mom via Depositphotos

16. Massage or spa day voucher

For the ultimate self-care gift, find a spa near your mom and give her a gift voucher. This gift allows her to choose her favorite treatments and enjoy some quality me time.

A woman enjoying a massage

Source: Massage via Depositphotos

17. Personalized pillows

A personalized pillow is a fantastic gift idea for moms because it combines comfort with a personal touch. For a funny touch, put your face on the pillow—a bundle of love she can hug when you’re not around!

Custom photo pillows gift idea for mom

Source: Custom photo pillow via VistaPrint

18. Personalized blanket

Go one step further on the comfort scale than a personalized pillow with a custom blanket. Get a design, message or photo meaningful to the both of you printed on a blanket and wrap your mom up in love.

Custom photo blanket gift idea for mom

Source: Custom photo blanket via VistaPrint

Gift ideas for creative moms

Is your mom a creative being who never has the time to dive into her artistic passions? A thoughtful gift that sparks her creativity could be just what she needs. Imagine her face lighting up at the sight of a fresh set of watercolors, ready to bring her artistic visions to life. She’ll appreciate it endlessly, especially if you set aside time to create art together.

19. Watercolor paints

Is your mom endlessly creative and perpetually busy? Help her carve out some time to create by giving her a new set of watercolors. She won’t be able to resist trying them out, and all she needs is some water to get going!

Watercolor paint set gift idea for mom

Source: Watercolors painting set via Depositphotos

20. A sketchbook

The beauty of a brand-new sketchbook lies in its endless creative possibilities! It’s a fresh canvas for your mom to unleash her creativity and bring her ideas to life. For a more personal gift, design and print a custom notebook or journal.

Sketchbooks gift idea for mom

Source: Sketchbooks via Depositphotos

21. Creative course voucher

A gift voucher for a creative course is a great idea for making memories and encouraging your mom to set aside time for herself and reconnect with her creative endeavors. Find a course she might like to show you listen and care about her passions.

Ceramics course gift idea for mom

Source: Ceramics via Depositphotos

Gift ideas for adventurous moms

If your mom has an adventurous spirit, why not fuel her wanderlust with gifts that spark her sense of adventure? Imagine her excitement as she flips through beautifully illustrated travel guides, dreaming of exotic destinations and far-flung escapades. Pair that with a portable reading lamp or a travel journal to jot down her plans, helping to turn her dreams into a reality.

22. Travel books

Inspire your mom to finally take that dream trip with a captivating travel book. If she’s been raving about a specific country, show her you’ve been paying attention by picking out a guide to that very destination. It’s a fun and thoughtful way to say, “Pack your bags, Mom—adventure awaits!”

23. Personalized beach towel

A personalized beach towel is the perfect mix of practicality and fun for the mom who loves to travel and relax by the beach. Embroider it with her initials or simply “Mom,” so she thinks of you wherever she goes.

24. Personalized luggage tag

A personalized luggage tag says, “I’m a stylish mom with adventure on the horizon!” This fun and chic accessory will not only keep your mom’s bags easily identifiable but also adds a touch of flair to her travels. Whether she’s jetting off to an exotic location or a weekend getaway, a custom luggage tag is the perfect way to celebrate her adventurous spirit.

Personalized luggage tag gift idea for mom

Source: Personalized luggage tag via VistaPrint

25. Thrill-seeking activity voucher

Gift the adrenaline-loving moms out there a voucher for a once in a lifetime hot air balloon, whitewater rafting or paragliding experience.

Hot air balloon voucher gift idea for moms

Source: Hot air balloon ride via Depositphotos

Luxury gift ideas for moms

Are you buying a gift to mark your mom’s milestone birthdays, like her 50th, 60th or 70th? Celebrate this momentous occasion with a gift that’s as fabulous as she is! Let’s face it—big milestone birthdays can bring a touch of existential dread, so remind her of the good things in life and give your mom something she’ll treasure forever.

26. Etched wine glasses

Keep it classy with custom etched wine glasses for those indulgent moments every mom needs occasionally! Personalize them with a short, heartwarming message to remind her how much you care as she unwinds with a glass of wine.

Etched wine glasses gift idea for mom

Source: Etched wine glasses via VistaPrint

27. Custom jewelry

Jewelry is the ultimate gift for celebrating milestone birthdays! It’s a classic and classy way to mark the occasion, giving your mom a keepsake she’ll treasure for years. Whether a dainty necklace, dazzling bracelet or pair of elegant earrings, jewelry adds a touch of sparkle and sentimentality to any gift. For a personal touch, customize the jewelry with her initials or a hand-drawn design.

28. Watch

A watch isn’t just a way to keep time—it’s an hourly reminder of your love. Both a timeless accessory and a sentimental keepsake, a watch is the perfect choice to celebrate your mom with elegance and thoughtfulness.

Subscription gifts for moms

Does your mom have a favorite cinema she loves to visit whenever she gets the chance? Or maybe there’s a magazine she can’t wait to read each month? If your mom is a voracious reader, a thoughtfully chosen subscription might be the best gift she never knew she wanted!

Dive into your mom’s interests and find a subscription or membership to keep her entertained and inspired all year. This gift idea calls for some detective work—think of it as your own quest to find the perfect surprise.

29. Substack subscription

Show your mom you’ve been paying attention to her favorite musicians, artists and writers with a Substack subscription! She’ll appreciate the personal touch and enjoy fresh insights, stories and inspiration right in her inbox. It’s the perfect way to celebrate her passions and keep her connected to what she loves!

30. Local cinema membership

If your mom is a cinephile, she’ll love a membership to her favorite independent cinema! Many movie theaters offer monthly passes that include free tickets and discounts on snacks. This gift is the perfect way to ensure she sets aside time for herself to see all the films she’s eager to see.

Cinema gift idea for mom

Source: Local cinema membership via Depositphotos

31. Favorite magazine

A magazine subscription to your mom’s favorite magazine is a great gift because it delivers a recurring dose of her favorite topics—be it fashion, cooking, travel or wellness—right to her door (or smartphone)!

Ready to find the perfect custom gift for mom?

When it comes to the best gift ideas for moms, a little thoughtfulness can go a long way! If you’re ever in doubt, you can’t go wrong with a personalized photo gift. It’s like the superhero of gifts—unique, sentimental and one that she’ll treasure forever. So get creative and give her a gift that says, “I put a lot of thought into this just for you!”