The Best & Worst Mother’s Day Gifts, According to Real Moms

Every mom has a story — especially when it comes to Mother’s Day gifts. Some are chef’s kiss perfection. Others? Well… let’s just say they end up re-gifted, repurposed, or permanently retired to the back of a drawer.

We asked a few moms to spill the tea on the best 💖 (and worst 😬) gifts they’ve received. Their answers? Hilarious, heartwarming, and full of truths every mom will nod furiously at.

Bonus: we snuck in a few ideas in case you’re looking to actually win Mother’s Day this year.

“Cute? Not even ironically.” 😩

Worst Gift: Patterned pajamas. “Sure, they were comfy… But the patterns were so… loud, to put it nicely. I hardly ever wore them.”
Best Gift: A custom tote bag. “It’s big and roomy enough to fit everything I need on a day to day basis. Wallet, keys, re-usable grocery bags, water bottles, a foldable umbrella — the works. And the best part? No one mistakes it for theirs.”

✨ Gift Recommendations:

Pro-Tip:

Go for something she’ll actually use — and love showing off.

Add her name, a quote she loves, or a cool design. Way more wearable than mystery-print jammies.


“It was a fruity fiasco.”

Worst Gift: A generic fruit basket. “I like fruit… but not 3 pounds of it all at once. Most of it went bad before I could finish half.”

Best Gift: “A cute thermos. I’ve been drinking honey lemon tea consistently to avoid getting sick, so it’s been super useful. I bring it with me to the office. And it functions as a cute little accessory.”

✨ Gift Recommendations:

Pro-Tip:

Go for gifts that align with her routine and lifestyle.

Functional, cute, and doesn’t take up prime real estate in the fridge for days on end.


“The robe said ‘spa day’ but felt like a hotel towel.” 😐

Worst Gift: A bathrobe and slippers. “They looked cosy but felt like sandpaper. I’ve worn them maybe twice.”
Best Gift: A stunning coffee table photobook of all our family trips. “Guests love flipping through it. It’s a conversation starter and interior decor.”

✨ Gift Recommendations:

Pro-Tip:

Consider gifts that offer lasting memories or experiences.

Choose her fave family moments and turn them into something she’ll proudly show off. To take it one step further, opt for the Premium Layflat binding.


“Plot twist: I gifted it to myself first.” 🤡

Worst Gift: Perfume. “Sounds fine, right? Except I bought it for myself… and my kid rewrapped it and gave it back to me. I never said a word. 😂”
Best Gift: A lovely scented candle. “It smelled like apple blossoms and peace. I lit it that night, took a deep breath, and felt like someone finally understood the assignment.”

✨ Gift Recommendations:

Pro-Tip:

Set the mood with gifts that help her relax and recharge. A beautifully scented candle doesn’t just fill a room—it transforms it into a space that’s all hers.

A sweet little reminder that peace, quiet, and “me-time” are worth celebrating.


“Dear Family: I Love You. But Stop Gifting Me Cleaning Stuff.” 🙄

Worst Gift: A ‘cleaning kit’ wrapped like a present. “Buckets, sponges, sprays, detergents — the whole thing. I know I clean a lot… but did I need a reminder on Mother’s Day?
Best Gift: A full-on Mother’s Day photo shoot. “Hair, makeup, the works. I felt stunning. Printed the best shots into framed prints and they make me smile every day.”

✨ Gift Recommendations:

Pro-Tip:

Avoid gifts that feel more like chores. Opt for indulgent items that enhances her day-to-day life.

Bring her glam moment to life on the wall.


So, what did we learn?

✔️ Moms remember the good gifts (and the chaotic ones).
✔️ Personal beats pricey.
✔️ If it sparks joy and looks good on a shelf — it’s a win.
✔️ Candles are officially on thin ice.

So whether you’re going custom, framed, printed or all-out glam, choose a gift that makes her feel seen, loved, and 100% mom-iconic 💖

Need help picking something? We got you!