Thoughtful Mother’s Day Ideas That Speak Her Love Language

Mother’s Day is upon us and I got to reflecting on some of my favorite gifts in my 2.5 years of being someones mom. My favorite gifts have been the ones that shows I am seen by my partner, my family. They are the thoughtful things and activities that answer a small yearning, like a well timed spa day or activities that bring our family closer. I realized that the gifts I cherish most speak to my top love languages: quality time, acts of service, and words of affirmation. Like the series of newborn polaroids that served as my first Mother’s Day card (and are now framed in our hallway).

Below I am sharing some simple yet meaningful gift inspiration, no matter her love language. As they say, “to be known is to be loved.” Now on to meaningful gift ideas for the mother or mother figure who appreciates a quiet gesture over extravagance!

1. A Massage or Spa Treatment (That She Doesn’t Have to Schedule Herself)

Give the gift of rest — real rest. Book the appointment, arrange the childcare, and let her fully exhale without having to lift a finger to make it happen. It's not just the massage, taking on the mental load of planning it reinforces the message that her rest is important for not only her, but everyone in her life she cares for.

2. A Family Photo Shoot (That You Plan From Start to Finish)

Pick the outfits. Pick the location. Bring snacks. Hire the photographer or shoot it on your phone, but take it off her plate. Many moms often end up behind the camera or managing the details. Flip the script and give her a memory where she gets to just be.

3. A Handmade Card With the Kids (Think Polaroids + Imperfection)

Take photos of your child in all their favorite spots like my husband did for our first Mother’s Day — their reading nook, the backyard swing, the sunny corner where they play with blocks. Paste them in a card to capture life as it is now, one day she’ll miss the mundanities of everyday life so capture it in all of its real and imperfect glory now.

4. A Handwritten Letter That Captures This Season

Write to her. About who she is right now. About this version of your family. About what you notice and what you cherish. It’s the kind of gift that will be tucked into a drawer and reread for years to come.

5. A Handmade Bouquet (Yes, Made by You)

A grocery store bundle is nice, as is a custom ordered bouquet. But if you really want to touch her heart, build something seasonal and beautiful with your own hands. Pick flowers that speak to you and hit youtube for some guidance on how to DIY a unique bouquet. The thoughtfulness will speak louder than any price tag.

6. A Little Luxury She’d Never Buy for Herself

That fancy hair treatment she keeps mentioning but won’t book. That beautiful handbag she paused on before saying “not right now.” Something small but splurge-y that proves you’re listening — and that she’s allowed to say yes to herself.

What do most moms want the most? To feel seen. And for those whose love language is gifts, some of my favorite things rare below!