In this Mother’s Day gift guide, I’ll not only share thoughtful gift ideas for moms of all kinds but also explore a bit of the holiday’s history, date differences (especially between the U.S. and Portugal), and tips to make your gift feel extra meaningful—whether it’s store-bought, handmade, or a simple act of love.
Mother’s Day is a special time to celebrate the women who gave us life, love, and a whole lot of patience. But did you know that Mother’s Day isn’t celebrated on the same day everywhere in the world? In fact, if you’re living abroad—like many of us immigrants—you might be caught off guard when friends start posting Mother’s Day photos weeks before your country celebrates it.
This post contains affiliate links.
A Brief History of Mother’s Day
Mother’s Day has ancient roots, dating back to festivals honoring mother goddesses in Greek and Roman times. The modern celebration, however, began in the early 20th century thanks to Anna Jarvis in the United States. She held the first official Mother’s Day celebration in 1908 in West Virginia.
By 1914, President Woodrow Wilson declared the second Sunday in May a national holiday in the U.S. honoring mothers. The holiday quickly spread around the globe, though the celebration date varies widely by country.
Mother’s Day Dates Around the World
One of the biggest differences for expats is simply remembering the right date! For example:
- United States: 2nd Sunday in May (in 2025, it’s May 11)
- Portugal: 1st Sunday in May (in 2025, it’s May 4)
- United Kingdom: 4th Sunday of Lent (March 30 in 2025)
- Brazil: Same as the U.S. – 2nd Sunday in May
This means if you’re a Brazilian mom living in Portugal like me, you get to celebrate twice! Not a bad deal, right? and I take full advantage of it. (Don’t get me started on Father’s day though – they get 3 separate dates.)
The Thought Behind the Gift
The best gifts don’t always come with a high price tag. They come from knowing the mom you’re buying for. Think about her personality, her love language, and her stage of life. Is she a new mom? A grandma? A mom who loves gardening, painting, or tech gadgets? This Mother’s Day gift guide breaks ideas down by type, so you can find the perfect fit.
Mother’s Day Gift Guide: Ideas for Every Kind of Mom
1. The Sentimental Mom
If she tears up at handwritten notes and cherishes memories over materials, go the sentimental route. My mom’s house is filled with these types of gifts (my sister loves to give personalized gifts)
Gift ideas:
- A handwritten letter or card from each family member
- A custom family portrait (illustrated or watercolor—if you paint, even better!)
- A locket with tiny photos of the kids
- A framed family quote or poem
2. The Practical Mom
She prefers useful over fancy, and she loves gifts that make her daily life easier.
Gift ideas:
- A beautiful tote bag she’ll actually use (I have this Longchamp in blue and I adore it – it folds on itself)
- A personalized planner or calendar
- A robot vacuum (a bit of a splurge but people say it’s life-changing! I’ve yet to take the plunge.)
- A stylish yet functional apron
3. The Pampered Mom
She needs a break, and she deserves one. This one is definitely me.
Gift ideas:
- Spa day or massage gift certificate
- Bath salts, luxury candles, and a fluffy robe
- Subscription to a book box, self-care box, or wine club (if she drinks)
- A full day off with no chores or responsibilities! (THE ABSOLUTE BEST)
4. The Creative Mom
She lights up with a new project or artistic outlet.
Gift ideas:
- A watercolor starter set (I have a Watercolor for Beginners post with lots of recommendations)
- Online art classes (Domestika has great options)
- A bullet journal kit with pens and stickers
- A digital drawing tablet
Want to give mom something homemade? Give this Easy DIY String Art at try if you’re feeling crafty.
5. The Tech-Savvy Mom
She’s not afraid of gadgets and loves discovering new tools.
Gift ideas:
- Kindle Paperwhite or Kobo for the bookworm
- Smart mug that keeps her coffee hot
- Apple AirTag for her keys or bag
- A beautiful phone case with family photos
6. The Outdoorsy Mom
Fresh air, sunshine, and movement make her happiest.
Gift ideas:
- A stylish picnic basket or backpack
- Plant or flower subscription box
- Hiking sandals or a sunhat
- National park pass or local garden membership
7. The Wellness & Movement Mom
She’s always in motion—whether it’s a morning jog, yoga class, or chasing little ones around the park.
Gift ideas:
- An Apple Watch to track workouts, sleep, and mindfulness
- A set of resistance bands or hand weights for at-home strength training
- A subscription to a fitness app like Peloton, Calm, or Nike Training Club
- A cooling towel or stylish water bottle to keep her refreshed on the go
Experience-Based Gifts (Perfect for Last-Minute Planners)
If shipping deadlines have passed or you want to make memories instead, try:
- A family brunch (let her relax while you cook)
- A surprise picnic at a scenic spot
- A handmade coupon book (“1 hour of quiet time,” “breakfast in bed,” “kid pickup on a rainy day”)
- Tickets to a concert, play, or exhibit she’d love
These options are great for those living far from moms, too—gift a digital class or plan a virtual tea date!
Portugal vs. U.S.: Cultural Touches to Consider
In Portugal, Mother’s Day is a quieter, more family-centered affair compared to the consumer-driven version in the U.S. While flowers and chocolates are common here, the idea of giving lavish gifts isn’t always the norm. A handmade card and a locally made gift at the many artisans around town might mean just as much—or more.
However, if you’re a multicultural family, don’t be afraid to blend traditions. Have lunch like they do in Portugal, but bring in a bouquet or a thoughtful gift like you might in the U.S. It’s a chance to create your own family rituals.
Small Mother’s Day Gifts from Kids
Don’t forget the little ones! These small but sweet ideas are perfect for children to give:
- A painted rock with “Mom” or a heart
- A bookmark made with love
- A bouquet of handpicked flowers or wildflowers
- A video message or voice memo
These can be paired with something else or treasured on their own.
Wrapping Up: What Really Matters on Mother’s Day
Whether you’re in Portugal, the U.S., or somewhere in between, the message of Mother’s Day is the same: moms deserve to be celebrated. And this Mother’s Day gift guide is here to help you make that celebration meaningful, beautiful, and personal.
Don’t worry about being Pinterest-perfect. A simple, heartfelt gesture—paired with a little time and thought—can mean the world to a mom.
Happy Mother’s Day to you and all the amazing women who make the world go round.
Leave a Reply