How to Plan the Perfect First Mother's Day

Give the Invaluable Gift of Time

"Every mom is different," says Kristen Chase, publisher of Cool Mom Picks. "[They] may want a day with the baby or without the baby." So, think about what the new mom in your life would appreciate most, and try to plan a gift or activity around that.

Think of a first Mother's Day as a chance to honor the new mom with acts of kindness for all the unpaid, thankless (and often downright gross) work they do. Small gestures speak volumes, whether it's breakfast in bed that includes clean-up service, a day of diaper duty, or a night of feeding. "Any way to acknowledge the hard first months of motherhood is wonderful," says Chase.

If you're still at a loss, print a Mother's Day coupon and sign the baby's name. The coupon could be an hour of alone time, a mom-free day, their choice of activities, or dinner. Get creative!

Don't Forget the Card

It's easy to overlook, yet a thoughtful card is so simple to execute. Save your money and opt for a DIY card—you won't be sorry. "From my kids, I always love homemade cards," says Jennifer Borget from Cherish 365. Not crafty? No problem. "Some of my favorite cards were made with three markers and computer paper," says Jill Krause of Baby Rabies.

Chase recommends putting the baby's handprint or footprint on the card since it is, technically, from them. Remember to include a nice message. If you've got writer's block, borrow inspiration from these quotes and sayings about Mom.

Opt for a Sentimental Keepsake

"Moms love getting something sentimental in terms of representing motherhood," says Chase. Gift ideas that tug at the heartstrings include a photo book of the baby's first year, jewelry (adorned with the baby's birthstone or engraved), or something personalized from a small business. One of our favorites is a birthstone coin necklace by Gorjana.

Include a Day of Pampering

Motherhood takes a toll on the mind and body. For the mom who cherishes "me" time, it's hard to beat a day at the spa. "Everyone should spend time alone—at the spa, in the bubble bath," says Borget. Help Mom rejuvenate with a day (or even an hour) at their favorite spa or salon.

If a massage or a manicure isn't in the budget this year, assemble a spa gift basket and then make yourself scarce. They can decompress in a tranquil home while you tire the baby out at the park. Bonus points if you can return home right before nap time. Then, you can both enjoy an hour of peace and quiet before the baby wakes up.

Plan a Date Night

Whether you're the partner or you just want to do something nice for the new mom in your life and their partner, planning a date night is a great gesture. The first year of parenthood can put immense stress on a relationship.

A date night allows time for the new parents to reconnect as a twosome and try to talk about something other than their bundle of joy. "Everyone is sleep-deprived and adjusting to a new person in the house," says Chase. "Going out and doing adult things is a special treat for any mom."

Celebrate With Other Moms

"A lot of women develop stronger relationships with their moms after they have a baby," says Chase. If the new mom in your life wants to celebrate with extended family, consider a multi-generational family brunch or dinner with parents and grandparents.

"Be mindful of the single moms in your life, too!" says Krause. "If their kids don't have another parent or support person who can come up with a way to celebrate Mother's Day, offer to help." This could be as simple as giving your friend or relative a card from their baby and a gift card to their favorite coffee shop.

You could invite the other family to spend the day with yours (just check with your partner first). Or, you could send the new mom to the movies or a wine bar while you babysit for the afternoon. Your thoughtfulness will not go unnoticed.

Consider a More Practical Gift

Mom loves a sweet and thoughtful gift, but there are times when moms are grateful for a practical gift, too. For the coffee or tea-loving mom who can't seem to enjoy their drink hot, a mug warmer will be much appreciated. When there are days that she struggles to get from one meal to the next, set them up with some takeout, a food delivery service, or a subscription box to take one less thing off their plate.

Book a Family Photoshoot

Consider booking a session with a professional photographer to capture Mom in their element and give them family photos she'll cherish forever. The photoshoot doesn't have to take place on Mother's Day. Regardless of when you schedule it, give them a heads-up so they'll be ready for their close-up.

Make a Time Capsule

Any parent knows that there is nothing more precious than time. Let Mom remember their first Mother's Day with a time capsule. Give them a start and gather some memories, photos, funny moments, trinkets, and anything that can mark their journey as a first-time mom.

Include a piece of paper with the date where Mom can write something personal. You can give them the option of opening the time capsule whenever they want or opening it at a designated time and place years later.

Gift an Experience

While motherhood itself is an experience, gift the new mom in your life a different kind of experience, perhaps something they couldn't do while pregnant. It can be as simple as sushi or wine tasting or something a little more extreme, like sky diving. Whatever the idea, let Mom have some fun doing something opposite from their everyday life.