Mother’s Day is nearly here – your annual reminder that a last-minute petrol station bouquet simply won’t do. It’s time to spoil the brilliant mums and mums-to-be in our lives with something a little more inspired.
The London Mums team has rounded up our favourite finds from brands we love – from beauty essentials, dreamy pyjamas and chic baby carriers to personalised puzzles and adorable twinning socks. Whether she’s navigating newborn nights, school runs or finally enjoying a full night’s sleep, there’s something here to make every kind of mum feel properly celebrated.
Vistaprint UK – Business Cards, Customised Mugs & Photo Books
As Editor of London Mums Magazine, presentation matters. Whether I’m at a press launch, a media interview or juggling both in the same afternoon, I like my business cards to reflect the brand I’ve built over the past 20 years. I’ve used Vistaprint UK several times, and what keeps me coming back is the ease. Their online editor is genuinely straightforward (no design degree required), and the customisation options make it simple to create something polished and personal.
Yes, the standard cards can feel on the lighter side, so I’d always recommend upgrading to a premium stock if you want that satisfying, confidence-boosting thickness – especially if, like me, you’re handing them out at networking events. Delivery has generally been quick and reliable in my experience, but I always triple-check proofs before approving, just to avoid any tiny typos making it to print.
And here’s my little Mother’s Day twist: very soon you’ll see my brand-new personalised business cards shining – and I’m also creating a photo book for my best friend to celebrate decades of friendship. Their photo book tool is wonderfully intuitive; you upload, drag, drop, and voilà – a heartfelt gift that looks far more expensive than it is. For busy mums who want something meaningful without spending hours figuring out complicated software, it’s a lifesaver.
Overall? Budget-friendly, easy to use and perfect for thoughtful gifts or smart professional touches – just upgrade your paper stock and check your proofs carefully.
Photo on wood
I’ve lost count of how many photo frames I’ve bought over the years, but this one? Different league. Custtom printed one of my favourite family pictures onto a 40x40cm wooden frame. It’s myself and my son Diego at the seaside in Lido Adriano, as happy as ever. The quality is stunning – full colour, crisp detail, and those gorgeous vertical slats that give it a modern, gallery-style feel. This one is staying in my space, the kitchen. Diego keeps touching and smelling it saying ‘that’s us, Mamma, in our happy place!’ Worth every penny of the £52. Now I just need to stop walking past it and welling up.
Cards
We were sent a selection of thortful’s Mother’s Day cards to review ahead of the 13th March shipping deadline, and I have to be honest: I was pleasantly surprised. The quality stands out immediately. The cardstock is thick and premium-feeling – no flimsy paper here. The prints are crisp, colours vibrant, and they’ve held up well to handling. At £3.99 upwards, they offer good value for the quality. What’s genuinely impressive is the range. From Traitors and Harry Styles fans to cards celebrating single mums, queer mums, and those grieving – they’ve thought of everyone. The “single-handedly raising us” card for single mums is a standout. If you’re after something more substantial, the letterbox tulips and Biscuiteers gingerbread make nice add-ons. But honestly? The cards hold their own. Quality, thoughtful, and arrives beautifully packaged.
Home-made gifts
Comfort maternity clothing
PO.P Maternity Pyjamas – Comfort meets style
“I absolutely lived in these during my third trimester!” says Claire, mum of two from Hackney. “The soft organic cotton feels dreamy against my skin, and the button-down top made late-night feeds so much easier.”
Sophie, a first-time mum in Wandsworth, agrees: “The elastic waistband sits perfectly under my bump without feeling tight, and the adjustable drawstring means I can still wear them comfortably now that I’ve had my baby. Plus, they’re ridiculously soft – perfect for those early morning cuddles.”
And it’s not just comfort mums love: “Knowing they’re sustainably made makes me feel good about buying them,” adds Claire. “They’re a gift I’d recommend to any mum-to-be or new mum – practical, stylish and made to last!”
Soft, sustainable, and thoughtful – these maternity pyjamas are a Mother’s Day win for any mum needing a little everyday luxury.
HEYDUDE Wendy Slippers (Skyway Blue)
Reviewed by Carolina. Verdict: “From school run to sofa in one step.”
“I live in these. Genuinely. The HEYDUDE Wendy slippers in Skyway Blue arrived, and I don’t think they’ve left my feet since. Here’s the genius bit – they have a durable sole, so you can wear them outside. That means school run? Yes. Quick dash to the shops? Yes. Coffee with another mum? Also yes. Then you come home and they’re still cosy slippers. It’s the ultimate mum multitasker. The new Skyway Blue colour is gorgeous – a soft pastel that lifts my mood every time I look down. At £59.99, they’re not cheap, but they’re the kind of gift that says ‘I want you to be comfortable and stylish every single day.’ Leo keeps trying to steal them. No chance, little man.”
Fashion
JoJo Maman Bébé Bright Red Embroidered Puff Sleeve Shirred Gingham Maternity Midi Dress £55
Laura from Putney sent us her review: “As a mum of two (and having been pregnant not so long ago), I’ve tried my fair share of maternity dresses – but this one from JoJo Maman Bébé genuinely stood out for all the right reasons. The Bright Red Embroidered Puff Sleeve Shirred Gingham Maternity Midi Dress (£55) is one of those rare pieces that makes you feel instantly put-together with very little effort. The red gingham print is cheerful without being overpowering, and it has that timeless, summery feel that works just as well for a school run as it does for a relaxed weekend picnic.
What I loved most was the comfort. The shirred bust offers gentle support without feeling restrictive, which is a big win during pregnancy when your body is constantly changing. The fabric is soft, breathable cotton – ideal for warmer days or layering when it’s cooler. I could easily wear this all day without feeling uncomfortable, even while chasing after my two girls.
The embroidered sleeves are a lovely touch and elevate the dress from “nice” to something a bit more special. It’s those small details that make you feel like you’re still dressing for yourself, not just practicality.
Fit-wise, it’s very forgiving and grows with you, which makes it a great investment piece throughout pregnancy. I’d also say it’s one of those dresses you could continue wearing post-baby, which always feels like a bonus.
If I had one small note, it would be that the bold red might not be everyone’s first choice – but personally, I found it really uplifting and perfect for brightening up those days when you need a little boost.
Overall, a feel-good, easy-to-wear maternity dress that balances comfort, style and practicality beautifully. Definitely one I’d recommend to other mums-to-be.”
Accessories
MINISO Hello Kitty Denim Crossbody Bag
Price: £15.99
Available at: MINISO UK
This small crossbody bag is part of MINISO’s new Sanrio denim collection. It features an embroidered Hello Kitty motif on a denim fabric base, offering a casual, textured look.
Key Facts:
- Style: Handheld or crossbody (strap included).
- Material: Denim with embroidered detail.
- Capacity: Fits phone, keys, cardholder, and lipstick – suitable for essentials only.
- Target user: Hello Kitty fans or anyone wanting a low-cost, character-led accessory.
The Verdict
At under £16, it’s an affordable, fun gift for a Sanrio enthusiast. The denim makes it more durable than expected, and the crossbody strap keeps hands free. It won’t replace a daily workhorse bag, but as a small, cheerful treat for a mum or teen, it delivers exactly what it promises. Personally, it will become my favourite disco bag.
Rating: 4/5 – A cute, practical impulse buy that’s well-priced for the brand.
Stationary – Pen Heaven The Ladies Hamper
Price: £46.50
Available at: penheaven.co.uk
Online stationery specialist Pen Heaven offers a wide range of gifts, including options for personalisation. This hamper is one of their curated selections, assembled in a luxury gift box.
What’s Included:
- Parker Jotter XL Monochrome Pink Gold Ballpoint Pen – A standard-size refillable pen, fitted with a blue ink refill.
- Morris & Co Willow Boughs Fabric Pencil Case – A fabric case featuring the classic William Morris pattern.
- Morris & Co Daffodil Stationery Set Organiser with Pencil – A stationery set including an organiser and pencil, matching the design theme.
The Details:
All items are presented in a black gift box with a gold ribbon. The set coordinates around a vintage-inspired, floral aesthetic. Pen Heaven offers free UK delivery on orders over £30.
Writer’s Note:
As someone who writes daily, I found this set genuinely practical. The Parker pen is a solid, reliable writer, and the combination of the organiser and pencil case is useful for keeping a desk tidy. Having a dedicated, attractive space and a nice pen does provide a simple motivation to jot things down by hand, whether for work notes or drafting poems.
The Verdict
At £46.50, this represents good value for a bundled set of brand-name stationery. It works well as a coherent gift for someone who appreciates classic design and writing by hand. The presentation box makes it ready to give, and the individual pieces are all usable, not just decorative.
Tip: For an extra personal touch, check Pen Heaven’s engraving services on other items if you’re considering a matching gift.
Books
Beauty essentials
Tolpa Authentic Facial Toner – £7.19
“As a mum of two with permanently dehydrated ‘school-run skin’, I’m fussy about what goes anywhere near my face. This toner is brilliantly no-nonsense – no fragrance, no fuss, just results. Within a week my skin felt smoother and properly hydrated, not tight or tingly. I love that it’s only nine ingredients and still manages to gently exfoliate without upsetting my sensitive skin. At this price, it’s a Mother’s Day treat that won’t make you wince at the checkout.” – Sarah M., mum of two, Richmond
Optima Natura N-Active Oil Fragrance Mist Sleep – £8.49
“Bedtime in our house is usually chaos, so I’ve started claiming five minutes of calm for myself. A light spritz of this on my pillow (and sometimes my pyjamas) and the lavender-citrus blend instantly makes the room feel like a spa rather than a laundry station. It’s alcohol-free, natural and beautifully subtle – not overpowering. For under £10, it’s the little sleep ritual I didn’t know I needed.” – Priya L., mum of three, Finchley
Megi Wellness Scalp Activation Duo
Reviewed by Carolina. Verdict: “Me time, hair care edition.”
“Postpartum hair is… a journey. So when Megi Wellness sent their Scalp Activation Duo, I was ready to try anything. It contains a medical-grade derma roller and a growth-stimulating serum, and honestly? Using it feels like a spa ritual. The roller glides across your scalp (gentle, not scary), then you massage in the serum. It’s calming, mindful, and my hair genuinely feels healthier. At £47.98, it’s a proper treat for the mum who deserves to feel pampered. Even Leo, who normally interrupts everything, leaves me alone for those five minutes. Miraculous.”
Faith in Nature Lavender & Geranium Hand & Body Range
Reviewed by Laura. Verdict: “Five minutes of calm in a bottle.”
“You know those rare, precious moments when the kids are occupied and you can actually hear yourself think? That’s when I reach for this. Faith in Nature’s Lavender & Geranium range is my new secret weapon. The scent is proper aromatherapy – English lavender and geranium essential oils that actually relax you. Not synthetic ‘relaxing scent’ nonsense. The real deal. I’ve been using the hand wash at the kitchen sink (multiple times daily, obviously) and the body lotion after my shower – which, let’s be honest, is the only ‘me time’ I get. The formulas are vegan, cruelty-free, and free from all the nasty stuff. Plus at £4.99 for the hand wash and £7.99 for the lotion, you can treat yourself and your mum. I’m buying a set for my own mum – she deserves a slice of calm too.”
From £4.99 | faithinnature.co.uk
Gadgets
Canyon Pink Wireless Keyboard & Mouse Set
Reviewed by Rosalba. Verdict: “My WFH setup finally brings me joy.”
“Working from home as a mum means my ‘office’ is a corner of the kitchen, usually with Lego underfoot and Luca asking questions every 12 seconds. So when the Canyon pink keyboard and mouse set arrived, I didn’t expect much. But honestly? It’s transformed my little workspace. The soft pink colour makes me smile every time I sit down, and it actually works brilliantly – the mouse has dual-mode connectivity (2.4GHz and Bluetooth), adjustable DPI up to 2400, and silent click buttons tested for 3 million clicks. The keyboard is full-size, comfortable to type on, and connects wirelessly up to 10 metres away. At £19.99 for the keyboard and £16.99 for the mouse (exclusively at Ryman), it’s affordable, practical, and genuinely cheering. Every mum who works from home deserves a workspace that sparks joy.”
Home
CuddleCo Country Cottage Storage Baskets – Set of 3
As any parent knows, keeping a nursery or playroom tidy can feel like an endless mission. That’s why I love products that are both practical and beautiful, and the Country Cottage Storage Baskets from CuddleCo manage to strike that balance perfectly. Made from natural rattan, these charming baskets bring a warm, rustic touch to a child’s bedroom while helping keep toys, books and everyday essentials organised. The set includes three different sizes, which makes them incredibly versatile – perfect for everything from cuddly toys to storybooks. What I particularly like is that they feel stylish enough to leave on display, rather than something you want to hide away. They blend beautifully with most nursery décor and add a cosy, country-inspired feel to the room. Sturdy, practical and aesthetically pleasing, these baskets are a lovely solution for families who want to reduce clutter without sacrificing style.
LEGO Botanicals – Tulip Bouquet
Reviewed by Monica, mum to Diego (19) – and proud recipient of this year’s Mother’s Day gift
Verdict: “Finally, flowers that won’t die before I’ve finished the washing up.”
Let me set the scene: Diego, my 19-year-old, has reached that stage where Mother’s Day gifts are either panic-bought or genuinely thoughtful. This year? He smashed it. The LEGO Botanicals Tulip Bouquet arrived, and honestly? I’m obsessed. Five varieties of tulips in different colours and stages of bloom – green buds, purple closed ones, and fully opened red, yellow and pink beauties. The stems are adjustable, so I can arrange them exactly how I want. No floral arranging skills required. No water. No sad drooping a week later. Diego is so good to build Lego so he built them while I watched him (the kit comes with two instruction booklets, which is a lovely touch), and now they sit on my kitchen looking permanently perfect. Every time I walk past, I think: these will never die. Just like my love for that boy.
At £40ish, it’s the gift that keeps on giving – no watering, no wilting, just pure, colourful joy. Even better? You can mix and match with other LEGO Botanicals sets. I’ve got my eye on the roses next. Best. Tulips. Ever.
B&M Garden Life Wildflower Printed Duvet Set
Reviewed by Carolina. Verdict: “My bedroom finally feels like mine.”
“Somewhere between nappies and night feeds, I forgot that my bedroom could be a sanctuary. This duvet set reminded me.The Garden Life Wildflower print is gorgeous – a chic floral design in soft colours that makes the room feel fresh and spring-like even when it’s grey outside. It’s 50% polyester, 50% cotton, so it’s soft and washes well (essential when you have a baby who occasionally… expresses herself). At B&M prices, it’s an absolute steal. I’m buying a second set just to have a spare. My bedroom now feels like an actual grown-up space, not just another room full of baby stuff. Mum win.” Price varies | bmstores.co.uk
Willow Plant Sensor
Reviewed by Monica, mum to Diego (19) and proud owner of four houseplants (three of which are currently surviving). Verdict: “Finally, a plant killer no more!”
“Right, confession: I am officially a reformed plant murderer. My track record was bleak – peace lilies wept when I walked past. Then Willow arrived, and everything changed. This clever little sensor lives in the soil and connects to an app that tells you exactly what your plant needs. Not vague ‘bright indirect light’ nonsense -actual data. It measures moisture every 15 minutes, tracks light exposure, even monitors humidity and temperature. When it alerted me that my fiddle-leaf fig was overexposed, I moved it six inches to the left and saved its life. Six inches! Diego now calls me ‘Plant Doctor Mamma.’ The sensor costs a bit, but compare that to replacing dead plants every month? Bargain. Best gift for the mum who deserves thriving greenery.”
Prices vary | plantwithwillow.co.uk
Personalised cakes and sweet treats
“I’m Natalie and live in Barnes, a London mum of two girls (aged 6 and 9), and anything that combines food and memories is an instant win in our house – so trying a personalised cake from ASDA felt like a no-brainer.
I decided to create a photo cake for a family Sunday lunch, using one of our favourite holiday pictures. The process in-store was surprisingly easy and actually quite fun – the girls loved choosing the image and seeing it come to life on a cake. It turned into a bit of an outing rather than just a shopping trip. When we brought it home, the reaction was priceless. My youngest immediately shouted, ‘Mummy, that’s us on a cake!’ – and honestly, that’s exactly the magic of it. It’s not just dessert, it becomes the centrepiece of the table and a real conversation starter.
Taste-wise, I’ll admit I wasn’t expecting anything extraordinary given the price point – but I was pleasantly surprised. The sponge was soft and light, and the icing wasn’t overly sweet, which made it enjoyable for both kids and adults. It’s the kind of cake that actually gets eaten, not just admired. What really stood out for me is the value. For under £20, you get something that feels completely bespoke and meaningful, without the stress (or cost) of ordering from a specialist bakery. As a busy mum, that convenience is everything. If I had one tip, I’d say take a moment to choose a bright, clear photo – it really makes a difference to the final result.
Overall, this is such a simple but effective way to make everyday family moments feel special. We’ll definitely be doing this again for birthdays – and I’m already thinking ahead to Mother’s Day.”
MELT Chocolates The Book of Botanicals Collection
Reviewed by Laura. Verdict: “Hide these from the children.”
“MELT Chocolates are handmade in Notting Hill, and they are serious chocolate. The Book of Botanicals Collection contains eight chocolate bars filled with ganache and pâte de fruit in floral and fruity flavours -Bergamot, Jasmine, Cherry, Raspberry, Mint. The presentation is stunning – it comes in a beautiful book-style box that feels genuinely luxurious. And the chocolate? Exquisite. The Jasmine bar was my favourite – delicate, floral, not too sweet. I hid it at the back of the cupboard and sneaked pieces after the kids went to bed. At £89.99, it’s a serious treat for a serious chocolate lover. For something more affordable, the Pistachio & Hazelnut Praline Infinity Box (£24.99) is also divine. Either way, your mum deserves luxury chocolate.”
£89.99 / £24.99 | meltchocolates.com
Health
Grass & Co. DREAM Mushroom Capsules
Reviewed by Laura. Verdict: “The sleep support I didn’t know I needed.”
“Let’s be honest – mums don’t sleep. We just… close our eyes occasionally. So when Grass & Co. offered to send their DREAM capsules, I was sceptical but hopeful. They contain full-spectrum Reishi mushroom, magnesium, sage, and vitamins B5, B6, and D – all designed to support calm, restful sleep. I’ve been taking them for two weeks, and I genuinely notice a difference. I fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer, and wake up feeling more human. At £26.50, they’re an investment in wellbeing. The kind of gift that says ‘I want you to actually rest.’ Every mum deserves that permission.”
From high-tech helpers to indulgent treats, this year’s Mother’s Day gifts are all about making mum feel seen, supported, and celebrated. Whether she’s a new mum navigating sleepless nights, a seasoned pro juggling school runs and careers, or a grandmother who deserves the world. There’s something here for everyone.
Baby stuff
Inglesina Elysia Nursing Pillow
Reviewed by Gaby. Verdict: “My arms, my back, my sanity – saved.”
“Breastfeeding is beautiful and natural and also really, really hard on your body. The Inglesina Elysia nursing pillow arrived when Elena was two weeks old, and honestly? Life-changing. It’s designed to support both mum and baby in multiple positions – I’ve used it for breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, and even as a support when Elena just wants to be held. The cover is removable and washable (essential), and the shape means she stays positioned correctly without me hunching like a gargoyle. At around £40-50, it’s the gift every new mum needs but won’t buy herself. I’m buying one for my pregnant friend immediately.”
Infantino Print Flip 4-in-1 Convertible Carrier Leopard
Reviewed by Lea. Verdict: “Fashion meets function -with a few cheetah-print caveats.”
“Let me be real with you: I’ve been baby-wearing for over seven years across three children, so I’ve tried more carriers than hot dinners. When the Infantino Flip arrived in this glorious leopard print, I’ll admit – I got excited. Finally, a carrier that doesn’t look like it was designed by someone’s dad in the 90s! Lucy is 5 months now, squarely in the ‘I want to see everything but also please hold me’ phase. The Infantino Flip gives us four carrying positions – facing-in narrow for tiny newborns, facing-in wide for older babies, facing-out once they’ve got strong head control, and back carry for when they’re toddlers. That’s a lot of bang for your buck. The adjustable seat is genuinely clever – you can switch between narrow and wide positions as baby grows, which supposedly helps maintain that ergonomic ‘M’ position for healthy hips . The padded shoulder straps and supportive waistband do transfer weight to your hips rather than your poor spine, which matters when you’re carrying a rapidly growing 7kg lump of love. But – and this is important – I need to be honest with my fellow mums. This carrier has limitations. After about 30-40 minutes with Lucy, my lower back starts complaining . It’s fine for school runs and quick supermarket dashes, but if you’re planning a full day at the zoo or a long museum visit? Your back will remind you why premium carriers cost more. The fit is also a bit… particular. I’m average-sized (UK size 12), and it works fine. But my taller friend Lilly tried it and found the straps dug in strangely. If you’re very petite or plus-size, you might struggle to get it dialled in perfectly. One mum online put it perfectly: ‘Great for the price, works well for 30 minutes, for longer periods invest in something cushier’. And she’s right. The leopard print, though? Chef’s kiss. I’ve had strangers compliment it at soft play. It folds down small enough to stuff in the changing bag , and when Lucy inevitably spits up on it (she always does), it wipes clean easily. Would I recommend it? Yes – with caveats. For the budget-conscious mum, occasional baby-wearer, or anyone who wants a stylish backup carrier, it’s brilliant. But if you’re a daily, all-day baby-wearer? Save up for something with better lumbar support. Your back will thank you.”
Price varies by retailer | Available at major online baby store.
Weight range: 8-32 lbs (approx. 3.6-14.5 kg)
Carrying positions: 4 (facing-in narrow, facing-in wide, facing-out, back carry)
Best for: Occasional use, stylish mums on a budget, grandparents’ house backup
Ready for the summer, glam mums?
Bling2o Rose Quartz Vibrancy Swim Goggles
Reviewed by Monica. Verdict: “Finally, goggles that match my ‘I haven’t slept but I still look fabulous’ energy.”
“Let’s be honest – swimming as a mum is less ‘elegant dolphin’ and more ‘desperate attempt to exercise while the kids are at nursery before the school run.’ But these goggles? They make me feel like an Olympic athlete who also happens to own a yacht. The Rose Quartz colour is gorgeous. Like, actually too pretty to shove in a sweaty gym bag. Luckily, they come with a hard carry case and a microfibre bag – fancy! – so my fancy pink goggles stay fancy. No more digging them out from under Leo’s soggy towel. The lenses offer maximum UV protection and anti-fog coating, which means I can actually see where I’m going. Revolutionary. And the 100% silicone straps are adjustable and comfortable – no more raccoon eyes or that ‘my face is being squeezed by a angry octopus’ feeling. At £23, they’re a proper treat. The 12+ age recommendation is spot on – these are proper adult goggles, not flimsy kiddie stuff. All mine.”
Happy Mother’s Day from all of us at London Mums Magazine!
All products were tested by real London mums. Reviews are honest and unpaid. Some samples were provided for testing purposes.
Monica Costa founded London Mums in September 2006 after her son Diego’s birth together with a group of mothers who felt the need of meeting up regularly to share the challenges and joys of motherhood in metropolitan and multicultural London. London Mums is the FREE and independent peer support group for mums and mumpreneurs based in London https://www.londonmumsmagazine.com and you can connect on Twitter @londonmums
