29 Mother-of-the-Bride Gifts That'll Earn You a Big Hug
It's not every day that a mother gets to see her daughter walk down the aisle, so it's understandable if emotions are running a little high. Make this special moment even more memorable by treating her to thoughtful mother-of-the-bride gifts. Need some shopping inspo? We've rounded up the best mother-of-the-bride gift ideas, from sentimental tokens of appreciation to wearable pieces for the big day.
We're also sharing expert answers to common FAQs, like what exactly makes a good wedding gift for your parents and when to hand over your present. (After all, she can't give you a proper thank-you hug while you're getting your makeup done!) Check out our favorite gifts for the mother of the bride, AKA the special lady who has loved and supported you over the years.
In this article:
Our Favorite Mother-of-the-Bride Gifts
To celebrate Mom, your rock and number-one supporter, we've curated a list of meaningful mother-of-the-bride gifts. These thoughtful picks are sure to put a smile on her face.
1. Custom Photo Clutch
This custom clutch is one of the best mother-of-the-bride gifts, as it's both practical and personal. When your mom opens it, she'll be greeted with a gorgeous photo of the two of you printed on the lining. She'll think of you whenever she needs to touch up her lipstick or reach for tissues.
2. Swarovski Tennis Bracelet
Jewelry is always a good idea for a gift to your mom from the bride. This crystal tennis bracelet will add a touch of sparkle to her wedding day outfit and any other ensemble after that. Choose from four different colors (we love the clear white gemstones) for a chic accessory that's as sophisticated as she is.
Use the code Theknot10 to get 10% off your purchase.
3. Photo Travel Case
Here's a thoughtful present for Mom on the wedding day: a travel-sized case for her makeup, toiletries or jewelry. Available in six shades, it's made from leather with gold-toned hardware and can be foil-debossed with her monogram or a short message. A personalized photo insert makes it uniquely hers.
4. Pearl Drop Earrings
How pretty would your mom look wearing these pearl drop earrings on the wedding day? They're made from sterling silver and freshwater cultured pearls, and look great with hair styled up or down. Not only are they a good mother wedding gift, but they're a stylish accessory she can dig out again for future events.
5. Cashmere Silk Wrap
This mother-of-the-bride gift will help your mom stay warm (and chic) when temperatures drop. The silk and cashmere wrap comes in various classic colors, making it easy to match her wedding outfit. She could also wear it to the rehearsal dinner or the day-after celebration.
6. Custom Wedding Illustration
Personalized mother-of-the-bride gifts are ideal for brides seeking a heartfelt way to say thank you. Memorialize your special bond with a custom illustration that depicts you two on your special day. Add your personalization details (like hairstyle, skin color and outfit) and choose from several framing options before handing it over. Trust us, your mom will be delighted with this unique offering.
7. Birth Month Flower Ring Dish
Keep the mother of the bride's rings safe with a cute trinket dish. This heart-shaped piece features her birth flower preserved in clear resin for a beautiful keepsake. The flowers are real blossoms hand-picked from Colombian gardens, making this MOB gift even more special.
8. Digital Picture Frame
A digital photo frame is one of our favorite wedding gifts for the mother of the bride. Think about it: who else would you rather preview all your wedding photos? Once you get the snapshots, upload them to this clever device for her to admire. Best of all, you can keep adding and sharing pictures from other events, like your honeymoon.
9. Embroidered Compact Mirror
This compact mirror makes an ideal mother-of-the-bride gift from her daughter. It's embroidered with colorful floral motifs and will add a whimsical touch to her purse essentials. Pair it with a heartfelt note that reads, "Mom, I am who I am today as a reflection of you," to create a truly memorable gift.
10. Engraved Glass Jewelry Box
Planning to write a letter to your mom on your wedding day? Instead of using pen and paper, have your words engraved on this glass jewelry box. The lid is etched with a budding flower and your personalized message, while a soft velvet lining helps keep pieces scratch-free. Hide a new accessory inside to surprise her.
Use the code KNOT15PM to receive 15% off your order.
11. Mama Disc Necklace
Jewelry gifts for the mother of the bride aren't confined to baubles for the wedding day. We love how cute and whimsical this gold-filled necklace is, and we think your mom will too. The simple round disc is hand-stamped with the word "Mama," for a sweet tribute to the woman who raised you. It's an understated accessory she can wear with any ensemble.
12. Custom-Etched Wine Bottle
Encourage your mom to sit back and sip a glass of red wine from this custom-engraved bottle of cabernet sauvignon. Create a short message, like, "I love you Mom, on my wedding day and forever." Then, let the rose-gold floral frame seal the deal for an ooh-worthy gift. Cheers!
13. Embroidered Handkerchief
Happy tears are almost guaranteed on your wedding day, especially from your mother. Help her prepare for any emotional moments with this pretty handkerchief. It's embroidered with your wedding details and a touching message that may just make her cry. Even if she doesn't use it to dry her eyes, she'll treasure this sentimental keepsake forever.
14. Interlocking Heart Bracelet
If you haven't noticed, we think symbolic jewelry is one of the best mother-of-the-bride gifts. This gold-plated bracelet features two interlocking hearts as a clasp, reflecting your mother-daughter bond. She can wear it with everything, from her wedding attire to more casual outfits.
15. Luxurious Pajamas
Searching for luxury mother-of-the-bride gifts? Eberjey's pajamas are the ultimate way to treat your mom. They're made from soft modal fabric and come in an array of gorgeous colors, like coral, eucalyptus green and ice blue. Have them monogrammed with "MOB" for a fun tribute to her wedding role.
16. Hand Cream Set
Fancy hand cream is another mother-of-the-bride present that'll make her feel pampered. The Nécessaire Hand Duo features two creams: a moisturizing balm for daytime and a retinol-infused serum for overnight hydration. It's a practical gift that'll enhance her wedding day mani and beyond.
17. Herbal Warming Slippers
These faux fur slippers have a hidden surprise that'll elevate your mom's chill-out time. The memory foam insoles are filled with dried French lavender for a soothing scent, but that's not all. They can also be warmed in the microwave for toasty toes or chilled in the freezer to cool down her feet. She'll appreciate this thoughtful mother-of-the-bride gift after dancing the night away.
18. Pearlescent Jar Candle
Candles are always a good gift idea, especially for the mother of the bride. This pearlescent Capri Blue Volcano candle is a fun way to thank her for being your guiding light all these years. The popular scent is a refreshing blend of tropical fruits and sugared citrus that smells just like an Anthro store. Consider us sold.
19. Celestial-Inspired Earrings
Here's another mother-of-the-bride thank-you gift she can wear to the wedding. These celestial-inspired earrings are the perfect tribute to your super-star mom without being over the top. They're made from 14K gold fill or sterling silver and feature a dainty star suspended from a chain. We love how the understated design works with any hairstyle too.
20. Mother-of-the-Bride Mug
Treat her to this essential MOB gift—a mug printed with her special title—on the morning of your wedding. Both glass and ceramic variations are available, so it's perfect for hot and chilled beverages alike. Fill it with her favorite iced coffee or herbal tea to give her the VIP treatment.
21. Fragrant Flowers
Nothing will put a smile on a mom's face like fresh flowers. This bursting bouquet combines red carnations with pink roses and alstroemeria, evoking a sense of romance. Schedule the delivery a few days after your nuptials for a thoughtful mother-of-the-bride gift from the bride, groom or newlyweds.
22. Birth Flower Robe
A robe is a great bridesmaid gift, but it's also a thoughtful present for the mother of the bride. Perfect for the getting-ready suite, this floral robe will ensure she feels comfy and stylish while she's getting her makeup done. It's made from soft, sustainably-sourced lyocell and decorated with her birth flowers. Best of all, she can wear it after the wedding to relax and unwind every evening.
23. Under-Eye Gels
Another way to approach buying mother-of-the-bride gifts is to swap one big present for smaller treats like luxe toiletries. These Grace & Stella under-eye gels are the perfect thing to throw into a care package for your mom. They're packed with hydrating ingredients and will help her look and feel bright-eyed on the wedding day. (Psst: They're sold as multi-packs, so you can nab a few for yourself, too.)
24. Self-Care Subscription
When shopping for gifts for the mother of the bride, look for something treat-worthy. This monthly subscription will ensure she makes time for self-care before the wedding (or even afterward when all the excitement has died down). Every month, she'll receive luxurious goodies like crystal bath fizzers and lavender body spray to help her unwind. Choose from three or six months for a thoughtful MOB gift that keeps on giving.
25. Funny MOB Wine Glass
Wedding gifts for a mom from her daughter don't always have to be sentimental. If she has a great sense of humor, she'll appreciate this "Because I'm the mother of the bride" wine glass. It's a fun present to give at the rehearsal dinner, so she can show it off to the wedding party! Pair it with her favorite bottle of vino for a thoughtful touch.
26. Custom Embroidered Sweatshirt
Searching for practical and personal mom-of-the-bride gifts? This soft sweatshirt ticks both boxes. It's made from a cotton-polyester blend and can be embroidered with her name, wedding day title or a cute phrase on the front and cuffs. Choose from three shades to suit her style.
Want to get 15% off? Use the KNOT15PM code at checkout.
27. Leather Lipstick Holder
Here's a unique mother-of-the-bride gift for a glamorous mom. This leather lipstick holder gives us old-school Hollywood vibes while still feeling modern and chic. It comes in various colors and has a handy clip attachment to secure it to her purse. She'll feel like a movie star every time she whips this out for quick touch-ups. (Bonus: You can personalize it, too.)
28. Magnolia Brooch
Magnolias represent dignity and nobility, making this brooch an especially fitting mother-of-the-bride gift. It recalls the famous Magnolia Vase in The Met collection, the centerpiece of the Tiffany & Co. display at the 1893 Chicago World's Fair. Crafted from a silver plate and hand-painted enamel, it'll add an elegant touch to her wedding outfit.
29. Mother-of-the-Bride Candle
We love candles so much that we've included two on our list of MOB gift ideas. This one will give her flashbacks to your wedding day whenever she gets a whiff. The fragranced flame has a sweet wedding cake scent and displays a heartwarming message on the front. Pair this Etsy mother-of-the-bride gift with a mini jar of matches for a cute touch.
Mother-of-the-Bride Gift Etiquette FAQ
We get it: MOB gifting can be confusing, so it's normal if you're feeling a little lost. To help you figure out the dos and don'ts, we're breaking down the most-asked questions about shopping for mother-of-the-bride gifts. Read on for our advice.
Should you give the mother of the bride a gift?
When it comes to gift-giving on the wedding day, it's customary for the couple to buy presents for the wedding party and both sets of parents, including the mother of the bride. Many brides choose to give their mom a personal and sentimental gift before or after the ceremony. However, future sons- or daughters-in-law often surprise the mother of the bride with a thoughtful gift to express gratitude for raising the person of their dreams. Couples can also choose to give gifts jointly. Ultimately, it's a meaningful way to thank her for everything she's done to support your special day, whether financially, emotionally or in any other way.
What about mother-of-the-bride gifts from friends?
Gifts for a mother of the bride from friends aren't expected, but they are a thoughtful way to celebrate her daughter's wedding. Consider pampering her with self-care goodies, inviting her for a coffee date or gifting a bottle of wine before the wedding. You could also opt for wedding party swag that proudly showcases her important role. (Don't forget to finish things off with a heartfelt mother-of-the-bride card message.)
When's the best time to give your mom a gift?
Deciding when to give your mother-of-the-bride gift usually depends on what it is. If it's something she'll need for the wedding day (like new earrings or a personalized hankie), the rehearsal dinner or wedding morning is the perfect time to present your gift. Our advice? Find some time when you aren't multitasking or busy getting ready so you can focus on her. Otherwise, you can give your gift shortly after the wedding. This makes sense for commemorative mother-of-the-bride presents, like a framed photo from the big day.
What's a great gift for the mother of the bride?
A great gift for the mother of the bride can be something she wears on the wedding day, like mother-of-the-bride jewelry or a luxurious robe for when she's getting ready. Alternatively, you can't go wrong with a personalized option if you're looking for a more unique mother-of-the-bride gift (think: an engraved wine glass or a chic monogrammed accessory). Practical presents are worthwhile options, too. Look for gifts she'll actually use, like something inspired by her hobbies or a wellness gift to help her relax before (or after) the celebrations. Remember, you know your mom best, and she'll appreciate the thought behind this gift more than anything else.
Our team received [some of] these products as promotional samples in exchange for editorial consideration and independent review.
Alison Meehan contributed to this article.