Archives: Gift Guides

We’re huge proponents of dividing and conquering when it comes to expensive gift purchases, especially if it means you can get something your recipient really wants, like the Cadillac of kitchen tools. This coveted KitchenAid mixer is currently on sale on Amazon, making it a bit more affordable. Jennifer Garner swears by this model, saying she uses it almost daily for breads, muffins, and cookies. She was given one years ago, and she says it’s one of the best gifts she’s ever received.

This is definitely a splurge, but every mom deserves a gift that’s as special as she is. Soft quilted leather in a stunning, buttery yellow color makes this Chanel cardholder a true statement piece that’ll last for years. This specific wallet has been pre-loved, but Amazon did all the work of authenticating it — and ensuring it’s in like-new condition.

Crisp apple and spicy clove combine in this candle to create a fragrance that’s deliciously complex. Not only does it smell amazing, but the candle itself is hand-poured into a reusable glass printed with a 22-karat gold quote from James Baldwin: “Love brought you here.” It also brought them this candle, if you want to be technical about it.

If a candle alone doesn’t feel like a sufficient gift, consider pairing it with a warming lamp that’s functional and gorgeous. Not only will it slowly melt any candle placed under its light, allowing the scent to fill the room, but it also gives off a warm glow that lends itself to the hygge vibe everyone’s after these days. Plus, it eliminates the need for an open flame, so the house won’t burn down if they accidentally leave this on all night. Essentially, you’re gifting them one less thing to worry about, packaged into a gorgeous accent item that’ll enhance self-care. Good luck topping that next year.

Monogrammed jewelry has been a go-to gift for decades for a reason — it doesn’t get much more personal than this. And isn’t an ultra-personal gift what we’re all hunting for? Thankfully, jewelry design has come a long way in those decades, so the flashy personalized charms of the ’90s aren’t your only option. This necklace can feature up to five names in small, subtle writing, with dainty corresponding birthstones. It comes in three length options and can be made in silver, gold, or rose gold.

Opening up a suitcase to find necklaces and rings in a mangled mess isn’t the best way to start a trip. Instead, pamper the traveler in your life with the gift of tangle-free accessories forever: This tiny case has compartments for rings, earrings, and bracelets; hooks to keep necklaces from knotting and tangling; and a small mirror for impromptu makeup checks. It’s designed for travel, but the beautiful velvet box can also keep things organized on a dresser top or vanity.

Since the dawn of time, mother-daughter bonds have been cherished. But for those who enjoy seeing sweet reminders of that connection throughout their day, this jewelry dish is a thoughtful treat. It’s perfect for holding everyday gems, but it also could be used as a coaster, spoon rest, or catch-all dish near the front door.

Every mom deserves rest and relaxation, and for those who have trouble drifting off at night, a weighted eye mask may help. Its soft material feels great against skin, and the weighted beads inside provide slight ocular pressure that promotes relaxation (similar to the benefits of a weighted blanket). The mask can also be heated or chilled depending on the wearer’s preference, and the pull-through strap design means it’s infinitely adjustable for all noggin sizes.

We say this pretty much every holiday, but we stand by it: Apple AirPods are a foolproof gift, no matter the recipient or the occasion. Their sound quality will make your giftee feel like they’re front row at a concert, the sleek design will adapt to anyone’s ears, and — while they’re pricey — the mom in your life will appreciate the investment. If you need further convincing, we detailed all the reasons why AirPods deserve the hype. 

When we asked Wake-Up Call readers to share a book that changed their lives, this pick was at the top of the list. As one participant beautifully voiced, “It’s not just a book to give to people facing loss. It’s also a book that will help you live more fully, and be more present for whatever time you have left.” Sounds like something any parent would appreciate.

To create your own bundled gift, buy them a Kindle and preload it with the aforementioned book. This one’s glare-free, paper-like display will be easy on their eyes; plus it weighs less than your typical paperback and  can carry up to 16 GB worth of books. We’re also incredibly impressed by its battery life — one charge can last up to six weeks of reading.   

Microcurrent devices are some of the trendiest products in the skincare game right now, and we can see why: The tools stimulate the muscles and skin with electrical signals, addressing fine lines and loss of collagen. It’s not for everyone, but if those are the skincare concerns your giftee wants to tackle, start with a product from NuFace, the leading brand in microcurrent tools. 

It seems fitting that one of the most beloved, finicky, and precious flowers is in season for Mother’s Day. (Not to imply that mom is finicky, but you never know.) If you’re looking to send a bouquet to your far-afield loved ones, test out Amazon’s selection of flowers; plus, their interface is slightly easier to navigate than typical flower-delivery sites. This bouquet includes 15 tulip stems that are Rainforest Alliance-certified and sustainably grown in California.

Because this lip mask is a luxury beauty product, we think it makes an excellent gift for someone who might not buy it for themselves. With more than 20,000 5-star reviews on Amazon, Laneige’s cult-favorite product is considered one of the best formulas for getting baby-soft lips, and comes in four delicious scents including the bestselling berry (but we think the vanilla version is a close second). 

The mom who’s “always right” will find this cheeky card game a riot — the trivia game asks the players a question and a judge determines the winner. But if you don’t know the answer, you need to lie and convince the judge otherwise. In other words, this is their chance to prove mother really does know best. 

For the coffee-averse, there are other caffeinated drinks to make mornings bearable. And if they haven’t tried matcha yet, their a.m. routine is about to get so much yummier. Golde’s 100 percent pure Japanese ceremonial-grade powder is clean and delicious without any added sweeteners. It’s a bonus that green tea is a natural superfood with L-Theanine, which provides a gentler boost of energy than coffee and aids in digestion, too.

Not everyone belongs in the kitchen, but for those who love it there, maybe it’s time to upgrade their cookware. This nonstick set will please both beginners and pros alike, and it looks and performs way better than its price might suggest. (Reviewers say this set is a great value but do warn that sometimes the handles get a little hot; throw in a cute pot holder as a bonus gift, et voilà, problem solved.)

Calling all cuddly moms! The Comfy — a giant wearable blanket that’s way better than your typical robe — is one of the best things to come out of Shark Tank. If you want to make your Mother’s Day gift even more meaningful, gift her The Comfy and plan a fun movie night on the couch, complete with her favorite snacks. 

For the mom who wants a peaceful bath or a spa day but can’t find the time, make her bathroom as luxurious as a high-end soak by supplying her with scented shower steamers. All she’ll need to do is pop one of these on the shower floor as she starts to wash up, and the bomb will create aromatic steam via scents like eucalyptus or lavender that’ll instantly boost her mood. 

What parent doesn’t deserve a foot massage? With this, she can get one every night, without having to ask anyone to touch her toes. Not only will it knead her feet with up to five different pressure settings, but she can choose from rolling to vibrating and adjust the heat. The only challenge? Getting her to actually sit down for once. But once she does, good luck getting her up. 

Making jam at home can be time-consuming, which is why we tend to buy it from the pros. This trio brings a taste of Southern hospitality to your doorstep, with vegan, low-sugar flavors like smoked yellow peach, strawberry chipotle and fig, and sour cherry ginger. It even comes with a digital cookbook full of delicious ways to incorporate the unique jams.

We’re well aware that Wake-Up Call readers love a belt bag, but we unearthed an option that costs a fraction of most competitors. It’s super-cute, has multiple interior pockets to keep you organized, and comes in 20 amazing colors. Style-wise, the simple design works for both athletic pursuits and a casual night out.  

A reliable suitcase is a must-have for travel lovers. Gift this super-affordable option from Amazon’s in-house brand, which comes with almost 30,000 5-star reviews. And while rolling suitcases can be a vacation nightmare if they’re not made properly, customers love this one: “The spinner wheels are a standout feature of this suitcase. They are smooth, quiet, and make it easy to navigate through airports and hotels.”