In my opinion, Southern mothers and mother figures are the backbone of our region’s culture and deserve to be spoiled not just on Mother’s Day but every day. Still, a once-a-year ballyhoo will do, and gifts that bring beauty, comfort, or inspiration always feel right. Below are some of my favorite things for all the wonderful women I know raising good humans.
Travel Buddies
Now that I’m a mom, I appreciate multiple travel bags to keep toiletries (and small toys and snacks!) organized on trips. These matching bags by Marigold Living come in four handy sizes. I like the large for toiletries, and the pencil bag is perfect for charging cords. Bonus: They’re washable. $20–$38; marigoldliving.com
Sleep Stars
It’s no secret that I’m a fan of the sister design duo behind the Texas clothing company Mirth. These pajamas are made in cotton that feels so airy and light in the warmer months and are a thoughtful gesture for moms needing a little extra R&R. $118; ggfieldshop.com
Go for the Gold
These studs by LAGOS remind me of intricate beadwork and make a pretty addition to the everyday Mom uniform, and they work equally well for moms who skew more Lululemon, dress to the nines, or somewhere in between. $995; lagos.com
Pop of Color
I love the rainbow hues in this stackable ring by Austin’s Kendra Scott. It’s a beautiful way to bring a little color and whimsy to a jewelry collection. I like to wear it with two skinny gold bands on either side. $70; kendrascott.com
True Blue
To me there is just something mood-boosting about a print that incorporates exuberant color combinations. This featherweight cotton voile dress by La Double J takes its cues from vintage Italian fabrics from the sixties and seventies, with a motif reminiscent of sea fans. It’s like wearing joyful art. $785; tnuck.com
Kitchen Helper
I recently purchased this shallow oval baker from Le Creuset and now I use it constantly to roast just about anything, from gratins to near-nightly roasted vegetables. The pan’s versatility, weight, sturdy handles, and ease of cleanup are really hard to beat. $200; lecreuset.com
Personal Statement
The bags from the Texas-based Leatherology are soft, beautifully made, reasonably priced, and available with so many options for making them your own. Right now my favorite look is this mini tote in blue with a quilted trapunto monogram. From $225; leatherology.com
Garden Therapy
Sometimes all that’s needed for a little escape from the chaos of mothering is a deep dive into an inspiring book, especially a calming one like Jonathan Drori’s Around the World in 80 Plants. This gorgeously illustrated collection of stories examines the history, science, and folklore of plants from all corners of the globe, from dandelions to tomatoes to mandrake. $25; ggfieldshop.com
Stepping Out
I’ve long admired the beautiful and ethical pieces produced by Nisolo in Nashville. I’m especially fond of these comfortable clog sandals because they’re tough as nails while also possessing a chameleon-like ability to go with everything. $160; nisolo.com
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