9 Unique Last-Minute Mother’s Day Gift Ideas: What to Get My Mum for Mother’s Day

Mother’s Day has literally sneaked up on me — it’s in two days, and I’m panicking.

So, I’m pulling together some last-minute, easy Mother’s Day gifts that still feel thoughtful and personal. If you’re asking yourself, ‘How do I say thank you to my mum?’ or ‘How do I surprise my mum without spending a fortune?’

— I’ve got you. Let’s make this Mother’s Day one she’ll remember, even if it’s planned at the last minute.

1. Image Transfer Onto Wood: A Unique, Handmade Gift

Got a favourite family photo or a snapshot of that one perfect day? Grab a piece of wood, print the image, and transfer it using Mod Podge, Nail Polish Remover, or Heat.

Apparently there are many methods and I’ll test the nail polish remover, since I have no laser printer and no mod podge. (Ok it failed, ups)

I think it’s personal, meaningful, and a unique keepsake she can display forever. This DIY gift is perfect for mums who say they don’t need anything but secretly love a thoughtful surprise. (Here is a quick tutorial.)

2. Handprint Cards: Sentimental and Handmade

I’m making handprint cards with my son for my mum — one from him and one from me. It’s simple, sweet, and something she can keep forever. Grab some paint, cardstock, and a marker to write a message like, ‘Thank you for always being there.’ It’s an easy, homemade gift that’s guaranteed to make her smile.

3. A Wildflower Bouquet Or Store Flowers

My mum loves wildflowers, and they’re blooming everywhere right now. Head outside, grab some fresh picks, and arrange them in a mason jar. Want to make it feel more special? Add a note that says, ‘Thank you for being you.’ What kind of flowers does your mum love? Maybe something that reminds her of her childhood or her garden?

If you are short on time you can get them in the store too. As a mum I’d be totally happy about that too <3.

4. The Royal Breakfast: How to Make Mum Feel Special

What does every mother need? Time. So, give her a moment to relax with a royal breakfast in bed.

Think buttery croissants, fresh fruit, a steaming cup of her favourite coffee, and a little handwritten note. Throw in a fancy napkin, and you’ve just made her morning feel like a royal affair. What’s your mum’s go-to breakfast? Is she a pancake queen or a savoury spread kinda gal?

5. Last-Minute Gift Basket or Box

If you’re really down to the wire, grab a pre-made gift basket or box, but don’t just go generic. Think about what would make your mum feel special. Is she a tea enthusiast? A chocolate addict? Or maybe she’s all about skincare? Tailor it to her, and it’ll feel way more thoughtful than it really is.

For the mum who has everything, focus on useful and meaningful items like a cozy blanket, a journal, or a set of luxurious teas. What would be in your mum’s ultimate gift basket or box?

I think usually mums buy us, what they would like to have.

6. A Book That Speaks to Her: Thoughtful and Personal

Books are the gifts that keep on giving. Is there a book you read recently that made you think of your mum? Maybe a feel-good romance, a gripping mystery, or something that’ll make her laugh. Ok maybe it’s just cause I love books so much, I’d totally love getting one. Here are the

Or, get a little nostalgic and grab a copy of a book she used to read to you when you were a kid. This works for mums who have it all or mums who buy whatever they want. If she’s more of a podcast listener, why not get her an audiobook instead? HERE IS A FREE AUDIBLE TRIAL AND 2 FREE EBOOKS.

7. Memory Jar: The Ultimate DIY Gift

This one’s super easy and always a tear-jerker. Grab a jar and some paper strips, then write down all the reasons you love her, the funniest memories, or quotes that remind you of her. You can even get your kids involved and make it a multi-generational gift.

This DIY gift is perfect for the mum who says she doesn’t need anything but secretly loves a heartfelt surprise. What’s one memory with your mum that makes you laugh every time?

8. A Picnic with Her Grandkid: Make It a Day to Remember

I’m organizing a last-minute picnic with my son for my mum — nothing fancy, just some homemade sandwiches, fruit, and a blanket under the trees. It’s a way to give her quality time and create some new memories.

If you’re wondering, ‘How can I make my mum feel special on Mother’s Day?’ — this is it. What would you pack for a picnic with your mum? Mine is a real German, a variety of breads and jams lol.

9. Homemade Honey: Sweet and Thoughtful

If your mum has a sweet tooth, a jar of homemade infused honey can be the perfect last-minute gift. All you need is a jar of honey and some add-ins like lavender, cinnamon sticks, or vanilla beans. (I made her some spruce tip honey – my grandmas recipe).

Let it sit overnight, and you’ve got a thoughtful, homemade gift that feels gourmet but takes minimal effort.

Add a cute label and a little spoon, and you’re all set. This is great for mums who love tea or baking, and it’s a sweet way to say ‘I love you.’

10. Spa Day at Home: Surprise Her with Relaxation

Can’t book a last-minute spa day? Bring the spa to her. Set up a mini facial station with her favourite skincare products, run a bubble bath, and throw in a new candle.

You can even make a DIY face mask with stuff from your kitchen — oatmeal and honey, anyone? Add a fluffy robe and some chill music, and you’ve just turned her bathroom into a mini spa. Perfect for the mum who needs to unwind and feel appreciated.

11. DIY Candle Jar with Dried Flowers or Stickers

If your mum loves candles, why not make her a custom candle jar? Melt some wax, add her favourite essential oil or some vanilla extract, orange peels, or pine needles, and pour it into a glass jar. Or just use a small light. You can add cute stickers around the outside to make it personal.

Tie a ribbon around the top, and you’ve just created a cozy, homemade gift she can light up whenever she wants to feel special. This is perfect for the mum who loves something handmade.