First Mother's Day: Combining practicality with pleasure
Your first Mother’s Day is coming up, and you’re wondering what would really make you happy? Or maybe you’re looking for the perfect gift for a new mom you know? Between symbolic gifts that never get used and impersonal baby items, it’s hard to find a present that combines sentiment and practicality.
At 23 Mai Paris, we support breastfeeding moms every day. In this article, we’ll help you make this first Mother’s Day a memorable one: gifts that truly bring joy, ideas that simplify daily life, and our tips for combining practicality with pleasure.
Discover our collection of nursing wear to find the perfect gift.
Why This First Mother's Day Is Special
A special moment in a woman's life
The first Mother's Day marks a turning point. It is the first time this new role, this new identity, is officially celebrated.
- A first milestone: you officially become a "mom" in everyone's eyes.
- Emotions are amplified: postpartum hormones intensify everything.
- When you're feeling worn out, a small gesture of kindness goes a long way.
- The need to feel like a woman, beyond the role of a mother.
- New needs: everyday life has changed completely.
What New Moms Really Want
According to what moms have shared, here’s what they appreciate most: feeling beautiful, practicality in everyday life, time for themselves, feeling understood, and a gentle touch.
And what they don’t want: gifts that are solely baby-related, items that just gather dust, extra responsibilities, judgments about their motherhood, or pressure.
Key takeaway: The perfect gift for a first Mother’s Day combines sentiment, practicality, and a thoughtful gesture for the woman she is.
Gifts that truly combine practicality with pleasure
Nursing clothes: the perfect gift
Why is nursing wear the perfect gift for her first Mother's Day?
- Great for everyday use: worn several times a week.
- They make you feel beautiful: fashion and motherhood finally come together.
- Convenient: they make every feeding easier.
- Durable: they can be used throughout the entire breastfeeding period.
- Personal: A gift for her, not for the baby.
Check out our Breastfeeding t-shirts perfect for everyday wear.
Our selection by budget
| Budget | Our suggestion | Why this choice? |
|---|---|---|
| Less than €40 | Breastfeeding t-shirt | An everyday essential, timeless |
| €40–70 | Breastfeeding dress | Stylish, practical, versatile |
| €70–100 | T-shirt and sweatshirt set | Complete look, optimal comfort |
| Over $100 | Wardrobe Set | Several matching pieces |
The most commonly offered items
- The Breastfeeding dress: elegant, one-piece, easy to wear.
- The nursing sweatshirt: cozy and perfect for lounging at home.
- The basic T-shirt: a must-have, perfect for everyday wear.
- The tank top: perfect for summer or as a base layer.
- Nursing pajamas: for a more restful night's sleep.
Discover our Breastfeeding dresses for a gift that will truly delight.
Gift sets and collections
- Pampering Gift Set (pajamas + soft socks + candle): for the tired mom who needs some pampering.
- Everyday Set (2 T-shirts + 1 tank top): for the practical mom.
- Complete set (dress + T-shirt + accessory): the perfect gift.
- Summer Set (lightweight dress + tank top): for Mother's Day in the spring.
Useful and beautiful accessories
- The nursing necklace (€25–€35): keeps baby entertained while nursing, while still serving as an elegant piece of jewelry.
- Reusable pads (€15–25): eco-friendly, cost-effective, and available in a variety of pretty designs.
- The stylish diaper bag (€50–€100): practical and stylish.
- The multifunctional shawl (€30–50): both a nursing cover and a fashion accessory.
Gifts based on the mom's personality
For moms who are still breastfeeding
Nursing clothes with discreet openings for convenience, cozy nursing pajamas for comfort, an elegant dress for style, and why not a gift certificate for a massage session to help you relax.
Discover our nursing tank tops perfect for sunny days.
For moms who are weaning
For moms who aren't breastfeeding
For moms returning to work
The intangible gifts that make all the difference
Time for herself
Moments of well-being
Experiences to share
How to Choose the Right Gift
Questions to Ask Yourself
| Question | Why it's important |
|---|---|
| Is she still breastfeeding? | Determine the type of clothing |
| What is his/her style of dress? | How to choose the right parts |
| What are his favorite colors? | To customize your selection |
| Does she need anything? | To be truly useful |
| What is my budget? | To identify the right options |
Sizes: How to Choose the Right One
- Just ask if it's for your partner or a close friend.
- Take a look at the clothes he's wearing now by discreetly checking the labels.
- Choose stretch fabrics, which are more forgiving around the waist.
- Go for loose-fitting styles—they're a safer bet.
- Keep the receipt in case you need to exchange the item.
To make the right choice, check out our article How many nursing clothes do you really need?
Mistakes to avoid
| Error | Why is this a problem? | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Give a gift just for the baby | It's not his day | Choosing a gift for HER |
| Choosing a size that's too small | Negative body image | If in doubt, go up a size |
| Donate baby supplies | Impersonal, not festive | Save that for another time |
| Forget the card | Lack of emotion | Write a few heartfelt words |
| Don't give anything | "It's just business," but it hurts | A small gesture is all it takes |
Gift ideas by budget
Less than €30
| Idea | Price | Why it's good |
|---|---|---|
| Washable nursing pads | €15–25 | Practical, eco-friendly, and featuring pretty designs |
| Scented candle + a little note | €20–€30 | A moment of relaxation |
| Good for free time | Free | Priceless for a new mom |
| Flowers + chocolates | €20–€30 | A classic, but always a favorite |
Between €30 and €60
| Idea | Price | Why it's good |
|---|---|---|
| Breastfeeding t-shirt | €35–45 | Useful for everyday life |
| Handcrafted nursing necklace | €25–€40 | Jewelry + practical function |
| Enjoy your massage | €50–60 | A moment of relaxation |
| Breastfeeding pyjamas | €45–60 | Milder nights |
Discover our Breastfeeding pyjamas for peaceful nights.
Between €60 and €100
| Idea | Price | Why it's good |
|---|---|---|
| Breastfeeding dress | €60–80 | Stylish and practical |
| Breastfeeding sweatshirt | €55–75 | Everyday Comfort |
| Gift Set: Skincare + Clothing | €70–100 | The perfect combination |
| Family photo shoot | €80–150 | Memories to Last a Lifetime |
Discover our nursing sweatshirts perfect for cozying up.
Over $100
| Idea | Price | Why it's good |
|---|---|---|
| Complete Wardrobe Set | €100–150 | Several matching pieces |
| Family Weekend | €150–300 | A memorable experience |
| Personalized keepsake jewelry | €100–€200 | Symbolic and sustainable |
| Breastfeeding dress | €150–250 | Complete breastfeeding set |
How to wrap the gift
Packaging makes all the difference
- Kraft paper + ribbon: natural and elegant.
- Gift box: premium, with a surprise element.
- Cloth bag: reusable and eco-friendly.
- Gift bag with tissue paper: festive and easy.
The little note that makes all the difference
Here are a few message ideas:
For his partner:
"On your first Mother's Day, thank you for making me the happiest dad in the world. You're amazing."
For a friend:
"Happy first Mother's Day! You're handling it like a pro, even on just three hours of sleep. This gift is for you—and you alone."
For her sister/sister-in-law:
"Seeing my sister become a mom is one of the most wonderful things. Enjoy this little gift!"
For her own mother (who is becoming a grandmother):
"Thank you for showing me how to be a good mom. Now it's my turn, and I have the best role model."
Mother's Day: Traditions to Start
Simple rituals for the first year
- Breakfast in bed: your partner takes care of everything in the morning.
- The annual photo: the same pose every year to see how things have changed.
- A letter to your child: writing down how you feel on that first day.
- A planted flower: a shrub that will grow alongside the child.
- A keepsake album: Start an album of this first year.
What really matters
Beyond the gifts, what really makes a difference is recognition (feeling seen and appreciated), rest (being able to take a break for a few hours), togetherness (spending time with family), thoughtfulness (the little everyday gestures), and being listened to (being able to talk about what you’re going through).
Frequently Asked Questions
What should you do if Mom doesn't like Mother's Day?
Respect her choice, but still offer a small, thoughtful gesture. A simple "I'm thinking of you—you're a great mom" might be enough. Some moms have personal reasons for not celebrating this holiday, but still appreciate the recognition.
Should the baby bring a gift?
It’s a lovely gesture, especially if your partner can handle it. A gift “from the baby” with a little card is often very touching for a first Mother’s Day. A handprint or footprint is a classic that never fails to please.
And if I'm the mom myself, can I get myself a gift?
Absolutely! You deserve to treat yourself to something that makes you happy. In fact, it’s highly recommended. Treating yourself to a piece of nursing wear you really love, a spa treatment, or some “me time” is a wonderful way to celebrate this milestone.
When is Mother's Day?
In France, Mother's Day is celebrated on the last Sunday in May (unless Pentecost falls on that day, in which case it is moved to the first Sunday in June). Be sure to check the exact date each year!
How can we celebrate if we're far away from Mom?
Send a package containing a practical gift (such as nursing clothing or an accessory) and a long letter. Set up a video call on the big day. Thoughtfulness matters more than being there in person.
Conclusion
This first Mother’s Day is a special occasion that deserves to be celebrated with care. By choosing a gift that combines practicality with pleasure, you’re giving much more than just a present: you’re acknowledging the unseen work of motherhood and showing that you see the woman behind the mom.
At 23 Mai Paris, we create nursing wear designed to support moms in their daily lives. Beautiful and practical pieces that let you feel like a woman while being a mother: the perfect gift for a first Mother’s Day.
Discover our collection of nursing wear and find the perfect gift for this special occasion.
If you're breastfeeding, here are some of our collections you might be interested in:
