
13 Austin-Based Mother’s Day Gifts that Give Back
Out-of-the-box ideas for every maternal figure in your life
By Holly Cowart
What can I say? Moms kick ass. All things considered, there’s more reason than ever to celebrate the maternal figures in our lives this Mother’s Day. If you’re looking for thoughtful gift ideas, there are also great opportunities to uplift our talented makers by shopping local.
Austin retailers have been making way for alternative shopping methods just in time for mom’s honorary day, offering curb-side pickup and delivery options. So even if in-person parties are out of the picture this year, you can still make it memorable with a sweet surprise.
Whether utilizing a brand’s relief efforts or giving back by shopping directly, this selection of products will inspire moms of every age and every stage — all while helping our local businesses.
Austin Motel Shorty Kimono Robe, $125
austinmotelstore.com
Austin Motel has outdone itself with a set of specially-selected gifts for Mamas. While the list is worth an overall look, we’ve got our eye on the Shorty Kimono Robe, designed by Bunkhouse and custom-made in India. With gorgeous Serape-style hues and a functional length, she’ll love a look that’s both cute and cozy for any at-home task.
Houseplant Lovers Gift Box, $40
succulentnative.com
Thank Mom for years of nurture with a touch of mother nature. This pack comes with everything a plant-lover needs to relax, including a sugar scrub, candle, SRSLY Chocolate succulents and easy-care house plants, available for delivery throughout Austin. Greenery transforms any space with a refreshing pop of color, especially with all this extra time to spend inside!
Mozart’s Mother’s Day High Tea & Coffee Box, $150
mozartscoffee.com
Mozart’s Coffee Roasters is treating Austin moms to a decadent evening. This beautiful box is exploding with scrumptious goodies like scones, macarons, quiches, finger sandwiches, tarts, coffee, tea and more. Place your order now, and baskets will be ready for pick up within two days at the West Austin staple.
Kendra Scott’s Everlyne Pink Cord Friendship Bracelet, $40
kendrascott.com
There’s no better way to give back in style thanks to Kendra Scott’s Everlyne Bracelets. Easy to pair with everyday looks, the colorful braided cord features a classic KS jewel as the centerpiece. Half of the proceeds from every sale will go directly to Feeding America’s network of food banks, with one bracelet able to provide 200 meals to families and children who face hunger while schools are closed.
Die Trying Woven Cloud Throw Blanket, $75
dietryingtx.myshopify.com
Available in two colors, these eye-catching throws are a welcome addition to any couch arm, wall display or cold shoulders. Founded by Lacy Van Court, the local chain stitch brand works with a small, family-owned textile business to craft the 100 percent cotton blankets, which can also be customized with a personal message for an extra sentimental touch. And since you’re in the neighborhood, check out her colorful patches inspired by West Texas!
Citywide Sugar High Online Bake Sale, $25-$53
givebutter.com/afwa-bakesale
Austin Food & Wine Alliance is serving a tasty selection of treats from the city’s best restaurants in a no-contact bake sale. Place an order for savory and sweet selections from Juniper, Tiny Pies, Epicerie Café & Grocery, Julie Myrtille Bakery, Uncle Nicky’s and more by 5 p.m. on Wednesday, May 6. With safety precautions in place, the goods will arrive at Mom’s door by May 9 while your purchase boosts local restaurants and the AFW.
Eliana Bernard Mini Minimalist Vase + Preserved Florals, $58
elianabernard.com
Austin-based ceramic designer Eliana Bernard has collaborated with Mountain Laurel Floral to create a timeless and elegant interior touch. Lasting longer than your average bouquet, each arrangement is handpicked and preserved in Austin and includes locally sourced flora. The 4-inch vase comes in cream or terra, and will ship on May 1 so move fast! If you miss the deadline, don’t fret. Any of her stunning ceramic designs will be a hit.
Wildsam Field Guides: Texas, $20
wildsam.com
If your Mom is more of the adventurous type, get her the ultimate tool for planning future trips: Wildsam Field Guides. While the full collection highlights major cities across the country, their recent Texas release is a true love letter to the Lone Star State. Charmingly illustrated by Kelly Colchin, the travel companion takes an authentic look at must-see destinations across our vast home. If you find a few books that pique your interest, consider bundling your top three picks with a box set.
Sourced Craft Cocktail Delivery, Prices Vary
sourcedcraftcocktails.com
Cheers to Mom with a fun cocktail kit delivery! Sourced Craft Cocktails employs bartenders who have lost work due to quarantine closures, providing livable wages for safely delivering the jam-packed kit to your door. Assembled in a local commercial kitchen, each tote bag holds cups, a jigger for measuring, a bottled mix of fresh ingredients and enough booze for 12 individual drinks. Tequila-lover? Choose between three types of margaritas. Watching the self-isolation figure? Drink your veggies with Tracy’s Garden. All about the vino? There’s something for you, too! And don’t forget to tip your bartender for a job well-done.
Olivia + Ocean Mom Bod One Piece, $149
oliviaandocean.com
If you’ve got a mom with access to a body of water, surprise her with a swimsuit made by moms for moms. Specifically designed to be discreet and supportive of post-baby mama bods, the high-compression suit features a waist-tie for easy nursing, lined pockets and a chic design. With every sale, the company will donate a portion of proceeds to Water.org, helping provide water and sanitation to under-served communities.
Slow North’s Restore Care Package, $89
slownorth.com
At-home spa day anyone? You can’t really go wrong when it comes to self-care. Choose from a variety of products selected with Mom in mind. But if you can’t decide, let the pros call the shots with a thoughtfully prepared gift set. Our choice is The Restore Care Package, complete with a Slow North candle, Clear Quartz Facial Roller, Lola Jane Fizzing Bath Cube and more.
Austin Rug Co. Büyü Concert Mat, $179
austinrugco.com
Inspired by büyü, or “magic,” these vintage 1950s Turkish rugs introduce a creative element to any space. Each 2’ x 3’ mat is assembled by hand with Spanish Portofino leather straps for easy mobility. Take a moment to meditate, bring the office outdoors or add a little magic into the everyday while supporting a local maker.
Make A Scene Card, $10
makeascenecards.com
Finally, the pièce de résistance: the card. No matter the shape or size of the Mother’s Day gift, the thing that Mom will always love receiving are heartfelt words. So why not make them pop? New on the Austin circuit, Make A Scene’s cards feature dazzling 3D illustrations for all occasions worth celebrating. Our favorites include the ATX, Stork and Thinking Of You Pop Up Cards, which are now 2-for-1 with free shipping for a limited time.