Mother’s Day is that sweet time of year when we pause to celebrate the woman who somehow always knew where your other sock was, gave the best hugs, and maybe even loved you through your worst haircut phases. Whether she’s a gentle soul or a hilarious powerhouse, moms are magic—and they deserve more than just a “love you” text.
It was established by Anna Jarvis, who sought to honor her own mother. The first Mother’s Day church service was held in 1908. The day became a national holiday six years later, and it is observed on the second Sunday in May.
Many other countries also celebrate the holiday on this date, while some mark the observance at other times of the year. During the Middle Ages, the custom developed of allowing those who had moved away to visit their home parishes and their mothers on Laetare Sunday, the fourth Sunday of Lent. This became Mothering Sunday in Britain, where it continued into modern times, although it has largely been replaced by Mother’s Day.
History of the day
Jarvis was inspired to create the holiday by her mother, Ann Jarvis, who organized women’s groups to promote friendship and health. In 1868, three years after the end of the Civil War, Ann Jarvis reportedly organized a Mothers’ Friendship Day to promote reconciliation between Union and Confederate veterans. In 1876, when she was 12 years old, Anna Jarvis heard her mother pray: “I hope and pray that someone, sometime, will found a memorial mothers day commemorating her for the matchless service she renders to humanity in every field of life. She is entitled to it.”
Anna never forgot. After her mother died in 1905, Anna began a campaign for a national holiday. On May 12, 1908, the first Mother’s Day service was held in her mother’s church in Grafton, West Virginia. By 1914, President Woodrow Wilson had made it official. Today, the red or pink carnation honors living mothers, while a white one honors those who have passed. Over time, the celebration grew to include grandmothers, aunts, and other nurturing figures.
Last minute gifts
If you just realized that Mother’s Day is this Sunday and you're giftless, don't worry—we’ve rounded up 10 last-minute gifts that are thoughtful, easy to arrange, and guaranteed to earn you major brownie points.
Same-day flower delivery – Go classic. Many florists offer same-day or next-day delivery, especially if you order early in the day. Add a note that says, “Thanks for helping me bloom.”
E-gift cards with a personal message – Choose her favorite store or restaurant and write a heartfelt note. It’s not just a gift card—it’s a guilt-free treat.
Subscription boxes – Whether she loves tea, books, skincare, or snacks, you can sign her up and show her what’s coming with a digital card.
Homemade brunch or dinner – Cook her favorite meal (or order from her favorite spot) and present it like a mini celebration at home.
A personalized video message – Ask family and friends to record short clips sharing what they love about her. Edit together or send as-is—it’ll make her smile and maybe tear up.
A framed photo print – Print a special photo at a local shop or pharmacy (many offer 1-hour pickup), pop it into a pretty frame, and wrap it with love.
Digital scrapbook or slideshow – Gather photos and memories into a slideshow or digital scrapbook using free apps. Play it for her over breakfast.
Spa-at-home kit – Pick up bath salts, a face mask, and a candle at your local store and put them in a basket with a “You Deserve This” tag.
Book by her favorite author (E-Book or Local Store Pickup) – If she loves to read, download a book to her Kindle or pick one up at a nearby shop.
A handwritten letter – Simple, free, and incredibly powerful. Tell her how much she means to you. It’ll mean more than any expensive gift.
It was established by Anna Jarvis, who sought to honor her own mother. The first Mother’s Day church service was held in 1908. The day became a national holiday six years later, and it is observed on the second Sunday in May.
Many other countries also celebrate the holiday on this date, while some mark the observance at other times of the year. During the Middle Ages, the custom developed of allowing those who had moved away to visit their home parishes and their mothers on Laetare Sunday, the fourth Sunday of Lent. This became Mothering Sunday in Britain, where it continued into modern times, although it has largely been replaced by Mother’s Day.
History of the day
Jarvis was inspired to create the holiday by her mother, Ann Jarvis, who organized women’s groups to promote friendship and health. In 1868, three years after the end of the Civil War, Ann Jarvis reportedly organized a Mothers’ Friendship Day to promote reconciliation between Union and Confederate veterans. In 1876, when she was 12 years old, Anna Jarvis heard her mother pray: “I hope and pray that someone, sometime, will found a memorial mothers day commemorating her for the matchless service she renders to humanity in every field of life. She is entitled to it.”
Anna never forgot. After her mother died in 1905, Anna began a campaign for a national holiday. On May 12, 1908, the first Mother’s Day service was held in her mother’s church in Grafton, West Virginia. By 1914, President Woodrow Wilson had made it official. Today, the red or pink carnation honors living mothers, while a white one honors those who have passed. Over time, the celebration grew to include grandmothers, aunts, and other nurturing figures.
Last minute gifts
If you just realized that Mother’s Day is this Sunday and you're giftless, don't worry—we’ve rounded up 10 last-minute gifts that are thoughtful, easy to arrange, and guaranteed to earn you major brownie points.
Same-day flower delivery – Go classic. Many florists offer same-day or next-day delivery, especially if you order early in the day. Add a note that says, “Thanks for helping me bloom.”
E-gift cards with a personal message – Choose her favorite store or restaurant and write a heartfelt note. It’s not just a gift card—it’s a guilt-free treat.
Subscription boxes – Whether she loves tea, books, skincare, or snacks, you can sign her up and show her what’s coming with a digital card.
Homemade brunch or dinner – Cook her favorite meal (or order from her favorite spot) and present it like a mini celebration at home.
A personalized video message – Ask family and friends to record short clips sharing what they love about her. Edit together or send as-is—it’ll make her smile and maybe tear up.
A framed photo print – Print a special photo at a local shop or pharmacy (many offer 1-hour pickup), pop it into a pretty frame, and wrap it with love.
Digital scrapbook or slideshow – Gather photos and memories into a slideshow or digital scrapbook using free apps. Play it for her over breakfast.
Spa-at-home kit – Pick up bath salts, a face mask, and a candle at your local store and put them in a basket with a “You Deserve This” tag.
Book by her favorite author (E-Book or Local Store Pickup) – If she loves to read, download a book to her Kindle or pick one up at a nearby shop.
A handwritten letter – Simple, free, and incredibly powerful. Tell her how much she means to you. It’ll mean more than any expensive gift.
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