What are the origins of Mother’s Day?

In the US, Anna Jarvis, the Stylish gift ideas for Mother’s Day daughter of an American social activist, created Mother’s Day in 1907. Mother’s Day was created to honour motherhood and maternal bonds. Anna Jarvis fought to become the mother of Mother’s Day, despite having no children of her own. And, in 1914, President Woodrow Wilson declared Mother’s Day a national holiday.

Despite her fight, Anna Jarvis later regretted the creation of Mother’s Day. She had hoped Mother’s Day would be a day to honour individual mothers rather than a celebration of all mothers. Jarvis always emphasised the singular “Mother’s” rather than the plural. She even claimed copyright on the phrase “Mother’s Day”. Companies managed to get around this by using the plural “Mothers’ Day”.

Mother’s Day became more popular and commercialised over the years, something which Jarvis actively protested against. As a result, Jarvis attempted to abolish Mother’s Day as a national holiday in the States. She spent most of her inheritance money on fighting against the commercialisation of Mother’s Day. Jarvis was even arrested for protesting against businesses promoting Mother’s Day gifts.

Jarvis was not successful. Today, Mother’s Day continues to be a popular national holiday in the US and across the globe.

So, what’s the difference between Mother’s Day in the US and UK?

In the UK, Mother’s Day or Mothering Sunday is a religious celebration, dedicated to honouring the Virgin Mary. It started in the Middle Ages, a time when children often worked away from home. During this time, children returned home to visit their ‘mother church’ and spend precious time with their mothers.

Children often picked wildflowers on their journey home as a gift for their mothers. Simnel cake, a delicious dessert filled with fruit and spices, was also a popular Mother’s Day gift.

Although it has different origins, Mother’s Day in the UK has become more commercialised. By the 1950s, Mother’s Day had become more of a secular celebration, in line with the US.

Today, the traditional phrase ‘Mothering Sunday’ is often replaced with the US version ‘Mother’s Day’.

How to celebrate Mother’s Day Today:

Sweet treats and flowers continue to be popular choices as gifts for Mother’s Day, as well as perfume and personalised gifts.

But one thing is clear, it has always been the thought that counts. At Lily Blanche, we can help you find the perfect personalised gift for Mother’s Day.

Whether it is a meaningful piece of jewellery or a locket filled with her special photos, we can help you make her day even more special.

5 Meaningful Mother’s Day Gift Ideas:

Looking for the perfect Mother’s Day gift idea? Flowers and chocolates are a little cliched. This year, in particular, a gift with meaning will show how much thought you have put into the day.

Each Lily Blanche piece of jewellery has a special meaning behind it. From engravable photo lockets, sparkling earrings and heart necklaces, we’ll help you choose the perfect gift!

1. Photo Lockets

Bring happy tears with a personalised photo locket. Even when you can’t be together, you can still hold each other close. Whether it’s a photo of their furry friend, a picture of both of you together or a snap of their favourite memory, a photo locket makes the perfect meaningful Mother’s Day Gift.

2. Heart Necklace

Say it from the heart with our heart necklaces, earrings and matching bangles. Choose from silver, gold, rose gold or white gold heart-shaped jewellery.

3. Engravable Bee Locket Make it personal with our sweet engravable Bee Locket Necklace. Add a personalised engravable message for a gift to be treasured forever.

4. Bird Bangles:

Show her that you cherish her with these beautiful Bird Bangles. Our gold and silver stacking bangles feature a sweet little bird charm, symbolising freedom and adventure. Add any of her favourite charms to create a unique stack.

5. Pearl Jewellery

Treat her to a classic yet elegant pearl necklace. Pearls are a timeless piece which add class to any outfit and designed to be passed down the generations.

Canvas Print
mother’s day canvas printCreate a classic and personalized work of art with a canvas print. Mom can hang this in her favorite room and always remember the loving family that surrounds her. Consider using childhood photos or black and white prints for a timeless look.

Smartphone Case
collection of custom iphone cases with photosAdd personal flair to her iPhone case so she’ll carry her favorite people and moments around with her all day. Design a phone case just for Mom with family photos from vacations, everyday outings, or holidays.

Reusable Bags
Kitchen countertop filled with reusable grocery bags wooden cutting boards and kitchen decor displayed on the wallsGo green by gifting Mom reusable shopping bags—perfect for groceries, shopping at the farmer’s market or carrying items to work. With a personalized look, she can be reminded of your love even on the busiest of days.

Personalized Garden Stone
garden stones with decoration and personalized messageAdd a lovely touch to Mom’s vegetable or flower garden with a personalized garden stone. Include an inspirational message or quote so she thinks of you every time she sees it.