Welcome, last minute shoppers! Quickly come this way. Maybe you’re frantically searching “presents for mom other than a robe” after seeing the SNL Christmas Morning skit or maybe you’ve been waiting for inspiration to get mom something she really wants.
Gen X moms can be a little tricky to shop for. They tend to already have what they want, so a good place to start is either with upgraded staples or indulgences. So, for the good of Gen X moms everywhere, my mom helped me put together this gift guide.
Updated 11/17/2023 in time for Black Friday Deals
.01 Hearth & Hand KitchenAid Artisan Mixer | $450
Don’t tell my mother-in-law, but all the kids chipped in to get her her first KitchenAid stand mixer! This Hearth & Home version comes in the prettiest jewel tone that will surely become the centerpiece of her kitchen. If your mom already has a KitchenAid, there are tons of customizers or decals to add new life to her favorite.
.02 Semi-Cured Gel Nail Strips | $16
Nail salons are still a risky luxury with COVID cases, so in the meantime, bring the spa to mom! These gel nail stickers come in so many colors and designs, are easy to apply, and last as long as gels (check out VanityTable, ManiMe, & Dashing Diva). I picked out a few for us to test over the holidays.
.03 Monogram Snow Globe Candle | $38
This is my favorite candle purchase of 2020. When I opened the shipping box, I could immediately smell the pine. The Paddywax Persona candles all have match striker hats to hold matches and come in the cutest gifting boxes. I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that it is much smaller than expected and the lid doesn’t stay on the candle head though.
.04 The Original Crockd Kit | $62
Last mother’s day I got my mom a beginner punch needle kit to add to her quarantine hobby rotation. She mentioned she’s always been interested in taking up pottery and then Instagram recommended this at home pottery kit. This small business includes all the tools and materials you need for two people.
.05 COSORI Pro II Air Fryer | $130
The darkhorse of quarantine purchases would have to be this air fryer. Mom is usually adamantly against kitchen gadgets but bought this on a family member’s recommendation and now can’t stop singing its praise. She got a 3QT and wishes she got this bigger size though.
.06 Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer | $299+
My mom has cycled through enough Conair dryers that it’s time to upgrade. This Dyson dryer has all the typical attachments with the added benefit of unique airflow that protects hair from heat damage. It looks like they expanded to include new colors this year too!
.07 StoryWorth Memory Book | $79
This idea is so sweet everyone is getting this next year. StoryWorth will email your giftee once a week with questions to answer. One year later, you’ll get all those stories in a beautiful keepsake book.
.08 Apple Watch Gold Milanese Loop Strap | $99
Gen X moms love customizing their tech just as much as we do. This strap elevates her Apple watch from a sporty wearable to a classic timepiece.
.09 Memory Foam Slipper | $25
Slippers! I know, I know. I said no robes. These made it in here though because my mom specifically keeps walking by these slippers and putting them back because “she doesn’t need them”. If that’s not a classic mom phrase, I don’t know what is. Grab ’em for her.
.10 LuneDeau Statement Earrings | $40
Jewelry is a classic gift, but something I would’ve never considered is how heavy statement earrings are. My mom loves to accessorize but usually hesitates because the options she’s used to drag. There are plenty of polymer clay options that can give mom the drama without the weight. I have several LuneDuea pairs and love how she mixes in pearls for a special touch.
.11 Piecework Great Shapes Puzzle | $26
This has been the year of puzzles. A ton of companies are shaking it up with modern designs that act like coffee table art in the box or in progress. My mom is a puzzle snob, so when I had a chance to see a Piecework puzzle in person I asked if I could test the pieces. They are thick and well fitted. Definitely mom approved.
.12 Casetify Custom Case | $50
Another way to help mom customize her tech. Casteify has a mind-boggling amount of designs, from dogs doing yoga to customizable glitter cases, all while providing the best protection. Yep, I even like them better than my usual Otterbox.
.13 Versed Gentle Retinol Serum | $22
My mom is quite proud that she’s gotten her friends into skincare (in fact, the mother’s day skincare basket DIY was her idea). A gentle retinol is a good place to start for the mom that’s just getting started on her skincare journey.
.14 BirdmansHome Ramen Bowls | $64
Handmade ceramic dishware is an investment. Jumpstart your mom’s new obsession or feed her collection with these gorgeous, all-purpose bowls.
.15 Bonavita Variable Temperature Electric Kettle | $119
Yes, your mom probably has an electric kettle, but does she have a temperature controlled, goose-neck kettle? This is an upgrade that is worth it if your mom is an avid coffee or tea drinker. I personally love the Bonavita’s kettles over the Fellow Stag kettles for durability and reliability.
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