Holiday Gift Guide: Mommy Musts

Our mom gift guide is here! Let Kristin Helms, founder of Tribe Magazine and author of From Boardroom to Baby: A Roadmap for Career Women Transitioning to Stay-at-Home Moms, help you pick out the perfect gift for new mothers, all your mom friends and your own mother alike!

This year we reached out to in-the-know locals, who each have expertise in different genres—from fashion and beauty to garden, design, travel and more—and asked them to share what they’re excited to give. Read on for the insiders’ perspectives on what to buy friends, family, co-workers, hostesses, and anyone else on your list, and why! 

Kristin Helms went from marketing manager to stay-at-home mom. Along the way, she founded and sold the online mom-centric Tribe Magazine (now Moms & Stories), wrote the book From Boardroom to Baby: A Roadmap for Career Women Transitioning to Stay-at-Home Moms and has contributed to The Huffington Post, Literary Mama, and more.

Check out Kristin’s picks here.

Kristin’s Gift Guide for Moms

GOLD SKINNY-BAR NECKLACE

$125, at Tiny Tags

Kristin says: “I wear my Tiny Tags’ gold bar necklace with my children’s initials on it every day. I’m currently loving circle pendant necklaces, so the Tiny Tag’s circle pendant initial necklace is on my “want” list this year. Their timeless designs can be customized with your children’s names, birthdates or whatever else is special for you to wear close to your heart.”

BOOK OF THE MONTH MEMBERSHIP

12 month membership, $149, at Book of the Month

Kristin says: “I love the idea of a book-of-the-month membership as a gift that keeps on giving throughout the year. The convenient service acts as your very own book concierge; the editors read hundreds of new titles each month and recommend their top five for members to choose from.”

We did the math, and this is a total steal on 12 hardcover books!

LAVENDER ESSENTIAL OIL CANDLE

$62, at LITE+CYCLE

Kristin says: “I adore these candles because they’re made with pure essential oils and a portion of sales go to charities that help provide light—through solar power—to communities without electricity around the world. The lavender scent is calming and helps to release tension. It’s perfect for all the busy mamas!”

WASHABLE SILK TEE SET

In black, $198, at Lunya

Kristin says: “I’ve had many friends recommend these pajamas because of their oversized casual fit and chic look and feel. Sleep is often scarce throughout motherhood, so if splurging on comfortable and luxurious PJs helps with quality of sleep, then that’s an investment I’m willing to make!”

CLEAR LARGE WINE GLASS BY ROSE ANN HALL DESIGNS

$22, at The Little Market

Kristin says: “Lately, I’ve been mildly obsessed with unique glassware, and these recycled glass goblets with hand-etched flowers and leaves are simply gorgeous for your next mom’s wine night. Each purchase from this collection supports Rose Ann Hall Designs artisans in Mexico.”

We also love that The Little Market is a nonprofit founded by women that supports and empowers artisanal women worldwide, and Rose Ann Hall Designs is a collective in Mexico that employs artisans, including many with disabilities.