A Global Lifestyle wants you to put some real thought into your Mother’s Day gifts this year. That’s why we’ve brought you this creative selection of offerings that are a little more meaningful than the usual suspects. Flowers and jewelry? Those are still appropriate, of course. But let our list suggest a better way to do them.
Ever go on a trip with your Mother only to watch her lug around outdated, worn out luggage? Imagine giving your Mother the gift of fabulous quality luggage that lasts a lifetime. One of the best luggage (and designer bag) makers in the world is MCM Worldwide. Founded in Munich, Germany, MCM crafts some of the most durable and stylish luggage that any Mom would enjoy owning. MCM’s Cabin Travel Trolley conveniently fits in almost any plane’s overhead compartment, too, which means Mom won’t need to check bags ever again (if she’s a relatively light packer). We adore this smooth-rolling suitcase with several padded handles, loads of pockets, quality stitching and the MCM logo emblazoned on the exterior.
Who says fitness can’t be glamorous? Just ask Tory Burch. The Tory 
Burch for Fitbit Leather Wrap Bracelet is a stylish accessory for active, health-conscious Moms who refuse to let the lack of a gym membership be an excuse. It comes in four color combinations: Bark and Aged Gold, Black and Shiny Gold, French Grey and Tory Silver, and Light Oak and Rose Gold, and looks more like a fashion statement than a fitness statement. This piece is for Moms who put a little style in everything they do–even exercise–and who deserve a little luxury. The regular Fitbit bracelet speaks volumes about the wearer’s healthy mindset and commitment to fitness. The Tory Burch for Fitbit Leather Wrap Bracelet says the same thing–only sexier. Available at Nordstrom.
Who didn’t love matching friendship bracelets as a child? The Alex & Ani jewelry company has a Mother’s Day collection that’s sure to have you feeling nostalgic and fashionable all at once. The matching Grandmother, Mother, Daughter, etc. charm bangles are the perfect gift for that special lady in your life. The bracelets range from $28 to $78 with a wide variety of finishes, including rose gold and sterling silver. Visit AlexandAni.com to place an order.
Don’t even think about getting your Mama a nasty box of chocolates from the drug store. Show Mom you care by heading to your local artisanal chocolatier instead. She will enjoy the top notch quality and you will be supporting entrepreneurs and your local community. In L.A., John Kelly Chocolates specializes in fudge-filled gourmand treats. Our absolute favorite is the classic dark chocolate with French grey salt. The fudge center is dense and creamy while the salt crystals give it just the right salty-to-sweet taste. Or consider giving Mom a box of John Kelly’s milk or dark chocolate butterflies. There’s no sweeter way to show your appreciation of her.
What do you get when the nation’s largest flower retailer partners with the world’s largest Christian greeting card company? The perfect Mother’s Day gift for the women of faith in your life! This year, FTD and DaySpring have brought together the best of both worlds with the FTD DaySpring collection. What’s not to love about violet mokara orchids, coral roses, and lush greens? And that’s just from one of the arrangements in the FTD DaySpring floral collection. You’re surrounded by amazing women, return the favor with a plant or arrangement that will light any room and touch her soul. The faith-inspired collection features over 15 items–offering messages of love, hope, and appreciation.
Does your Mom love designer bags but would never in a million years buy one for herself? Consider MCM’s uber-popular Milla bag. Mom will think of you every time she uses this classic, luxurious, three-way satchel as it can easily go from handbag to cross-body bag to backpack (via two detachable straps) and will last for years.
If your Mom loves jewelry but you don’t want to get her the same old thing, consider something from the John Hardy Bamboo Collection. Unique gold, silver and leather pieces inspired by the strong but elegant bamboo plant, the John Hardy Bamboo Collection successfully combines nature with luxury. But there’s another reason this jewelry is special. Through John Hardy’s “wear bamboo, plant bamboo” initiative, each purchase from this collection funds the planting of bamboo seedlings in Bali. The inside of each piece is stamped with how many bamboo seedlings are sowed as a result of its purchase. Earth-friendly and stylish–not a bad combination for Mom.
After a long day of superwoman duties, a glass of 
wine (or juice) is a surefire way to kick back and relax! The Susquehanna Glass Etched Stemless Wine Glass Collection is perfect for the gift-giver on a budget (at just $14.99 a glass)! Each glass is hand-etched with a fun inscription on it like “Queen Bee,” or “Mommy’s Sippy Cup.” Don’t worry, Mom won’t have to worry about scrubbing dishes after her relaxing night as these glasses are dishwasher safe! To purchase, visit your local Bed, Bath, & Beyond!
Want to add some sparkle to your Mother’s Day brunch, but can’t spend a lot? In France, rosé wines and sparkling wines (called crémant) from the Loire Valley are just as delicious as those from Champagne and other famous French wine-making regions. However, Loire Valley Wines have the same top notch quality, but for a much lower price. For example, at just $11.99 retail, the Loire’s 2015 Bougrier Rosé d’Anjou pairs perfectly with a Mother’s Day brunch of French toast as this slightly sweet rosé finishes dry. The delightfully-packaged Deligeroy Crémant de Loire Brut Rosé Sparkling retails for just $12.99. This delightful sparkling wine has a light pink color, delicate bubbles and tastes slightly like sour candy. For more information on Loire Valley Wines, visit @LoireValleyWine on Instagram and @LoireValleyWine on Twitter.
A new spin on an old favorite. The Polaroid 
Snap is a great tech gift idea for the analog Mom trying to navigate in the digital space. The instant digital camera is super easy to use, lightweight, and fits into the perfect clutch or handbag for busy Moms on the go. With three picture modes, images are printed instantly and stored on the memory card for use later. The 10 megapixel camera and self-timer is just enough for Mom to discover the world of selfies and usies. At under $100, it’s a great no-fuss option and will have you picking up one for yourself, too. Add to your Polaroid memories. Get to snapping!
Bonus slay!
Take Mom out to eat, but not at the usual haunt. On Mother’s Day–Sunday, May 8–Fig & Olive-Melrose Place is having a prix-fixe day of delicious food, especially for Moms. Brunch features crab salad, dinner includes sea scallops, and you can enjoy Petite Burrata & Asparagus–a delicious vegetable medley with hazelnuts and herbs–for brunch and dinner. The specialty cocktail of the day will be the passionfruit-flavored Yellow Lily ($12.00). And the experience doesn’t have to be over when the meal is! The Fig & Olive Retail Collection is available in-store and online. You can find everything for your culinary pleasure from meyer lemon olive oil to the Fig & Olive cookbook, The Cuisine of the French Riviera. Call for reservations today, because Mom deserves more than flapjacks and scrambled eggs. Fig & Olive, 8490 Melrose Place, West Hollywood, CA 90069; 310.360.9100. Mother’s Day Prix-Fixe Brunch: 11:00AM – 3:00PM, $40. Mother’s Day Prix-Fixe Dinner: 5:30PM – 11:00PM, $48.
