When choosing the perfect gift for the most important people on our list, family members — particularly a wife or mom — are usually at the top. But how can someone show appreciation for a woman who does so much throughout the year?
A 2022 American Psychological Association poll shows 43% of people are too stressed to enjoy the holidays fully. Some top reasons include holiday expenses (58%) and finding the right gift for everyone on their list (40%).
With women at the forefront of our lives and gift lists, consumers must ask: What does mom really want this year?
What Do Moms Want?
While it may seem like a complicated question, 2023 holiday data from Statista shows the answer might be more straightforward than expected.
Half of women polled said money, particularly cash, was No. 1 on their wish list, while gift cards and vouchers landed on 42% of women’s lists. Clothing and shoes (42%), cosmetics and fragrances (36%), and jewelry (24%) rounded out the top five categories.
Of course, not all moms are the same, but some widespread trends can help guide gift-giving decisions this holiday season.
Why Cash Is King
It’s no surprise cash is a popular gift option for women, particularly moms, as it comes with flexibility. Moms can spend it on whatever they truly want or need, whether a new outfit for themselves, a getaway, a massage, or even practical expenses like groceries and bills. With cash, moms have the freedom to make their own choices.
Since holiday returns are also a hassle, cash eliminates the worry of receiving a gift that may not fit or be to their liking. Rather than contribute to the chaotic post-holiday returns, which reached $171 million in 2022, giving cash as a gift can save time and stress for everyone.
Gift Cards: The Best of Both Worlds
While money is always a winner, the second-most wanted gift on women’s wish lists, gift cards, may be better for moms.
Moms tend to prioritize their families’ needs, especially babies or younger children, and cash can cover everyday items rather than stuff for mom. On the other hand, a gift card allows moms to treat themselves without feeling guilty about the cost. A gift card for their favorite clothing store, spa, or restaurant could be just what they need to indulge in a bit of self-care.
The flexibility of choice makes gift cards a great option for moms. Knowing their favorite spots gives the extra personal touch cash doesn’t always provide, making the gift even more special.
Other Thoughtful Gift Ideas
Some moms joke they want an Elf on the Shelf that cleans, a mute button for their kids, or three minutes alone in the bathroom. All jokes aside, a few moms shared thoughtful gift ideas that have the potential to make their holiday season even merrier.
When asked what she wants this year, Gracious Pantry‘s Tiffany McCauley first asks jokingly if a nap counts as a gift. However, it could be if a gift-giver offers to watch the kids as part of the gift. She then says, “My favorite gift to receive is a gift certificate for a massage. It’s me time and I can totally turn off the mental load and just melt. It makes me a better mom when I get back home. My cup has been refilled and I have more to give.”
Bella Bucchiotti of xoxoBella shares, “As a new mom, what I really want for Christmas is some quality time to recharge. A thoughtful gift like a spa day or a cozy staycation would be perfect, giving me a chance to unwind, even if just for a few hours. It would mean so much to have that time to relax and come back refreshed for my little one.”
Ultimately, the common theme among moms sharing their wishes was “me time” they often don’t get to indulge in.
Keep It Simple
Overall, moms desire gifts that offer a break from the everyday hustle and bustle, whether through self-care or quality time with loved ones. It’s also important to remember that material possessions are not always at the top of their wish list.
While cash may seem like the easy way out when it comes to gifts, it turns out it’s what they’d actually love most. Perhaps it’s important to leave them a note that the money or voucher is for them to spend on something they love and will help them de-stress. A kind note shows gift-givers understand and appreciate all the hard work and dedication of being a mom.
