This Mother’s Day, we’re skipping the mass-produced and leaning into the local - the beautifully made, the thoughtfully selected, the heart-full. Whether it’s for a mum, grandmother, mum-friend, or someone who simply deserves a little extra love right now, here’s our handpicked guide to the best Mother’s Day gifts; all lovingly crafted and curated by designers, businesses and stores in the suburbs surrounding our communities. From Carlton North to Coburg, Preston to Keilor, these are the kinds of gifts that tell a story – and support our vibrant local communities in the process.
A book for the soulful cook
Ela! Ela! by Ella Mittas – $40
From Florian Home, Carlton North
If Mum connects through food, this one’s for her. Ela! Ela! is the debut collection from pop-up chef and Melbourne writer Ella Mittas – a sensory and sentimental journey through Turkey and Greece, woven with personal essays and over 60 recipes. Rich with Ella’s own photographs and stories of heritage and belonging, this book is more than a cookbook – it’s a heartfelt invitation to slow down, reflect, and cook with intention.
For the design lover
The Design Files Magazine, Issue #2 – $25
From Happy Valley Store, Collingwood
For the mum who’s always inspired by great design, The Design Files Magazine – Issue 02 is the perfect gift. Packed with stunning home tours, gardens, and architecture projects, this issue is a visual feast. Inside, you’ll find everything from a bold, chartreuse-fronted Melbourne apartment to a charming Sydney terrace. With 192 pages of creative inspiration, it's the kind of magazine you’ll come back to time and time again.
For the movie lover
The Breakfast Club Membership – $30
From Thornbury Picture House, Thornbury
For the mum who loves a good movie night, the Breakfast Club Membership is a fantastic way to enjoy films in a cosy local spot. For just $30, members enjoy perks like a free ticket and small popcorn on sign-up, member-price tickets for 12 months, and early access to special events and previews. It’s the gift that keeps on giving, with a year of movie magic and a little extra fun!
An immersive moment of rest
Soma Bathhouse gift voucher
Essendon
Gift Mum a deep exhale. Soma Bathhouse in Essendon offers infrared saunas, massage, and mineral soaks in a beautifully designed, serene space. Their gift vouchers – valid for three years – are as thoughtful as they are practical. Choose a digital version or visit in person for a gorgeously presented hard copy.
Spa-at-home bliss
Salus Body Spa Luxuries Trio – $75
From Red Bird Gifts, Keilor
For the mum who loves her Sunday slow rituals. This trio includes a luxe hand cream, a calming cucumber & chamomile facial mask, and a bonus exfoliating mitt – all bundled up and ready to gift.
Lounge in style
Kip & Co Peach Fleur Terry Bath Robe – $159
From Not Plain Jain, Flemington
A robe that says “you deserve this.” Plush, playful and undeniably chic, this Kip & Co number is a floral hug in robe form. With its ultra-soft cotton terry and whimsical embossed print, it’s built for lazy mornings, spa nights and everything in between.
The mug that’ll make her mornings
Chips Japan Mug – Tan – $43
From Pinky’s Store, Preston
There’s something about a really good mug, the kind that feels just right in your hands. This Japanese-made beauty from Pinky’s Store is simple, tactile and perfect for her morning ritual (bonus points if you add in her favourite loose-leaf tea).
For the sweet tooth (or cake connoisseur)
Cake Tasting Box – $59
From Frank + Harri, Kew
Six decadent slices, one glorious box. Whether you’re sharing it over tea or letting Mum keep it all to herself (highly recommended), this tasting box is the ultimate way to sample Frank + Harri’s most beloved cake flavours from Ferrero Rocher to Pistachio & White Chocolate Mud Cake.
Nourishment for mind and body
Olivia Catherine Skin gift card – From $50
Eaglemont
A moment to reset, rehydrate, and reconnect. Olivia Catherine Skin in Eaglemont offers deeply nourishing skin treatments, and their gift card is more than a facial, it’s a gentle invitation to pause and prioritise wellness.
Creativity as care
Sunroom Studio gift voucher – From $50
Pascoe Vale South
For the mum who finds peace in the process. Sunroom Studio is a welcoming, inclusive creative space run by a collective of local artists, offering art classes and creative workshops designed to soothe and inspire. Whether it’s painting, drawing, or simply reconnecting with flow, a Sunroom gift voucher is an invitation to explore something new, and carve out space for self-expression and joy.
Joyful glassware, for everyday magic
Maison Balzac Pomponette Gobelets – Clear/Multi
From Better With Friends Store, Brunswick
These aren’t just tumblers – they’re tiny celebrations in glass form. Handcrafted in clear borosilicate glass and adorned with colourful floating balls, the Pomponette Gobelets from Maison Balzac are a playful nod to the bubbles in your favourite fizzy drink. Equal parts functional and whimsical, they’re perfect for the mum who finds delight in the little things and likes her sparkling water with a side of flair.
This Mother’s Day, give something meaningful and support local at the same time. At Nelson Alexander, we’re proud to be part of these vibrant communities and love seeing them thrive through the creativity and passion of our local businesses.
