Mother’s Day 2025: What You Need to Know to Maximize Sales

Mother’s Day is one of the most powerful retail opportunities of the year — and you don’t need to sell flowers or jewelry to take part. In 2024, Mother’s Day spending was expected to reach $33.5 billion, according to the National Retail Federation (NRF), making it one of the top three consumer spending holidays in the United States. In 2025, it's expected to grow even more, with gifting habits shifting toward personalization, inclusivity, and emotional impact.

This guide breaks down what’s happening in 2025 — including spending trends, buyer behavior, top product categories, and campaign strategies — so you can launch a collection that connects.

When Is Mother’s Day 2025?

Mother’s Day falls on the second Sunday of May, which is May 11, 2025.

Gift-buying typically begins in mid-to-late April, with peak sales occurring during the first week of May. Expect a spike in last-minute purchases in the final 3–5 days before the holiday.

Why Mother’s Day Matters So Much in the US

Mother’s Day was formalized in 1914 and has since become a deeply ingrained part of American culture. It’s a time to express gratitude for mothers and maternal figures — not just biologically, but emotionally and socially as well. That includes:

• Stepmothers and grandmothers

• Single fathers or non-binary parents

• Mother-like figures in chosen families

This emotional connection makes the holiday uniquely meaningful — and a top priority for gift-givers.

How Much Do Americans Spend on Mother’s Day?

According to the National Retail Federation:

• Americans spent an average of $254.04 per person in 2024

• Over 84% of adults planned to celebrate

• Shoppers aged 25 to 44 planned on spending the most, budgeting between $80 and $90 more on average for mom.

With such a wide reach and high average order value, Mother’s Day is one of the most inclusive and scalable gifting events of the year.

Who’s Doing the Buying?

You’ll see a range of buyers shopping for different maternal figures:

• Adult children buying for their moms or grandmothers

• Spouses or partners purchasing on behalf of young kids

• Friends and coworkers giving gifts to mother figures

• People honoring chosen family members or caretakers

Many shoppers buy for multiple recipients, which increases basket size and makes bundle offerings highly effective.

What Kinds of Gifts Are Most Popular? 

Even though many of these categories are traditional, online sellers can stand out with unique, personalized, or sentimental items that feel custom-made.

Best Print-on-Demand Products to Sell for Mother’s Day 2025

Here are product categories that consistently perform well, especially when paired with emotional messaging or customization:

Personalized Candles

These remain popular because they’re low-cost, meaningful, and easy to bundle. Add names, dates, or personal messages.

Graphic Tees

Popular themes:

• “Mommin’ Ain’t Easy”

• “Cool Mom Club”

• “Best [Job Title] Ever” for coworkers or teachers

Canvas Prints and Wall Art

Photo-based or quote-based designs are ideal for marking special moments.

Fleece Blankets

Perfect for comfort and sentimentality. Great for “To Mom, From [Kid’s Name]” designs.

Mugs & Tumblers

Combine personalization with practicality. These are among the most giftable and affordable options.

Greeting Cards

Sell as a standalone or bundle with mugs, candles, or blankets.

Campaign Tips for Sellers

• Launch in Mid-April

Start your collection early enough to catch planners, and continue promoting through the first week of May with expedited shipping.

• Offer Bundles and Upsells

Combine items (e.g. candle + card + blanket) into curated sets to make gift-giving easier and boost order value.

• Use Personalization to Win

Let customers add names, photos, or personal notes. Emotional gifts often win out over expensive ones.

• Appeal to Emotion

Use marketing that focuses on memories, connection, or appreciation. Show the product in use — not just on a white background.

• Support All Types of Moms

Inclusive campaigns resonate. Try using language like: “To every kind of mom”; “For the one who raised you”; “To the woman who always showed up”

Things to Watch Out For

• Shipping Time: Shoppers expect fast delivery, especially in the week leading up to May 11. Be clear about shipping deadlines.

• Price Expectations: Many buyers are looking for gifts under $100. Make sure you offer good options in the $25–75 range.

• Design Trends: Keep it warm, floral, heartfelt, and feminine — or minimal and witty for modern shoppers. Nostalgia also performs well.

Mother’s Day is a high-stakes, high-reward holiday. The combination of widespread participation, emotional value, and high spending power makes it one of the best seasonal sales opportunities of the year.

By offering thoughtful, well-timed, and customizable products, you can connect with buyers who want more than just a gift — they want to show love, gratitude, and care.