5 Ways to Make Mother's Day Special for a First-Time Mom

While the saying "a mother's job is never done" is generally true, that shouldn't be the case on Mother's Day. This loving holiday is dedicated to spoiling the matriarch of the family each May—and while the recurrent holiday is always special, there's nothing quite like her very first Mother's Day.

To help her mark this especially meaningful occasion, Assumpta Vitcu, the founder and lead planner at AVE Creations, recommends beginning with a plan. "The importance of celebrating a first-time Mom on Mother's Day cannot be over-estimated," she says. "In my experience, being intentional about your plans and tapping into and magnifying what she actually loves—not what you or the media thinks she loves—is the key to success."

No matter how you decide to celebrate, Vitcu says that keeping the new mom at the forefront of any plans will make the experience a special one. Ahead, five first Mother's Day ideas to honor year one of motherhood.

Gift her plenty of time to relax

"If the new mom loves to be pampered, why not book a spa day or hire a masseuse to spoil her in the comfort of her own home?" Vitcu suggests. For a DIY take, consider making our homemade Flower Soaks, which will give your partner, daughter, or friend a stress-free way to start the morning. (These feature dried roses, calendula, and blue cornflowers along with essential oils, Epsom salts, and pink Himalayan salts.) Intention is key when planning a day of relaxation: Vitcu recommends setting the scene by also burning scented candles and creating a soothing playlist. And, of course, make sure someone else is handling childcare so she can truly relax.

Arrange a beautiful brunch

Is Mom a foodie? If so, she'll appreciate you rounding up family and friends for a celebratory brunch. Vitcu suggests either having an intimate party with just immediate loved ones or opting for a larger fête. If you choose the latter, plan your party at least a few weeks in advance by designing and sending out invitations to loved ones to help increase the likelihood that everyone can attend. (Consider hosting this event on the Saturday before the actual holiday, so you don't cause conflicts for guests who have moms of their own to honor!) For another special touch, print menus and place cards for a polished tablescape.

Pick up a symbolic bouquet of flowers

Florals are a traditional way to let moms know how much they mean to their family each and every year. Put together a bouquet of hydrangeas or peonies in neutral hues, such as soft pink, lavender, or ivory. These are all classic options that a first-time Mom will adore. If you can find daffodils in May, however, do so, since these blooms symbolize a new journey—something a new mother is in the thick of.

Give her a custom card

"Making or buying a personalized keepsake gift, one that she can cherish for years to come, is a beautiful idea," says Vitcu. "You can engrave a frame or commission a letter to be written by a calligrapher, sharing how much you and her close family and friends love and appreciate her." Try making a custom card, like these featured above, and fill it with personal anecdotes about her first year of motherhood. Mom will look back on these priceless mementos long after her first Mother's Day.

Capture the moment

Last, but certainly not least, make sure to document the entire day's events through photography or videography. According to Victu, this is "not for the sole purpose of posting on social media, but simply for capturing memories and having fun." Using the images you take on her first Mother's Day, create a scrapbook or home video to commemorate this important milestone in her parenting journey.