LONG BEACH DAYS’ MOTHER’S DAY GIFT GUIDE: THE BEST LOCAL AND UNIQUE GIFTS FOR MOM

Mother's Day is almost here, and finding the perfect gift for Mom can be challenging. This year, Long Beach Days has put together a curated guide of unique gift ideas inspired by local Long Beach businesses. Instead of the usual flowers or chocolates, why not surprise Mom with a more one-of-a-kind gift. From cooking classes and cheese boxes to pottery workshops and personalized gifts, our guide features a range of options that are sure to create lasting memories for Mom this Mother's Day.

ADOPT A SEA OTTER WITH THE AQUARIUM OF THE PACIFIC

Surprise your loved one this Mother's Day by adopting a sea otter! Along with your adoption certificate, you'll also receive a plush animal, an otter-themed puzzle*, and specialized Mother's Day card* (*while supplies last). Plus, by supporting the aquarium’s animal adoption program, you'll help fund vital education and conservation initiatives, provide essential animal care, and support animal rehabilitation efforts. To make sure your gift arrives in time for Mother's Day, adopt by May 8th here.

A CUSTOM CHEESE AND MEAT BOARD FROM OH LA VACHE

This Mother's Day, give your Mom the gift of a customized charcuterie board from Oh La Vache. You can choose from a variety of cheeses and meats, and each board comes with seasonal accompaniments like pickled veggies, olives, and nuts. Oh La Vache also offers a Cheese of the Month Club membership, which could be a great option for a cheese-loving Mom.

A PERSONALIZED GIFT FROM THE BETTER HALF BOUTIQUE

The Better Half Boutique is your one-stop-shop for all your gifting needs. With a curated selection of home decor items, jewelry, and unique textiles, you're sure to find a gift that will make Mom feel special. For a more personal touch, The Better Half Boutique also offers engraving on items such as cutting boards and wall decor - a perfect way to make Mom feel extra special.

MOTHER’S DAY PHOTO SHOOT WITH f/8 STUDIOS

Looking for a more unique and memorable experience for Mom? f/8 studies is currently offering a fun mini photo session featuring a beautiful hanging floral display. You can bring up to five family members of the same unit (even furry babies are welcome!). During your private appointment, enjoy one set-up for just $99. But hurry - spots have been filling up and a limited number are still available. Book your appointment here with f/8 today - the perfect opportunity to create lasting memories with your loved ones this Mother’s Day.

A COOKING WORKSHOP WITH CHEF TECH COOKING SCHOOL

Chef Tech Cooking School hosts a weekly workshop every Friday evening from 6:30-9 PM featuring diverse cooking themes. The ultimate treat for any foodie Mom, these workshops provide an ideal environment for enhancing culinary skills or refining cooking techniques. With Chef Tech at the helm, everything is taken care of, leaving Mom with an easy task: showing up with a willingness to learn, cook, and enjoy the delicious results. You can view their current schedule here.

A POTTERY CLASS FROM CLAY ON FIRST

For the artistic Mom, consider gifting a pottery class at Clay on First. Their one-time classes are perfect for beginners who want to try their hand at using a pottery wheel. Each class is two hours long and includes basic instruction on wheel throwing. It's a fun and unique way to get messy and make something beautiful. Give Mom a memorable and creative experience with a pottery class at Clay on First.

A UNIQUE PLANT GIFT FROM PIPPI + LOLA

If Mom has a green thumb or loves plants, consider a gift certificate or new houseplant from Pippi + Lola. Their stunning collection of houseplants and botanical goods is carefully curated to showcase and support Women, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+ makers worldwide. Whether she's an experienced botanist or just starting out, Pippi and Lola's selection of plants and botanical products offers something for everyone.

A GIFT WITH PURPOSE FROM FAIR TRADE LONG BEACH

Give Mom a gift that gives back by choosing something special from Fair Trade Long Beach. As a coalition of activists, advocates, and ethical businesses, FTLB works to promote the availability and use of Fair Trade products in Long Beach and beyond. Their selection includes a range of handmade pieces, artful textiles, statement jewelry, tote bags, hats, and more, all ethically sourced and crafted. By choosing a gift from FTLB, you're not only gifting a beautiful present, but also supporting a local establishment committed to ethical and sustainable practices.

WINE CLUB MEMBERSHIP FROM WINE, CHEESE, ETC.

Surprise Mom with a Wine Club Membership from Wine, Cheese, Etc. this Mother's Day. Choose between red, white or mixed wine options for the membership and also enjoy a 10% discount on storewide purchases every day. Wine, Cheese, Etc. also offers a range of culinary gifts such as gift boxes, build-your-own cheese boxes, cookbooks, and unique food items, another great gift idea for the foodie Mom.