With Mother’s Day approaching on Sunday 15th March 2026, families across the UK are preparing gifts, cards, and celebrations. New research suggests that what mothers want most for the occasion varies significantly by generation.
A survey of UK moms conducted by online greeting card marketplace, thortful, highlights clear differences in expectations across age groups. Older mothers tend to favour sentimental gestures, while younger mothers prioritise practical help or time with family.
Nearly half (49%) of Baby Boomer mothers aged 55–64 say a sentimental gift or card tops their wish list. By contrast, one in three (33%) Gen Z moms aged 18–24 say they would most like a day off from daily responsibilities.
Among mothers aged 18–24, the most common request is a break from routine tasks. One third (33%) say they want a day free from laundry, cooking, and other everyday demands.
This group is also the most likely to prefer humour, with 21% choosing a funny gift or card, a higher share than any other generation.
A thortful spokesperson said: “If you’re celebrating a younger mum, think practical rather than pricey. Take over the childcare, handle the cooking, and let her switch off completely. In other words, skip the flowers. Start the dishwasher and maybe choose the cheeky card.”
Among mothers aged 25–34, almost two in five (38%) say spending time together as a family is their top priority.
Going out for a meal is also popular, with 27% favouring this option. Across age groups, shared meals rank highly as a way to spend time together.
The spokesperson said: “Block out proper time together and make it intentional. Whether that’s cooking a meal as a family, going for a long walk or having a movie night where no one’s distracted, being present is what counts. It’s about giving her your attention, not just a gift.”
More than a quarter (27%) of mothers aged 35–44 say they want an entire day centred around them.
Only 1% expect spending similar to birthdays or Christmas, suggesting effort matters more than cost. Many in this group are balancing work, childcare and household responsibilities.
The thortful spokesperson said: “Plan the day around her interests, not convenience. Ask what she’d genuinely enjoy and build it from there. A day where she’s the priority, and she’s not the one making the plans.”
Nearly three in 10 (29%) mothers aged roughly 45–54 say a sentimental gift or card is most important. Meanwhile, 18% say they dislike anything generic.
The spokesperson said: “For Gen X mums, it’s the message that makes the moment. Take the time to write something personal and specific. A card filled with real memories and genuine gratitude will mean far more than something expensive but impersonal.”
Almost half (49%) of mothers aged 55–64 say they want a sentimental gift or card. Flowers are also popular, with 22% expecting them. This is twice the rate reported among Millennials.
The spokesperson said: “For many mums in their late 50s and early 60s, these are gestures they’ve grown up with, and they still carry emotional weight. There’s something timeless about a heartfelt card and a beautiful bunch of spring flowers, it’s a simple way of saying ‘thank you for being my mum.’”
Among mothers aged 65 and over, expectations tend to be modest. Almost one in five (19%) say they expect nothing at all.
However, more than a third (35%) say a sentimental card matters most, while 29% prioritise spending time with family.
The spokesperson said: “Make time for a proper visit or long catch up. Even something simple like afternoon tea at home can feel incredibly meaningful when it’s shared together.”