45 Mother’s Day Messages | Coloring Pages, Cards, Activities & More

Mother’s Day is coming and if you’re looking for a touching Mother’s Day message, we’ve got you covered. From unique Mother’s Day sentiments, to gifts, to cards check out the list below.

The History of Mother’s Day

Mother’s Day was first celebrated in the United States in 1907 and became an official U.S. holiday in 1914. Ann Reeves Jarvis is credited with the early roots of Mother’s Day in the U.S. when she organized “Mothers’ Friendship Day” for mothers to gather with former soldiers of the Civil War.

Mother’s Day Proclamation

Julie Ward Howe, famous suffragette and abolitionist, also had a hand in gathering mothers to unite. She wrote the “Mother’s Day Proclamation” in 1870 to promote world peace. She campaigned for a “Mother’s Peace Day.” This was especially important for mothers of soldiers who fought on opposing sides of the U.S. Civil War and also for those in Europe who had been divided over the Franco-Prussian War.

Mother’s Day Becomes a Holiday

Finally, Ann Reeves’ daughter, Anna Jarvis, is credited with helping turn Mother’s Day into a national holiday. Anna Jarvis helped organize the first official Mother’s Day celebration in May 1907 at Andrews Methodist Episcopal Church in Grafton, West Virginia. Jarvis popularized the idea of wearing a white carnation in honor of one’s mother. Later, the white carnation was used to honor a deceased mother, while a pink or red carnation represented a living mother. 

The Second Sunday in May

In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson helped establish the holiday on the second Sunday in May. The holiday was not meant to celebrate all mothers in the entire world, but as Wilson said, the holiday is for honoring your own mother – “to the best mother in the world, your mother.” 

Marketing Mother’s Day

John Wanamaker, the department store owner, saw a great opportunity in marketing Mother’s Day as a retail event in his Philadelphia store. Mother’s Day has grown to be a $25 billion holiday in America. The average amount spent on one’s mother is about $200.

Surprisingly, Anna Jarvis spent the last several years of her life trying to put an end to this holiday because she did not like the extreme commercialization that had developed around it. But she was not successful, as Mother’s Day continues to be a large holiday, especially in the United States.

When is Mother’s Day?

Mother’s Day is celebrated annually on the second Sunday of May in the United States. 

Versions of Mother’s Day are observed throughout the world. Families in Thailand honor their mothers with a holiday in August on the birthday of the queen. In Ethiopia, families celebrate motherhood during a fall feast.

Mothering Sunday is observed in the United Kingdom, while some countries prefer to celebrate International Women’s Day instead or in conjunction with Mother’s Day. Mother’s Day has become a popular holiday in the United States, far removed from its humble beginnings. In fact, Anna Jarvis denounced the commercialization of the holiday in her lifetime. While you may still purchase flowers, cards, and candies for your mother, don’t forget about a personal touch. This is how the holiday was originally supposed to function.

What to Write in a Mother’s Day Card

The best way to show your love for your mother’s love is to make it personal. Yes, she really does want to hear from you! Let her know the best things about her and how she did a great job raising her favorite child! Seriously, find a unique way to communicate your affection to your mom this year.

But don’t stop with a card for Mother’s Day. Pair a heartfelt sentiment with a gift that you know your mom will love. Whether that is flowers, a subscription box for moms, chocolates, or handmade Mother’s Day gifts, use this holiday to show mom how much you appreciate her role in your life. Plus, if you can visit your mom in person on Mother’s Day, give her a big hug too!

What to Write to Your Mom

If you are wondering what to write in a card to mom, consider talking about her influence as a role model in your life. What aspects do you appreciate from this strong woman in your life? Talk about her role as the greatest teacher in your life.

Include your own memories of growing up with a good mother. While the hardest thing about early motherhood can be the sleepless nights, the challenges later on occur as your biggest cheerleader watches you grow and fly the nest. Encourage your mom this year to let her know that you’re a better person because of her.

Sometimes it can be hard to know how exactly to put your love and respect for your mom in writing. That’s why we’ve gathered dozens of ideas for you.

Mother’s Day Messages and Activities to Print

If you are looking for some quick and easy Mother’s Day messages, cards and activities for your kids then be sure to grab these options:

Gifts with Mother’s Day Messages

Would you like to give a gift with a Mother’s Day message? Here are a few to check out from Amazon:

Mother’s Day Messages on Gifts from Daughters – Sometimes the message needs to be more personal and come directly from a daughter. Which is the perfect one for your mom?

Mother’s Day Messages on Gifts from Son – Sons and moms can have a very different relationship from a daughter. Check out these sweet and silly gifts to see if one is perfect for your mom!

45 Mother’s Day Messages to Inspire You

You’re likely looking for the best Mother’s Day message and we think we’ve gathered quite the list! Check the links below for some unique Mother’s Day greetings to let your loving mother know that she’s a great mom.

10 Mother’s Day Puns

Does you mom like a good pun? Here’s a few to make her laugh:

1. You’re one in a melon, Mom! ????
   (Because you’re sweet, refreshing, and totally unique!)
2. I donut know what I’d do without you! ????
   (You keep life sweet and sprinkled with love.)
3. You’re tea-rific, Mom! ????
   (Let’s spill the tea: You’re the best!)
4. Thanks for always being egg-cellent! ????
   (Even when I crack up, you keep it together.)
5. You’re nacho average mom! ????
   (You’re spicy, fun, and totally awesome.)
6. You’ve got a pizza my heart! ????
   (And you didn’t even have to bribe me with dinner.)
7. Thanks for keeping your paws on me—you’re the purr-fect mom! ????
   (Even when I was a bit of a wild cat.)
8. I’m soy into you, Mom! ????
   (You make every day roll smoothly.)
9. You always make thyme for me! ????
   (You’re the herb that keeps our family garden growing.)
10. I loaf you so much! ????
    (You rise to every occasion—and you’re the best thing since sliced bread.)

10 Funny Mother’s Day Messages

Add a little humor to the holiday with a funny message to mom. From humorous reflections on motherhood to great lines for moms who enjoy a laugh, here’s a few to get you started:

1. Mom, I got all my best qualities from you… and maybe my stubbornness too. Thanks for that!
2. Behind every great kid is an even greater mom… who probably needs a nap.
3. You deserve a medal for putting up with me all these years—actually, make it a trophy. A big one.
4. Thanks for always answering my calls—even when you know I just need help finding something in the fridge.
5. Roses are red, violets are blue, I’d be a mess if it weren’t for you!
6. Happy Mother’s Day! Let’s pretend I didn’t make you crazy this year.
7. You taught me everything I know—except how to fold a fitted sheet. Still working on that.
8. I love you more than chocolate… and that’s saying a lot!
9. You’re the original superhero in sweatpants. Wonder Woman has nothing on you.
10. Mom, I turned out awesome, so you must’ve done something right. Happy Mother’s Day!

10 Heartfelt Mother’s Day Messages

Melt your mother’s heart with some of these sweet messages. Whether you’re looking for ideal messages for your mother, step-mother, or mother-in-law, then you’ll love these links for messages that let her know she’s an amazing mother. Here are a few to inspire you:

• You’ve filled my life with so much love, warmth, and comfort—I’m forever grateful to call you my mom.
• Your love is the kind that never runs out, and your hugs are the place I always feel safe.
• You’ve taught me how to be kind, strong, and compassionate—just by being you.
• Every good part of who I am started with you. Thank you for shaping my heart.
• You make every day brighter just by being in it. I love you more than words can say.
• Thank you for always showing up, cheering me on, and loving me through it all.
• Your love is the thread that holds our family together. You are truly a gift.
• Because of you, I know what unconditional love looks like. I’ll carry it with me always.
• I hope today reminds you how deeply you are loved—not just today, but every day.
• You’re more than my mom—you’re my best friend, my biggest fan, and my forever hero.

10 Famous Quotes for Mother’s Day Cards

So often a quote from another person is a wonderful addition to a card. Here are 10 quotes to choose form:

• “All that I am, or ever hope to be, I owe to my angel mother.”
  — Abraham Lincoln
• “A mother’s arms are more comforting than anyone else’s.”
  — Princess Diana
• “God could not be everywhere, and therefore he made mothers.”
  — Rudyard Kipling
• “Life began with waking up and loving my mother’s face.”
  — George Eliot
• “A mother is the one who fills your heart in the first place.”
  — Amy Tan
• “Motherhood: All love begins and ends there.”
  — Robert Browning
• “The influence of a mother in the lives of her children is beyond calculation.”
  — James E. Faust
• “There is no role in life that is more essential than that of motherhood.”
  — Elder M. Russell Ballard
• “Being a mother is learning about strengths you didn’t know you had.”
  — Linda Wooten
• “A mother is she who can take the place of all others but whose place no one else can take.”
  — Cardinal Mermillod

5 Bible Verses to add to Mother’s Day Messages

If you’re looking for some beautiful Scripture verses to include in your Mother’s Day card, then here are some lovely options for the special woman in your life.

1. Proverbs 31:28 (NIV)
   “Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her.”
   A perfect verse to express your admiration and gratitude.
2. Proverbs 31:25–26 (NIV)
   “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.”
   A verse to highlight a mom’s strength and grace.
3. Isaiah 66:13 (NIV)
   “As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you.”
   A tender reminder of your mother’s comforting love, like God’s own love as well.
4. 2 Timothy 1:5 (NIV)
   “I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice…”
   A beautiful tribute to a legacy of faith passed through generations. Perfect for grandmothers and more.
5. Proverbs 1:8–9 (NIV)
   “Do not forsake your mother’s teaching. They are a garland to grace your head and a chain to adorn your neck.”
   Honor your mom’s wisdom and lifelong influence in your life.

Happy Mother’s Day Friend Quotes

Mother’s Day is a great time to celebrate all the women in your life! If you’re sending a card to your best friend this holiday, then you’ll want some personalized quotes for that. We’ve got you covered! Have a good laugh about the rigors of motherhood with some funny quotes or be more serious with an inspiration line or two. 

• 20 Wonderful Ways to Say Happy Mother’s Day to a Friend – You can use these ideas for greeting cards, social media posts, or even a text message to your friend.

Final Thoughts

We hope you’ve found a special way to communicate what a special place a great mother holds in your heart. A mother’s love needs to be honored all year, but especially on this wonderful day. Dear mom, thank you for your unconditional love.