🌷 The History of Mother’s Day: Honoring Moms Through the Ages

Mother’s Day, celebrated every second Sunday in May, is a time to shower moms with love, appreciation, and sometimes… slightly burnt pancakes. But long before brunch reservations and flower deliveries, this heartfelt holiday had a rich and fascinating history. Let’s take a closer look at how Mother’s Day evolved—from ancient rituals to modern activism—and how you can honor mom in a way that’s both meaningful and memorable.

🌍 Ancient Roots of Mother’s Day

The idea of honoring motherhood goes back thousands of years:

• Ancient Greeks celebrated Rhea, the mother of the gods, with springtime festivals.

• Romans honored the goddess Cybele during the festival of Hilaria.

• Early Christians created “Mothering Sunday” in Europe, a day to return to one’s “mother church”—and mom usually got a visit too.

🇺🇸 The American Origin of Mother’s Day

The modern American holiday is credited to Anna Jarvis, who was inspired by her late mother, Ann Reeves Jarvis. Ann organized Mothers’ Day Work Clubs to promote hygiene and reduce infant mortality during the Civil War era. She also cared for wounded soldiers—on both sides—with compassion and neutrality.

When Ann passed away in 1905, Anna began a campaign to establish a day to honor all mothers. After years of determined advocacy, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed Mother’s Day a national holiday in 1914.

💔 The Commercialization of Mother’s Day

Ironically, the founder of Mother’s Day would probably not have approved of that $7 greeting card. Anna Jarvis was fiercely opposed to the holiday becoming commercialized. She envisioned a day of handwritten letters, reflection, and quality time—not mass-produced cards or novelty mugs.

😅 But Let’s Be Honest…

Yes, Anna hated the commercialization. But you know who doesn’t? Your mom. She deserves something special—and while we may be biased, Deck the Door Decor gift certificates hit the sweet spot.

They’re thoughtful, customizable, and don’t involve guessing her favorite color (or pretending you remember her door size). Plus, she gets to pick out something beautiful that adds charm and personality to her home. It’s a win for both mom and your conscience—Anna Jarvis might even forgive you. 😉

🌎 Mother’s Day Around the World

Mother’s Day traditions vary across cultures:

• United Kingdom: Known as Mothering Sunday, it’s celebrated during Lent with flowers and family gatherings.

• Mexico: Always observed on May 10th with serenades and feasts.

• Japan: Children gift carnations—a symbol of a mother’s love and strength.

• Ethiopia: Families mark the Antrosht festival with singing, dancing, and shared meals.

💡 Thoughtful Ways to Celebrate

Need inspiration beyond gift cards and roses? Here are a few heartfelt ways to celebrate:

• Write her a handwritten letter expressing what she means to you

• Make a scrapbook or photo collage of favorite memories

• Plan a surprise brunch or picnic

• Gift her a custom-engraved kick plate with a personal message

🛍️ Honor Mom with Meaning

At Deck the Door Decor, we believe gifts should be as unique and special as the moms receiving them. Whether it’s a personalized kick plate or a gift card that lets her choose, you can celebrate Mother’s Day in a way that’s thoughtful, beautiful, and truly memorable.