The CC Collection: Gifts for the Mom Who Doesn't Want Anything

Some people say that being a manager is like being a parent, but for some of us, being a parent never stops even though we may be at work (thank you, inventor of  daycare apps so we can see if it was a nap day, or allow us to mentally prepare for tired littles!). 

The transition between these roles can be extremely challenging, and that is assuming you aren’t balancing both at the same time like many of us have done over the past year of quarantine. Working parents carry a tremendous mental labor load, so here are a few hacks to ease life when you are wearing many hats.

Ramona & Ruth, Daily Pause Journal

Because even in the most chaotic moments, your mental health needs to be a priority. This journal is exactly as it is named—providing a moment to pause and reset on the moments that make us happiest and most fulfilled. I personally appreciate that this journal also has a page that allows space for free writing, because sometimes it’s unloading the grocery list from our brains, trying to find words for our performance review, or a space that can get hijacked by our littles for doodling. 

Hamam Mama, Multi-Use Turkish Cover

This product cannot be recommended enough for the logistics benefits alone. A breastfeeding cover that allows for full coverage without making a sauna for you and the baby, a scarf to hide spit-up/food stains on your shirt that is easy to grab for your next Zoom, a blanket to change diapers or have impromptu picnics whenever the day allows, and a wonderful travel sweater because we forgot to take it out of our bag and airplanes are somehow always cold. 

Little Feminist, Children’s Book Subscription Box

As Little Feminist points out, only 31% of children’s books feature a female character and only 13% feature a person of color, which is simply not reflective of the world, and we know how much representation matters. Having books that are inclusive and empathetic makes it super easy to have impactful moments with our kids, and it’s delivered right to our door for ease after a long day at work! 

Coco + Kiwi, Diaper Bags

This diaper bag made me realize how badly I needed a bag designed for women that was designed by a woman (and mom!). The thoughtful details include their entire collection being stylish enough to carry to work (or out with friends, whenever that happens again), large enough for the extra outfits/snacks/toys/diapers, and so, so many pockets so you don’t have to dig for car keys while your little is crying. And when your little grows out of needing a diaper bag, the Santa Fe Travel bag is the perfect size for an overnight trip! 

The Idea Box Kids, Idea Box

Some days, we use every ounce of creativity during that meeting that could’ve been an email so when we get home, the Idea Box is a treasure chest of having fun with our family without having to design it ourselves.

With over 25 different themes, the Idea Box has a set of activity ideas for whatever best describes the season you are in with your kids - from holidays to story starters. Plus, this makes such an easy gift for first-time moms who may be learning the best rule adaptations to the floor being lava! 

ecozoi, Lunch Boxes & Storage Containers 

One of my favorite gifts to give myself as a working mom is packing my lunch at the same time I am getting my son’s meals prepared for the next day. Inevitably, the morning gets chaotic, so having something I can easily grab (even while at home) at lunchtime to re-energize is key.  Plus, their canvas bags are the perfect size for a toy bag on the go!

FitKit, On-The-Go Workout Kit

Being a working mom means being a true expert at flexibility in your schedule. But taking the time to prioritize yourself when you are still trying to figure out if naps last 40 minutes or three hours can be difficult, which is where FitKit comes in!

Without requiring huge equipment, this kit has everything you need for a fulfilling workout at home (or a hotel room, or right outside the nursery door, etc.). It's super easy to use and relocate to wherever you need to be, challenging for all levels, and one of the most convenient ways I have been able to sneak in workouts in the minutes between moving. 

Two Elephants Patisserie, Delicious Desserts & High Tea

Because some days you deserve a cake to celebrate making it through, and Two Elephants Patisserie absolutely knows how to make the best cakes!

This brand offers treats for every stage of Moms—a reward for that day you return to work, an amazing gift for the inspirational moms in your life, and an incredible High Tea spread to give your favorite women (and yourself) and share over Zoom to reconnect and gather advice.

1818 Farms, Simple Bath & Beauty

Rubbing the incredibly light Shea Creme on your belly, using it to massage pregnancy leg or foot cramps, or simply enjoying the moisturizer after a full night of sleep and a shower, these products can leave you feeling like a whole new person. 1818 Farms has simple, clean products all about celebrating you! Taking time to refresh, renew, or relax is so necessary, and these products offer it in every form—from Lavender Goat’s Milk Bath Tea or Bath Crush (an elevated bath salt) to the most nourishing lip balm and hand soap. 

MOM SQUAD, Diva Legging

Being a parent adds a new challenge to your wardrobe, as it requires clothing to quickly cover stains/marker/stickers you didn’t know were there, crawl on the floor the minute the video call is over, and go from half-asleep mornings through bed-time routines comfortably.

The Diva Leggings allow for all of this and are high quality for wearing to work. On days that feel like marathons, it’s amazing to have supportive clothes that give you one less thing to worry about.

A big thank you to the brands who provided me with samples for pictures and to further experience the products featured. If you have any favorite female founded brands or products that you think Contessas would love, please share with me or show me how you use the CC Collection products on Instagram @kerrimayper .