The Super-Commuters’ Guide to Breastfeeding

“I’ve hit a new low,” my oldest friend Mary sent me a grim text message. “I’m pumping in the dirty ferry bathroom.”

“I’m so sorry,” I texted back from the confines of a dusty closet that I’ve self-appointed as a pump station. “I can’t even meet you for the train home, I’m going to miss it. I can’t leave this room without getting two more ounces.”

CDC data shows that more women are trying to feed their babies breast milk for up to a year. But the average commute time for the American worker keeps increasing. This means that more nursing parents than ever before are navigating super-commutes, facing a gauntlet of train delays (hello @MTA), semi-public pumping dilemmas, and dehydration desperation that obstruct the odds of breastfeeding success. I should know: I was one of them. Having been a card-carrying member of the cooler-toting mom club, I was curious about how other moms make long daily commutes work for their families. Here’s the deal on what to expect when you become a breastfeeding mama with several hours of transit time to and from work.

Be Geared Up

In terms of equipment, a long commute can mean adding an extra heap o’ stuff to the load of pumping gear you’re carting around with you. Or it could just mean you become an efficiency extraordinaire. Some parents travel with an electric pump motor, flanges and bottles to pump into, a cord to plug into the wall, and a cute little cooler, which can usually hold 16 to 20 ounces worth of plastic bottles, along with the recommended three ice packs. If you’re able to pump more than that during a workday, an easy hack is to transfer the milk you pump directly into plastic milk bags, slap on a date and approximate amount contained, make double-sure all the zips are locked, and lay those babies flat in your cooler. No second cooler necessary.

Some people feel more comfortable using a manual pump. It’s quieter and can be used in places where there’s no electrical outlet. And then there are those of us who choose to bring both a manual and electric pump in case we get stranded on, say, the Staten Island Ferry. (Not that that’s ever happened to… us.) Whatever your gear preferences, remember to pass the cost up to your health insurance provider. The Affordable Care Act has been transformative in allowing parents to get access to pumps through insurance. Sometimes you need a prescription, depending on your coverage, but you should be able to finagle an electric pump with the help of your obstetrician/midwife, using insurance to defray the cost.

Other must-haves for the pump-at-work parent: an extra shirt or a sweater in case of a boob-leak emergency, a pumping bra, nursing-friendly shirts (think: any button-down or deep v-neck shirt), antibacterial hand sanitizer for before and after pump sessions, and a traveling stash of wipes.

Be Prepared to Take Shortcuts

Of course, many of us begin our #WAHM journey with ideas about how we’ll glide through our workdays with ease and return to our infants ready to snuggle and reconnect. The reality of pumping while working sometimes involves pumping and feeding before the alarm clock rings at 6am so you can catch a train. You may also have to pump the minute you get to a stable location and be prepared to stay late at work to get some extra ounces in before you hit the road.

Rebecca Perry, a teacher from New York City, committed to making the most of her drive to work by multitasking. “I struggled with low supply, so I figured I might as well take advantage of my long commute to get what I could,” she recalls. “I was still pumping two to three times per day at work on top of it. I would often power pump, since my commute would vary between 45-60 minutes in the morning and 50-120 minutes on the way home.” Perry ended up strapping on a hands-free pumping bra and driving to and from work while her electric pump took care of the rest. Now a breastfeeding veteran with three kids, she has been able to continue giving her youngest breastmilk for over two years.

One part of pumping on the go that we don’t always think of before it needs to be sorted out is the business of cleaning pump parts. Ideally, parts would be cleaned thoroughly with baby-friendly soap after each use and kept in a sterile place when not pumping. Since this isn’t always possible, sterile microwavable pump part bags may be the next best thing. Simply pop the parts in at the end of the day before packing them up for your return trip to work in the morning. It’s never a bad idea to give nipples, bottles, etc. a thorough cleaning by hand with soap and hot water on the weekends.

Be Willing to Compromise

Elizabeth Morris Lakes went back to work after three months of breastfeeding her child at home. “My office has two lactation rooms with sinks and fridges where I would pump, and I could rearrange my schedule to pump three times a day for 20 minutes each, essentially breaking up my hour lunch break,” she shares. “[Even though] it was essentially the ideal commuter situation, it meant that I basically never had a break for myself during the workday.” Morris Lakes was already pumping full-time for medical reasons, so when she returned home, her time to reconnect with her baby was cut drastically, and she had to fit in two or three more pump sessions before her day was through.

The compromise for Morris Lakes ended up being giving her baby formula. Beyond the physical difficulties of nausea that she felt while pumping and the logistical challenges of how to pump enough during the day, the constant struggle to make breastfeeding happen was keeping her from spending meaningful time with her child when work was over. “It was a huge relief [to quit pumping]. Suddenly, I could hold and play with my baby. I felt like I had my body back.” Morris Lakes was recognizing something that many parents find to be true: Though the benefits of breastfeeding our babies up to and beyond one year are huge, having a mother whose mental faculties are taxed beyond belief simply by the physical demands of breastfeeding is not a healthy trade-off.

Making a goal to breastfeed for a year or more as the World Health Organization suggests is admirable. But if you need to supplement or quit altogether due to your work schedule, you haven’t failed as a mother. When there are train hiccups, reroutes, and sometimes a sick passenger or two in the mix, the truth is that this not something you can will to work or make happen. Determination and a supportive network can make a huge difference in whether you meet your goal or not, of course. But nursing in spite of a daunting commute is an area where stressing out will actually decrease your supply and make you less likely to meet your goal. Be kind to yourself, and by all means get thee to a lactation consultant before you commit to going the distance.

How have you managed to juggle breastfeeding with a long commute? Tell us your tips on Twitter @BritandCo.

(Photos via Getty)

We can't take all of the sweet baby news we've been hearing about! From Hilary Duff to Vanessa Hudgens, our beloved Disney stars are glowing mamas-to-be! The latest to join the list of growing families is High School Musical Alum Ashley Tisdale and her husband Christopher French! They've been a happy family of three for a while, but they're expanding with the announcement of Ashley's second pregnancy!

When did Ashley Tisdale announce her pregnancy?

Image via Frenshe

Yesterday Ashley Tisdale shared a mini carousel post on Instagram where she announced her second pregnancy in the most touching way! Pictured in a classic white button-up and slightly unzipped jeans, her cute baby bump is on full display! Her husband Christopher French and their daughter Jupiter also make a loving appearance in the post.

Has Ashley Tisdale shared her due date?

Image via Phillip Faraone/Getty Images for Anastasia Beverly Hills

Since she just shared she's expecting baby no. 2, Ashley Tisdale hasn't disclosed her due date just yet.

What have Ashley Tisdale's friends said about her second pregnancy?

Image via Michael Buckner/Getty Images For Chrysalis

Several celebrities left sweet messages on Ashley Tisdale's Instagram post. Glee star Lea Michele wrote, "So happy for your beautiful family!!! 💓💓💓" while fellow High School Musical alum Corbin Bleu wrote, "Congratulations! ❤❤."

How do fans feel about Ashley Tisdale's second pregnancy?

Image via Noam Galai/Getty Images for goodnest

Fans are also ecstatic about Ashley Tisdale's pregnancy announcement. Instagram user @jsantam_20h, "So you mean to tell me that Sharpay and Gabriella are both preggars?? 😲🙌❤" in reference to Vanessa Hudgens also being pregnant right now. We highly doubt it was planned, but the timing couldn't be more perfect!

What has Ashley Tisdale's husband Christopher French said about their expanding family?

Image via Amanda Edwards/Getty Images

Christoper French shared a heartwarming image of himself, Ashley Tisdale, and their daughter on Instagramto share his excitement about their growing family. His caption says, "Beyond grateful. Thank you my beautiful love @ashleytisdale for another baby French 💘."

Ashley wrote, "I love you!!! Juju is just too cute we had to have another!!" in the comments and we couldn't agree more! The sweetness of it all is making us have baby fever.

How old is Ashley Tisdale's first child?

Image via Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images for Feeding America and North Valley Caring Services

Speaking of Ashley Tisdale and Christopher French's daughter Jupiter, she recently turned 3 on March 23! People announced her birth in 2021 and shared that the happy couple were doing well. We can only imagine how excited she is to be a big sister.

Has Ashley Tisdale shared baby bump updates since announcing her pregnancy?

Image via Ashley Tisdale/Instagram

Ashley Tisdale posted this cute pregnancy update on Instagram yesterday and she she wore a casual outfit that we want to replicate. Although she appears to be wearing straight leg jeans, she wrote a relatable caption about them. "the only jeans that will fit me right now," it reads.

Maternity jeans do exist, but it's possible she's not interested in wearing them right now and we don't blame her!

How do you feel about Ashley Tisdale expecting baby no. 2?

Keep up with us on Facebook for more celeb news and pregnancy updates!

This post has been updated.

Header image via Amanda Edwards/Getty Images

College and high school graduations are just around the corner, and you may be wondering what to get your favorite Gen Z grads. Luckily for you, we compiled a list of 15 fabulous graduation gifts for every price range that are guaranteed to put a smile on your graduate’s face!

Set of 4 Meal Prep Containers

Who doesn’t love pretty Tupperware? Whether your 2024 grad is a gym rat or a library lover, they will definitely find a good use for these air-tight, leak-proof containers.

Benevolence LA New Beginnings Scented Soy Candle

Send them off with this sweet-scented candle that celebrates their achievements, as well as the next steps ahead of them!

A Hundred Other Girlsby Iman Hariri-Kia

This book is like a modern day Devil Wears Prada, and would make the perfect gift for any grad going into journalism, media, or PR — especially if they’re moving to a big city.

Stanley Quencher H2.0

Hydration is key for anyone, especially a new college student that's running between classes, club meetings, and friend hangs! This tumbler will also keep their liquids cold overnight so they don't have to go down the dorm hall in the middle of the night for a fresh refill.

Dagne Dover Mila Repreve® Recycled Polyester Large Toiletry Organizer Bag

If you're sending off a high school grad to communal dorms, they'll definitely benefit from having a compact toiletry bag like this one. This style is particularly nice since it's made from recycled polyester that resists water and debris.

2024 Daily Planner

Using a planner is such an underrated way to stay organized, whether it's prepping for college coursework or adulting stuff like work events, grocery shopping, and plans with friends. This all-in-one daily planner will help your grad keep their ducks in a row with fields for all of life's details.

Honeywell Mini Cool Mist Humidifier

This humidifier, made especially for small rooms and personal spaces (ahem, dorm rooms!) helps maintain humidity levels between 40-60%, which can help relieve congestion and keep the throat and nasal passages hydrated to prevent sickness. This is crucial for soon-to-be college students who may hang around a lot of different people.​

Fresh Sends Flower Bouquet

Flowers are a staple for any major life event, especially a graduation! Fresh Sends is perfect for sending beautiful bouquets for those who live far away, since they ship directly to the recipient's door.

The Beast Mini Blender

This super-effective, high-power portable blender is the perfect size for a dorm room or small apartment, plus it's very aesthetically-pleasing even if it's just sitting on the shelf. It comes equipped with a screw-on lid and straw, too, so your grad can take it on walks and in the car.

Béis The Sport Backpack

Perfect for grads on the go, this bag can hold their water bottle, phone, wallet and so much more when they're trekking across campus.

Loop Quiet Equinox Earplugs

These design-forward earplugs are multipurpose – they block out extra noise for study sessions and sleep time, or even loud parties and concerts! Your grad will appreciate that they come with an easy-to-carry case for keeping them on-hand in unforeseen, noisy situations.

Crush Your Goals Inner Truth Affirmations Deck

For an extra dose of motivation, this 40-count deck of cards will keep them going when times get tough!

Keurig K-Mini Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker

Coffee will ​always ​be a part of any new grad's life. Keep 'em caffeinated with this convenient coffee maker that's compatible with K-Cups for everyday ease.

Hoka Clifton 9 Sneakers

Hokas are undoubtedly the cool girl of running shoes, and they will definitely make your grad hit the pavement smiling, no matter if they're stepping foot on their college campus for the first time or making big moves in a new city.

Great Jones The Starting Lineup

This trio of cookware is such a stylish way to give your recipient's post-grad kitchen an upgrade. All three pieces are oven-safe and dishwasher-friendly to make cleanup a breeze.

Find all of the greatest gifts with Brit + Co!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

In honor of Suki Waterhouse and Robert Pattinson revealing the gender of their baby, we've rounded up a list of the top French baby girl names to consider naming your little belle! We know you're looking for something that's as pretty as it is unique, so we've got you covered with 15 inspirational options. From pretty French names to fun, unexpected ones, you'll love choosing a few to share with your S.O. and family. And once you've narrowed it down? Well, we're positive your little girl will have a name that matches her personality!

P.S. Looking for even more baby name options? Don't worry because we've got a couple of names that may you remind you of moments from our childhoods!

Popular French Baby Girl Names

Image via Nguyễn Quốc Thái/Pexels

  • Chloé — There's a reason why this is one of the most popular French baby girl names! It's easy for anyone to say and sounds gorgeous. We're a little biased because it's the name of our Entertainment Editor and one of our favorite designer brands!
  • Elise — Searching for the perfect middle name for your daughter? You can't go wrong with this gorgeous name.
  • Julia — Julia Roberts' talent makes her one of our favorite actresses, but it's her name that has always set her apart. Not only is it a popular choice for little girls, but it's so pretty to say!
  • Lili — If you find yourself drawn to lilies, it's probably a sign you're supposed to name your little princess Lili.
  • Adrienne — There's something about this name that always brings a smile to our faces. We can just hear your daughter's name now — Adrienne Elise!

Pretty French Baby Girl Names 

Image via J carter/Pexels

  • Cheryl — Get inspired by Stevie Wonder's song "Mon Cherie Amour" because the name Cheryl inspired by 'Cherie' or beloved. There's no doubt you'll be filled with love when you see your baby girl for the first time!
  • Éliane — If your heart swells with joy when you think of your daughter, it's possible that she lights up your life like the sun on a beautiful spring or summer day. This French baby name (which means 'sun') will fit her perfectly.
  • Charlotte — We're biased about this pretty name because we know at least one Charlotte who's had a positive impact on us! The thing that stands out about this name is that it means 'free.'
  • Désirée — Chances are, you desired to have your sweet bundle of joy. So the name Désirée is fitting!
  • Brigette — Besides being one of the prettiest French baby girl names we like, Brigette is a powerful name that means 'exalted.'

Fun French Baby Girl Names

Image via Juan Encalada/Unsplash

  • Josette — Since you're growing your family with the addition of your little girl, naming her something that means 'God will increase' just has to be on your to-do list!
  • Angelique — This French baby girl name translates to 'angelic,' and is the perfect pick for your little angel.
  • Camélia — This fun name has Latin roots, but is still one of the more popular French baby girl names out there. Derived from the a shrub that has pretty flowers, Camélia has a sweet ring to it!
  • Nadine — Nadine was one of the memorable characters from Arthur and it feels like her name was perfect for her sunny disposition — even if she was imaginary. Gift your daughter this fun name to complement what's sure to be her positive outlook on life.
  • Noel — If your due date is around Christmas, feel free to be inspired to name your daughter Noel!

What is a rare girl name?

Image via Christian Bowen/Unsplash

There are plenty of rare French baby girl names! Yvette, for instance, is a unique name that will set your baby apart from the rest. We also love other names on this list like Camélia and Éliane!

What French girl name means delicate?

Image via Atharv Nalapure/Pexels

Léa means 'delicate' in French. If you love more simple French baby girl names (or if you're super excited about Reputation (Taylor's Version)), then this is a great name for you.

Be sure to check out our list of French baby names if you need a little more Francophone inspo!

Image via Christian Bowen/Unsplash

I have such a love/hate relationship with haircuts. While I love the feeling of a fresh look as much as the next girl, I hate having to spend $100+ for a simple cut and blow dry session. During my recent trim, I talked with my hairdresser, Jack Rehak of Jack’s Hair Design in Hinsdale, Illinois, about ways to keep a haircut looking new and best practices for keeping hair healthy. Here's what he had to say!

Here's How Often You Should Cut Your Hair, According To Professionals

Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS

I’ll admit it — it had been eight months since my last haircut. My hair had lost its shape, my layers were nowhere to be found, and my ends were begging for mercy. Life got busy over the last few months and I was neglecting my haircare like never before.

My hairdresser could immediately see that I was beyond due for a cut and said I needed to get more taken off than I was hoping. I was definitely disappointed — I'd been working on growing out my hair for a while now, and it just felt like my hard work had completely gone to waste. He explained that getting consistent haircuts is the key to growing out healthy and strong hair, rather than letting it grow and grow until it eventually breaks. So let's dig into the top three things you can do to avoid this scenario!

1. Just Get The Dang Haircut

Photo by RDNE Stock project/PEXELS

Also avoiding a haircut like I was? You might want to schedule one at your nearest salon. Like my stylist said, when you wait too long between trims like I did, you risk your hair becoming heavy, dull, and lifeless. When the hair is dry or even dead, it’s nearly impossible for it to hold a curl or style, essentially collapsing on you and taking on more and more heat damage all the while. I know the pain of spending time on a blowout only for it to fall minutes later — it’s the worst.

According to Jack, getting a haircut every 10-12 weeks is the best time frame or your ends will pay the price. Between blow-drying, curling, straightening, sun, and weather, our ends get dry and start to break without the proper care. Getting consistent haircuts allows hair to bounce back, shine, and perform the way we want in a healthy way.

2. Leave-In Conditioners Are Your Friend

Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS

His top piece of advice to keep your hair looking and feeling hydrated between trims? Invest in conditioning treatments. Jack swears by the Olaplex conditioning system, specifically the No 3 Hair Perfector. Made with patented OLAPLEX Bond Building Technology™, this conditioning treatment repairs and prevents damage in as little as three minutes. No 3 promises to reduce breakage and visibly strengthen hair, so it’s the perfect assistance to keep ends fresh between cuts. Another conditioning treatments I’ve used and loved for years is the Moroccanoil Intense Hydrating Mask, which is designed to restore moisture, elasticity, and shine to dry hair.

3. Switch Up Your Shampoos

Photo by Karolina Grabowska/PEXELS

Switching shampoos frequently is a pretty hot tip that I honestly hadn't thought of. Our hair gets used to the same products and grows tired of them, resulting in lackluster locks. Jack’s advice is to switch brands after finishing every bottle of shampoo to bring life back to your hair. Have two brands that you’re loyal to? Even switching back and forth between them after every bottle should make a big difference in your hair. I’m a huge fan of the R+Co Dallas Biotin Thickening Shampoo, which makes my hair look thick and full, as well as the Moroccanoil Hydrating Shampoo, which is so hydrating and gives so much shine.

Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS

In the end, navigating your back-and-forth relationship with haircuts often feels like a rollercoaster ride between wanting that fresh look and cringing at the receipt. Luckily, by using conditioning treatments and switching up your products,, you can keep your locks healthy, shiny, and full of life between trims. But take a newly learned lesson out of my book: don't let your ends pay the price for procrastination and just book the haircut.

If you need some more hair inspo and advice, be sure to sign up for our weekly email newsletter!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Header image via Nataliya Vaitkevich/PEXELS

With Mother's Day around the corner, it's time to celebrate moms of all kinds, and step moms deserve some special recognition, too! If you're grappling with finding the perfect gift that expresses your love and gratitude for your step mom, these 20 gifts are the way to go. This curated list of thoughtful step mom gifts for Mother's Day will get you going on a gifting kick and make any step mom's heart swell with joy and appreciation. 💓

Rinna Beauty Larger Than Life Lip Plumping Oil

The glossiness of this lip oil alone will feel like a total gift! One swipe using the soft, sizable wand delivers a sheer tint of color, all while encouraging plumpness and moisture with its peptide formulation.

The Larger Than Life Lip Plumping Oil from Rinna Beauty comes in 5 other shades for $24 on Amazon.

Anthropologie Faye Planter

For the step mom with an undeniable green thumb, this decorative purple planter from Anthropologie makes repotting process super fun! Dotted in adorable outdoor creature and plant motifs, the pot is not only practical, but looks good, too. It measures about 8 inches in diameter to fit a variety of small house plants.

The Faye Planter is currently on sale for $31 (was $44) for a limited time.

Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Cotton Checkered Throw

She's gonna want to live in this cozy throw blanket 24/7. It's crafted from a blend of Barefoot Dreams' CozyChic material and a light cotton for added breathability. The light, neutral checkered pattern makes it the perfect match for any space!

This stylish throw, made to last a lifetime, goes for $148 from Barefoot Dreams.

DedCool Room & Linen Spray

Think of this spray as an instant refresh for any bedroom, bathroom, or living room, supplying a saturated scent of bergamot, vanilla, and amber. It's also compatible to spritz on sheets, blankets, and pillows to create a soothing atmosphere every time your step mom comes home!

The DedCool Room & Linen Spray comes in two other scents for $40.

Compartés Mother's Day Chocolate Flowers 20-Piece Truffle Gift Box

When all your other gift ideas fail, there's nothing wrong with chocolate! This truffle box is perfectly elevated to give as a standalone gift – it's impressively decorated and seamlessly packaged for a memorable Mother's Day treat. Some of the spring-inspired flavors included are: raspberry rose, lavender, poppy seed, and passionfruit.

The Mother's Day Chocolate Flowers gift box is $60 and comes with 20 gourmet truffles.

Fig.1 Ceramide Moisturizer

This moisturizer delivers 24-hour hydration with a dense formula of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalane, and glycerin. It has a lightweight yet creamy feel, perfect for slathering on under SPF and makeup. Your step mom's skin will absolutely soak this clinically-proven cream up, and she'll be feeling like a new woman every single time she puts it on!

The Fig.1 Ceramide Moisturizer goes for $32 and is also refillable once it's fully used up.

Little Secret Round Sunglasses

Keep her lookin' so cool with a pair of trendy sunnies! This timeless style from Free People channels the 90's and makes for chic everyday eyewear with any outfit.

The Little Secret Round Sunglasses are shoppable in 5 other colors for $30.

The Pioneer Woman 3-Piece Floral Check Ceramic Lidded Bowl Set

Your step mom's serving, baking, and cooking projects just got such a stylish upgrade! This trio of checkered ceramic bowls designed by The Pioneer Woman make every dish look stunning, plus each one comes equipped with a decorative wooden lid for convenient storage.

This 3-piece bowl set goes for $33 at Walmart.

Sand + Fog Pistachio Dream Eau De Parfum Oil

This perfume oil can be used sparingly – meaning it'll last a long time – and delivers delicious notes of pistachio, vanilla, brown sugar, and cream to make step mom smell like a total treat. She won't want to go a day without putting some on!

This perfume is $13 at Marshall's.

Versed Total Package SPF 30 Body Lotion

This body lotion is really a 2-in-1 deal: hydrating and protective against the sun. It's packed with SPF 30 to give the skin a light shield against harmful UV rays, all while replenishing moisture with a delightfully-smelling mix of cupuaçu butter and grapeseed oil. It's not sticky or oily at all!

The Versed Total Package body lotion is $20 at Target.

Maeve Buckle Slide Sandals

These trendy slip-on sandals from Maeve are the epitome of cool girl style for summertime. Your step mom will be stepping out looking so good with these as a gift! The upper is made from durable leather, while the sole is a comfortable rubber material to withstand walking.

The Maeve Buckle Slide Sandals are shoppable in 4 other colors and are on sale for $104 (was $130) for a limited time.

Chamberlain Coffee Strawberry Matcha Latte Mix

Switch up her morning routine with this deliciously sweet matcha mix from Chamberlain Coffee! It's earthy, fruity, and made with oat milk for otherworldly creaminess. All it requires is some hot water, a good froth, and from there, your step mom can customize her sip with more milk or creamer.

This drink mix goes for $19 at Target.

L.L. Bean Open-Top Boat and Tote

This classic tote bag from L.L. Bean is the perfect vehicle for carrying work essentials, groceries, clothing, and more! It can be ordered in small, medium, large, or extra-large sizes, with the option for short or long straps.

This bag comes in 11 other colors. The small size is $30 and the extra-large is $45.

Ban.do Oven Mitt Pot Holder Set

For the step mom that loves all things colorful, this oven mitt + pot holder set will bring some joy into her kitchen set-up. Both are crafted from cotton with quilted stitching and feature small loops for easy hanging.

The duo is shoppable for $30 from Ban.do.

Auburn Home 3-Piece Glass Taper Candle Holders

These funky candle holders can go together as a set, or spread out around the house for a unique touch. Bundle them with some taper candles to complete the gift!

This colorful trio goes for $25 at Marshall's.

Verloop Raffia Phone Sling

Any on-the-go step mom will appreciate this convenient phone sling for its carrying capabilities, but it's also supremely stylish! The bright colorway is summertime's perfect match, so she can take it along for vacations and outdoor outings alike. The thin shoulder strap is adjustable in length so she can find the best fit for her needs.

The Verloop Raffia Phone Sling is shoppable in three other colors for $38.

Osea Bestsellers Bodycare Set

Gift sets are always a good bet if you're stuck on what to get your step mom for Mother's Day. This luxe 4-piece set from Osea comes complete with body butter, body oil, body balm, and body scrub (all inside a cute zip bag) so she can treat herself to a full-on spa day right at home!

The Osea Bestsellers Bodycare Set is $52 (a $78 value).

UrbanStems The Parade Bouquet

Flowers are welcome any time of year, but a gorgeous bouquet like this one is so fitting for Mother's Day. With UrbanStems, you can select a specific delivery date, and your step mom will receive a fresh grouping, ready to display at home!

The Parade Bouquet is $60, with the option to add a vase for $15+.

Material Kitchen The Cloud Pitcher

Whether it's used for a batched cocktail or a big serving of iced coffee, this stylish glass pitcher from Material Kitchen is a statement piece to be reckoned with. The glass is surprisingly light for transport, and it's dishwasher-safe for added convenience after the fact!

The Cloud Pitcher comes in three other colors for $95.

Ban.do Meal Planner

This meal planner pad is *the* way to keep track of what she'll make and when she's gonna eat it. It has three lines for each day of the week, plus a roomy list for ingredients she may be missing.

This meal planner is $15 from Ban.do and has 50 sheets.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

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