Welcoming a new baby is a momentous occasion, not just for the baby but for mums too! The tradition of push presents — thoughtful gifts given to mums after childbirth — is growing in popularity, and for good reason. Whether it’s a token of appreciation or something that holds sentimental value, push presents can be a lovely way to mark this special chapter.
Looking for some inspiration? We’ve got you covered. If you’re thinking about something meaningful, jewellery could be the perfect way to celebrate the occasion. Check out some beautiful push present ideas here for those looking to combine sentiment with style.
What exactly is a Push Present?
A push present is a gift given to a mother by her partner, family, or friends to celebrate the birth of her child. While the term might be relatively new, the concept isn’t—new mums have been receiving tokens of love and appreciation for centuries. Historically, mothers in Victorian England were often given lockets or brooches engraved with the baby’s initials or birth date.
Even further back, in the 17th century, mothers in France were often gifted with silver spoons as part of the birthing tradition, symbolising wealth and good fortune for the newborn. In ancient India, mothers were traditionally given gold ornaments to mark the birth of their child, highlighting that the custom of honouring new mothers is deeply rooted in many cultures.
The modern-day term “push present” is believed to have gained traction in the US in the early 2000s. The trend has since spread worldwide, particularly in the UK, where the practice has become more popular. In fact, according to a 2019 survey by One4all, 38% of new British mothers received a push present, with jewellery being the most popular choice .
Why Push Presents?
Becoming a mother is a life-changing event, and while the focus is (rightly!) often on the baby, it’s important to remember that the mum deserves a bit of extra love too. A thoughtful push present can serve as a reminder of the bond between mother and child or simply be a way to make her feel pampered after all her hard work.
Here are some reasons why push presents have become a thoughtful tradition:
- Celebrates the mother’s journey through pregnancy and childbirth.
- Marks the special bond between mother and baby.
- Acts as a keepsake for this unforgettable life moment.
Push presents are not only a symbol of appreciation but are also becoming an integral part of maternity culture. According to a 2020 study by BabyCentre, nearly 55% of expecting mothers now expect to receive a push present , highlighting the growing popularity of this gesture.
Jewellery: A timeless gift
When it comes to timeless push presents, jewellery is always a favourite. It’s personal, wearable, and holds sentimental value that can be passed down to future generations. New mums often appreciate jewellery pieces that commemorate their baby’s birth, such as:
- A charm bracelet symbolising the arrival of the little one.
- A necklace with the baby’s birthstone or initials.
- Customised rings featuring the baby’s name or birth date.
If you’re looking for ideas, take a look at some gorgeous options available here. From classic pieces to more modern designs, there’s something for every taste.
Other thoughtful Push Present ideas
While jewellery tops the list for many, there are plenty of other great ideas for thoughtful push presents that mums will love. Whether you want something practical or a little bit luxurious, here are a few suggestions:
Personalised gifts
Personalised items are always a hit. Whether it’s a baby blanket embroidered with the baby’s name or a custom photo album capturing those first precious moments, these gifts add an extra personal touch that new mums will cherish.
Pampering packages
After months of pregnancy and the whirlwind of childbirth, many new mums appreciate some well-deserved pampering. Consider a spa day voucher, a luxury skincare set, or a subscription to a self-care box. Little acts of indulgence can go a long way to help her relax.
Practical presents
New mums have a lot on their plate, and sometimes practical gifts are the most appreciated. Think along the lines of stylish baby bags, high-quality nursing pillows, or even delivery meal services to make the first few weeks easier.
The growing trend of Push Presents
Interestingly, while push presents are more common in some parts of the world, they are gaining traction here in the UK. The trend, once seen predominantly in the US, has made its way across the pond. A 2020 poll by Netmums found that 43% of British dads said they had given their partners a push present, while 32% were planning to do so for future births .
The rise of celebrity culture has also contributed to the growing popularity of push presents. Many high-profile mums, including Beyoncé and Kate Middleton, have reportedly received extravagant gifts after childbirth, which has only added to the allure of this modern tradition .
When is the right time to give a Push Present?
There are no hard and fast rules on when to give a push present, but traditionally, it’s given after the baby is born — hence the name. Some partners choose to surprise the mum at the hospital, while others prefer to wait until they are home and settled. Whichever way you do it, the key is to make the mum feel special and appreciated.
Make it count
At the end of the day, a push present is a meaningful way to celebrate the strength, love, and effort that mums put into bringing new life into the world. Whether it’s a stunning piece of jewellery or something more practical, a well-chosen push present will show just how much she’s appreciated.
For those thinking about a beautiful and sentimental gift, explore more ideas here to find something that’s truly meaningful.
Giving a push present is a thoughtful gesture that will undoubtedly put a smile on any new mum’s face!