By Merilee Kern, ‘The Luxe List’ Executive Editor
Perhaps this Mother’s Day more than any is an important time to let the moms in your life know just how much each means to you. Of course, absolutely nothing can replace a loving hug, a compassionate touch, knowing glances and those comfortable silences—highly personal and togetherness moments that perhaps exemplify strength-of-relationship above all other. Even so, overt gestures of love and appreciation through gift-giving are always a welcome occasion. With this in mind, I’ve curated a cross-section of gift ideas suited for the travel-minded mom—from an array of tech innovations to ease and enhance various facets of life, to beauty, wellness and self-care, style and, of course, fine chocolate!
The Quartermaster Luxury Carry-on Luggage (www.EbbyRane.com)
If you’re anything like me, you travel heavy. But, we’re not alone, as throngs of women do. We over pack, making sure we’re fully prepared for any and every scenario during a trip. As such, it can take a village of suitcases to get to the final destination. But, luxury luggage purveyor Ebby Rane endeavors to change that with its Quartermaster option that any mom is sure to appreciate. This suitcase is unique in many ways, including an interior boasting a patented packing design that helps better ensure full preparedness for those itinerary intensive jaunts. Efficiently designed for all carryalls to fit together, the Quartermaster boasts 12 pieces total to ensure there’s a place for the essentials. It’s also lightweight at just seven pounds; comes with a TSA-approved lock; has four 360-degree wheels that give the case an upright posture and a gentle glide; and a sturdy telescopic handle. Beyond functionality, the luggage also exudes elegance. The Quartermaster has 10 luxurious gold-stamped Carryalls with hand-woven monkey knots and beautiful feminine ruffles; a branded dust cover for storage; and is trimmed in-and-out with vegetable-tanned fine quality leather. Also highly durable, it’s made of a 100 percent virgin polycarbonate shell that withstands those nasty bumps in the road; a leather top and side handles that are crafted and stitched to last; a water resistant zipper; and an underside handle for effortless retrieval from overhead bins. A five-year guarantee ensures she’ll enjoy the Quartermaster for years to come.
Photo Ownership/Copyright
Ebby Rane
Samsonite Mobile Solution Spinner Mobile Office (www.Shop.Samsonite.com)
Another fabulous option for those moms on-the-go is the Samsonite Mobile Solution Spinner Mobile Office. Like the name says, this is an office that’s on the move! With a little bit of everything in one bag, the Spinner Mobile Office combines practicality, style and functionality in a silhouette that’s ideal for adapting from treks to the office, through that commute and wherever she needs to be overnight. It features nylon twill fabric with vinyl trim and water-resistant coating, a retractable push button handle and front zippered pockets that are great for storing smaller items needing quick and easy access. Plus, an integrated USB Port provides power connectivity (battery not included). The Spinner Mobile Office even includes a patent-pending Wireless Charging Pocket that is designed to fit wireless batteries and phones for effortless charging on-the-run. There is also an organized front pocket with accessory slip pockets therein, pen sleeves, card slots, and a larger slip pocket that’s sized to fit most tablets up to 9.7-inches. A laptop compartment is made with dedicated, padded section of the bag that fits most laptops up to 15.6-inches; including two accessory storage pockets. There is also a dedicated compartment that maintains a separate packing area featuring cross straps to secure items and a divider to store additional travel or business items. The SmartSleeve technology fits over most upright luggage handles for easy mobility as well.
Photo Ownership/Copyright
Samsonite
Samsonite Encompass Womens Convertible Brief Backpack (www.Shop.Samsonite.com)
From the same company, and with the same ideals in mind, comes the Samsonite Encompass Womens Convertible Brief Backpack. This model takes the guesswork out of organizing and packing so mom can get on with enjoying her day. Four wearable modes provide the flexibility and convenience needed for the fast paced, modern commuter. It has four-to-one convertibility: Backpack—clip the strap to the secure D rings and adjust the fit to create the traditional backpack mode; Shoulder—unclip the strap from backpack D rings and attach the adjustable shoulder strap to comfortably carry on the shoulder; Crossbody—when packed full, adjust the shoulder strap to wear across the body for a more comfortable, secure, hands free commuting mode; Tote—remove the crossbody/shoulder strap and carry by the tote handles on your arm or on your shoulder. It also has water resistant body fabric that features a deep coating for protection against the elements. A personal organization pocket is unique to this collection as the front includes pen sleeves, and a slip pocket to hold all of her need-it-now business or personal essentials. The Brief Backpack also includes a RFID Data Vault, which is a protected pocket that will safeguard her otherwise vulnerable travel essentials from identity theft.
Photo Ownership/Copyright
Samsonite
Blisslets (www.MyBlisslets.com)
Does mom get nauseous when traveling via plane, train, boat or automobile? Here’s a sound, medicine-free solution to ease her pain. Blisslets are fashionable wristbands that provide fast, drug-free and effective nausea relief. How? Well, acupressure on the P6 (Nei-Kuan) point, located between the two central tendons below the wrist, has reportedly been used for thousands of years, by millions of people, as a natural remedy for nausea and vomiting due to motion, pregnancy and other causes. While there are competing explanations for why exactly P6 acupressure has this soothing effect, multiple randomized scientific studies controlling for the placebo effect have indeed shown that it does offer relief. So Blisslets deliver pressure to the P6 point on the wrists by means of a specially designed bead embedded in a comfortable elastic band. For each arm, it’s as simple as positioning the pressure bead on the P6 acupressure point, which is located three finger-widths below your wrist crease—right between the two tendons on the underside. Blisslets come in two basic forms: elastics or as a combo with an elastic core that snaps into a decorative leather cover. In either case, the bracelets should feel snug but comfortable. Blisslets come in pairs and mom can use them for as long as the condition causing nausea persists. Users may wear them for up to 48 continuous hours before taking a break. So help mom experience greater comfort this year while traveling or amid other nausea-inducing incidences.
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Blisslets
GermAway Handheld UVC Surface Sterilizer Wand (www.CureUV.com)
There’s perhaps no greater gift than the gift of health, and cautious moms out there will enjoy the peace-of-minded provided by the GermAwayUV Surface Sterilizer Wand. This travel-friendly handheld gadget uses natural UV-C light to sanitize and disinfect surfaces no matter she may be: at home, a hotel room, a restaurant, a doctor’s waiting room–anywhere germs are sure to lurk (which is pretty much everywhere)! This device uses the same advanced UV-C light technology that hospitals have been using to sterilize equipment for over 30 years—but now the technology is available to everyone at economical price points. This wand will actually eliminate bacteria, viruses, fungus, molds and a host of other pathogens! The Ultraviolet (UV-C) light technology is a really efficient and effective way to keep things germ free, and it’s certainly a better option than using harmful and messy chemicals to keep things sanitary. Use on linens, bathroom fixtures, airline seats and trays and nearly any other surface where germs live. It should also be mentioned that in addition to its germicidal usefulness, this UV wand also fights unwanted odors and allergens such as mold and dust mites. So, use it on those old gym sneakers, the kids’ grungy soccer bag, anything that stinks really. Its miniature size is convenient for daily life and for travel. Should this GermAway Wand be out-of-stock due to its efficacy and relatively economical price point, another handheld sterilizer solution worth considering is CureUV.com’s 18-watt UV-C Sterilizer, as it’s also a portable light-based tool that will disinfect and sterilize high traffic areas and other locations where bacteria and viruses congregate.
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CureUV.com
Litter-Robot 3 Connect (www.Litter-Robot.com)
Traveling cat ladies rejoice! While we all love our feline fur-babies, cleaning those messy and stinky litter box bins leaves much to be desired. And this task is complicated when we’re traveling for short periods and need to leave our cats at home (or when traveling for longer periods and have a pet sitter keeping tabs on Tabby). Here’s a gift idea that’ll keep on giving each and every day—even while you’re traversing the globe. It’s the Litter-Robot—the highest-rated automatic, self-cleaning litter box on the market. It uses an innovative patented “hands free” sifting system that is triggered automatically just minutes after your cat exits the unit, reducing the chance of a lingering unpleasant odor. Beyond the luxury of not having to inhale all of those nasties, Litter-Robot also saves owners time by eliminating scooping. Plus it saves money by reducing overall litter usage up to 50 percent, since it only removes the clumps from the litter. What’s also super handy is that Litter-Robot 3 Connect pairs with the Connect smartphone app to help keep track of one or more units from anywhere at any time, which provides yet more freedom from litter box duties. It also allows for remote monitoring of waste drawer levels and usage history, providing insight into the cat’s overall health, as well as providing alerts for when the waste drawer is full. Being a good cat parent has never been this easy. It’s better for mom and kitty as well. Oh happy day!
Photo Ownership/Copyright
Tristar Products, Inc.
Photo Rejuvenation Infrared LED Light Therapy: AMT GLOBAL’s ‘Orion’ and ‘Radiance’ Beauty Devices (www.AzureMedTech.com)
The Orion and Radiance Photo Rejuvenation Red and Infrared LED Light Therapy Beauty Devices by Azure Medical Technologies will help mom put her best face forward no matter where she may be. These high-tech tools use concentrated beams of red and infrared light to help remove and diminish skin blemishes, acne scars and wrinkles. Dermatologists and clinicians worldwide have used LED clinical devices for years in treating all types of facial wrinkles. But, with these, mom can experience the efficacy and convenience of this gentle and clinically proven light therapy technology in the privacy of her own home. Azure’s Radiance has a two times larger medical grade lens than Azure’s Orion, a small and even more portable version of the device, but both devices are equally powerful and both have added features such as proprietary beneficial microstructure diffusers and higher performing LED treatments. The treatment is gentle and safe for in-home, clinical-level treatments and the sleek USFDA 510k cleared devices are cordless, rechargeable, portable and simple to operate with a one button operation. Both Radiance and Orion provide true super intense red through infrared light use, with four wavelengths of red and infrared, and very even beam patterns—a MUST for quick and effective results and features the company reports as unmatched by any competitive device. Just a three-minute treatment, per three-inch-long area, five days a week for two months is recommended for optimal results.
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AMT GLOBAL
Buddha Board Mindfulness Tool (www.BuddhaBoard.com)
Discover an activity that can not only help mom maintain her sanity in a time of upheaval, but also teach the entire family how to relax silently and focus (what more could mom want for her holiday, right?). Buddha Board is one small and compact option that travels well. It’s a unique mindfulness tool that uses the act of creating as an outlet for emotions, thoughts, fears and anxieties. By putting brush to slate, stress begins to be painted away. Simply paint on the surface with water and the creation will come to life in bold design. Then, as the water slowly evaporates, the art will magically disappear leaving behind a clean slate and a clear mind, ready to create a whole new masterpiece all over again. The simplicity of the product’s design creates a quiet space for adults and kids, alike, to explore their thoughts, reconnect with their feelings and get grounded again. Buddha Board is inspired by the idea of living in the moment, wholly unplugged. It is also environmentally friendly as it only uses water—no ink, no paint, no chemicals—and it will last for years with proper care. It’s a really soothing option and a great way for mom to enjoy simple acts of creative expression.
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Buddha Board
Perfect Balance World Yoga/Fitness Apparel (www.PerfectBalance.com)
Especially during these trying times, it’s more important than ever to let mom relax when she can. And there’s nothing like a fitness-forward getaway. Life is busy and stressful enough, so here’s a way to promote moms desire for fitness and mindfulness while she travels—all while staying stylish: Perfect Balance World clothing. What makes this yoga brand unique is that its pieces have friction landmarks in the fabric. These “landmarks” help the yogi get a proper grip on the floor and, thus, better control over their own body. This enhanced grip allows yogis to keep their center of gravity resting in the ideal, balanced position, while doing it with less strain and struggle. As a result, yogis achieve better, longer poses from the added control Perfect Balance World gear proffers. One of my favorites from the collection is the Innovator Capri pants, featuring Landmark Grip that helps yogis to bend, stretch and invert beyond their traditional center of gravity. By building the balance “into” the Capris, users can hold those poses stronger, steadier and longer. Mom will love the intuitive fit that flatters the body, with a wide waistband that can be worn folded or unfolded. Made from a non-slip material, this polyester/spandex blend creates a soft, silky and stretchable feel. Another of my personal faves is the DNA Leggings, which new students and seasoned yogis alike adore. The patented Landmark Grip design is again utilized and was built with the intention of keeping you accurately positioned during your practice so you can strike that pose with confidence!
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Perfect Balance World
Ultra Hydrating Body Soufflé (www.Royal-Sutton.com)
For moms who like to keep self-care in mind (or should), Royal Sutton’s Ultra Hydrating Body Soufflé is a thoughtful gift idea. This indulgent product rejuvenates the skin from head-to-toe with luxurious moisturizing properties—an important consideration considering how dehydrating air travel can be. Infused with Thyme Extract and Vitamins A, C and E, it helps the skin flourish and shine at its most natural peak. It’s a great Mother’s Day option because a little goes a long way: users only need a small amount to achieve great results. I also love that it’s not too heavy and soaks into the skin quickly. In fact, that’s one of the main differentiators of this item and others of its type on the market, which are often overly greasy and do not absorb well. The effects of this Ultra Hydrating Body Soufflé will last all day. It’s also an effective method for rejuvenating and conditioning a dry skin condition, while helping retain moisture. This will leave the skin feeling softer, smoother and more restored. The pleasant fragrance is also soft and not overpowering.
Photo Ownership/Copyright
Royal Sutton Body & Skincare, LLC
Yesterday Wellness Broad Spectrum Hemp Balm (www.YesterdayWellness.com)
Here’s a way to help enhance mom’s relaxation and soothe her mind this Mother’s Day and beyond, courtesy of Yesterday Wellness’s Broad Spectrum Hemp Balm. This light, gel-like balm formula is designed to promote a sense of calm while leaving skin feeling soft and refreshed. What can be better during a vacation? It’s infused with lavender and eucalyptus oils, found to help with relaxation, sleeplessness and anxiety. Unlike oils, which need to be metabolized, the benefits of a balm take effect as soon as it’s absorbed into the skin. This particular U.S.-made product contains fully 1,000 milligrams of hemp extract per container and, according to the company, is independently lab-tested and verified to ensure potency, purity and quality. Broad spectrum CBD contains cannabidiol as well as over 100 other compounds found within the remarkable hemp plant; but no THC so there’s no psychogenic effect—unlike full spectrum CBD. All those incredible compounds work together synergistically to greatly enhance the potential health benefits of the plant; also known as the “Entourage Effect.” For its part, eucalyptus has been found to treat dry skin by boosting production of ceramides—a type of fatty acid responsible for retaining moisture. High in antioxidants, eucalyptus may also protect the body from free radicals and oxidative stress. This balm also contains many anti-inflammatory compounds as well as eucalyptol, which the company cites as useful for decreasing anxiety and easing congestion. Meanwhile, when lavender is applied topically, it can reportedly help ease various conditions like menstrual cramps, eczema, sunburns and acne. The scent is also believed to promote calmness and relaxation, as well as decrease stress, anxiety and sleeplessness.
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Yesterday Wellness
Level Select CBD Topicals (www.LevelSelectCBD.com)
Another gift idea utilizing the benefits of CBD for particularly active moms who love those walking tours and other travel excursions, or those with frequent soreness in general, is Level Select. Designed as high-quality personal care CBD products, the company seeks to help people maintain a healthy and active lifestyles—from smaller everyday activities and physical exercise, to competitive sports and travel. They offer a comprehensive line of performance-based CBD Sports Creams, Roll-Ons, and Oil Drops made with only the purest form of CBD oil, and without any THC (the principal psychoactive constituent of cannabis). Overall, CBD is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid found in cannabis. After tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD) is the second most abundant cannabinoid in the hemp plant and is known to have many therapeutic benefits, including anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-anxiety and seizure-suppressive properties. Level Select products are available in three levels of intensity, allowing consumers to choose the right option for their individual needs. Level 1 is best used to relax muscles and treat everyday discomfort, while Level 2 is higher in strength for a higher level of muscle soreness and relief. Level 3 provides maximum strength when it’s needed most. Level Select Sports Creams have a proprietary blend of Broad Spectrum and Nano CBD. With high-quality ingredients in a non-greasy formula, these products are soothing to the touch and are perfect for daily application. Level Select Sports Roll-ons also have a proprietary blend of Broad Spectrum and Nano CBD. With high-quality ingredients in a massaging roller ball application, they help target the areas that need it most. When it comes to CBD Oil Drops, quality and potency are key. Level Select CBD Oil Drops contain Broad Spectrum CBD that is as pure as possible with zero percent THC. CBD Oil Drops are appropriate for everyday use and come in three levels of intensity for a customizable experience.
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Level Select CBD
Dallmann Confections (www.DallmannConfections.com)
Finally, what Mother’s Day would be complete without giving mom that quintessential box of chocolates? For a true delight, check out Dallmann Confections—an Austrian-born, San Diego-based artisan chocolatier that recently launched an assortment of Chocolate Survival Gifts that’ll keep mom longing for more. These exquisite, handmade confections are made with family recipes using high-quality European chocolate. The gourmet gift boxes are designed with heartfelt messaging intended to offer comfort during these trying times. Chocolate is the way to many a woman’s heart, so company owner Isabella Knack has conceived three assorted survival kits: “Sanity Saver,” “Chocolate and Chill” and “Chocolate Makes Everything Better.” Each come with the option of nine pieces for $25, 16 pieces for $35 or 25 pieces for $45. Orders can be placed through the Dallmann Confections site and ship within just two days nationally wherever she may be (even a hotel), with select items also sold on Amazon. But don’t wait, because your perfect goodie giftable might not be there by the time you want to spoil your special gal! A Gift Box from Dallmann Fine Chocolates has the power to leave a lasting impression on her palate and in her heart, mind and soul.
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Dallmann Confections
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Merilee Kern, MBA is an internationally-regarded brand analyst, strategist and futurist who reports on noteworthy industry change makers, movers, shakers and innovators across all categories, both B2C and B2B. This includes field experts and thought leaders, brands, products, services, destinations and events. Merilee is a Member of the esteemed Forbes Business Council; Founder, Executive Editor and Producer of “The Luxe List”; and Host of the nationally-syndicated “Savvy Living” TV show, As a prolific consumer and business trends, lifestyle and leisure industry voice of authority and tastemaker, she keeps her finger on the pulse of the marketplace in search of new and innovative must-haves and exemplary experiences at all price points, from the affordable to the extreme. Her work reaches multi-millions worldwide via broadcast TV (her own shows and copious others on which she appears) as well as a myriad of print and online publications. Connect with her at www.TheLuxeList.com and www.SavvyLiving.tv / Instagram www.Instagram.com/LuxeListReports / Twitter www.Twitter.com/LuxeListReports / Facebook www.Facebook.com/LuxeListReports / LinkedIN www.LinkedIn.com/in/MerileeKern.
***Some or all of the accommodations(s), experience(s), item(s) and/or service(s) detailed above may have been provided or arranged at no cost to accommodate if this is review editorial, but all opinions expressed are entirely those of Merilee Kern and have not been influenced in any way.***