Celebrating the Women Who Inspire Us: A Mother’s Day Giveaway

Celebrating the Women Who Shape Our Lives

As International Women’s Day rolls around, quickly followed by Mother’s Day, I’ve been reflecting on the incredible women who have shaped my life. From my mother-in-law, cousins, aunties, best friends, daughters, and niece—all of them are strong, independent, funny, loving, and caring in their own unique ways. I feel so lucky to have them in my corner, and I love them all to bits.

If you’ve been a friend of Lilly & Jude for a while, you’ll know that the name of my business is deeply personal. It’s a homage to my mum, Jude, and both of my nans, who were both called Lillian. Sadly, none of them are with us anymore, and with Mother’s Day on the horizon, it’s another tough reminder of their absence.

Last Mother’s Day was the first without my mum. I won’t sugarcoat it—it was brutal.

I spent most of the day shut away in my studio, crying and sewing, only emerging to open the thoughtful gifts from my daughters, which made me cry all over again. Their love and thoughtfulness meant the world to me, as did the chocolates they gifted me (which I inhaled, naturally).

This year, though, I’ve promised myself things will be different. Instead of focusing on the loss, I want to celebrate the strong, caring, and thoughtful women in my life—the survivors, the nurturers, the single mums who rarely get the credit they deserve, and the ones who give you that much-needed kick up the arse when you need it most.

Mother’s Day is complicated for so many reasons, and one that’s close to my heart is the pain of wanting to become a mum but struggling to get there. My eldest daughter is a product of the incredible team at Midland Fertility Services, and I will forever be grateful to them for helping me become a parent after years of heartache and yearning.

I know firsthand how painful it is to want something so deeply and feel like it’s out of reach. For those of you who are navigating that journey—whether it’s through fertility treatments, adoption, or other paths—I see you. I know how overwhelming it can feel, and I’m sending you so much love and support.

A Nod to Complicated Relationships

I also want to take a moment to acknowledge those who, for whatever reason, no longer have contact with their mums or have a complicated relationship with them. Mother’s Day can stir up a lot of emotions, and it’s okay to feel conflicted. You’re not alone in those feelings, and they’re valid.

And to the incredible people who have stepped into the role of motherhood—whether it’s raising children who needed love, fostering, adopting, or simply being a nurturing figure in someone’s life—you are extraordinary. You’ve taken on one of the most important roles in the world, and your love and care make all the difference.

The Mother’s Day Giveaway!

Sadly, with the loss of my mum, I am once again unable to enjoy the privilege of spoiling her this Mother's Day. Instead of feeling down, I've decided to offer someone else the opportunity to truly pamper their mother figure with a beautiful, handcrafted bag. This bag is made from leather that was saved from going to landfill, along with a lot of love. I'm hosting a special giveaway and have set aside one of the most beautiful bags I've ever created - the Alaula Bag. I will send it to one lucky winner, and if they prefer, I can even send it directly to their mum, mother figure, or chosen recipient (UK only, unfortunately).

You can find all the details about how to enter by clicking on the image below:

ALSO... I've discounted everything in my store, so even if you don't win, you can treat yourself, your mum, nan, sister, aunt, bestie or whoever else in your life gives you the big, warm fuzzies and inspires you to be the awesome person you are today. No need for a code, I've set the store to give you 20% off automatically - PLUS - you'll get free UK shipping! Don't hang about though, these bags are limited editions of 1, as I don't make more than one of the exact same bag more than once.

For Those with Complicated Feelings on Mother’s Day

I know that for many of us, Mother’s Day can bring up complicated emotions. Whether it’s grief, longing, or something else entirely, this day can feel like a heavy weight. If you’re feeling that way, please know that you’re not alone.

To the single mums who are juggling it all on their own, I see you. You’re incredible, and your strength does not go unnoticed.

To those who are yearning to become mums, I feel your pain. I’ve been there, and I know how hard it is to hold onto hope when it feels like the world is moving on without you.

To those who are grieving the loss of a mum, a mother figure, or someone who nurtured you, I send you the warmest hug.

To those with complicated relationships, I acknowledge your feelings and your journey. It’s okay to feel conflicted, to grieve what could have been, or to find your own way to navigate this day.

And to the mums who are simply exhausted, trying to hold it all together, I hope you find a moment of rest and joy this Mother’s Day.

A Final Thought

Mother’s Day is a time to reflect, to celebrate, and to honour the women who nurture, care, and love us. Whether it’s your mum, your nan, a chosen mother figure, or even yourself, let’s take a moment to appreciate the strength, resilience, and love that women bring into the world.

This year, I’m choosing to focus on the women who inspire me, the ones who make me laugh, and the ones who’ve shaped my life in ways big and small. I hope you’ll join me in celebrating them.

And if you’re feeling up for it, why not enter the giveaway? Or treat yourself or someone special to a beautiful, handcrafted bag that’s made with love, care, and sustainability at its heart.

From my family to yours, I wish you a Mother’s Day filled with love, kindness, and maybe even a little chocolate. 💕

Until next time... Love & Leather,