Mother’s Day is coming up fast—May 9th to be exact. If you are stressing over what to get Mom this year, have no fear. We’ve compiled a list of 20 local Evanston businesses that you can support to get a unique gift for that special mother in your life.
Supporting local Evanston outfits is important because local businesses are the backbone of our local economy, much like how Mom is the backbone of the family, and they deserve just as much respect and appreciation as we give our matriarchs each May.
So whether you are looking for flowers, DIY classes, spa treatments, jewelry, food and wine, or more, there is bound to be something to suit just about any mother’s taste and your budget!
Spoonfoolery
Looking for a show-stopping gift that the mother in your life will talk about for years? Well, look no further than the exquisite Daffodil Mother’s Day Cake available from Spoonfoolery. This beautiful cake has a lemon curd filling and is topped with a delectable vanilla buttercream frosting. This is one bouquet the whole family will enjoy, at least until it gets eaten!
(847) 859-2719
2113 Greenleaf St, #4, Evanston, IL 60202
Elite Esthetic Center
Few things leave skin feeling smoother, more hydrated, and healthier looking than a quality facial. So if you’re looking to spoil your mom this Mother’s Day, be sure to reserve a treatment for her at Elite Aesthetics Center. They offer a variety of services including facials for redness relief and rejuvenating facials designed to slow the skin’s aging process. They also are offering a special discount on oxygen infusion facials. If you are unsure what service is right for your mom, gift cards are also available.
(773) 526-0979
1041 Chicago Avenue, Evanston, IL 60202
Noir d’Ebene
Let’s be honest; all your mom truly wants this Mother’s Day is some chocolate. As luck would have it, one of the best artisanal pastry kitchens and chocolatiers in the world happens to be located right here in Evanston. This means you can surprise your mom with whatever she truly desires, whether it be decedent chocolates or the familiar brownies, cookies, and other baked goods on offer. The best part is Noire d’Ebene uses only natural, fair-trade ingredients and handcrafts all of their amazing edible gifts, so you can feel guilt-free about feeding your chocolate addiction. There are even vegan options that are available for the most discerning moms.
(847) 361-1891
1309 Chicago Avenue, Evanston, IL 60202
Rock Star Nails and Spa
Offering more than just a “rock star” experience, this local nail and spa boutique is one of the most ritzy spas in Evanston, yet their menu of services reveals everything to be reasonably priced, which means you can spoil Mom without breaking the bank. Moms will appreciate the full spectrum of nail, massage, and waxing services on offer. One highlight is the Deluxe pedicure treatment which includes all nail work, a paraffin and hot stone massage, hydrating mask, and OPI lotion.
(847) 563-8799
635 Chicago Avenue, Ste 2, Evanston, IL 60202
Accents Plus
Anyone familiar with downtown Evanston shopping probably already knows of Accents Plus. This boutique clothing store has been serving the community for over 25 years and has been the go-to for chic moms looking for special dresses and jewelry since its founding. Their collection is full of cute skirts, jackets, sweaters, and of course other accents that will help tie any outfit together.
(847) 864-0420
601 Davis Street, Evanston, IL 60201
Eden Agora Day Spa
With an allusion to the mythical garden of Eden in its name, Eden Agora Day Spa has a lot to live up to, and thankfully the spa does offer a true “paradise” experience. This full-service day spa is happy to offer up truly luxurious treatments that any mom will enjoy, including nail services, hair removal, massages and spa combos. Patrons may also choose between a variety of full body treatments that include traditional Chinese herb treatments, dry brushing, or a honey detox.
(847) 869-8709
501 Main Street, Evanston, IL 60202
Stella
Stella is a boutique in Evanston that is known as much for its unique and funky items for sale as it is for the fun-filled experience of perusing their collection. Stella is a great place to pick up gifts for the home, clothing, jewelry, and other accessories. The budget conscious will want to check out the boutique’s sale section, which is constantly being refreshed with new merchandise.
(847) 864-5565
2116 Central Street, Evanston, IL 60201
The Wine Goddess
If you know your mom loves a good glass of wine, but you couldn’t tell the difference between a sauvignon blanc and a cabernet yourself, be sure to stop by The Wine Goddess for some professional help. Not only will the helpful staff help you pick out a bottle of wine your mom is sure to love, but they also offer classes, events, and a wine bar for tastings. A subscription to the Wine Goddess Wine Club is the gift that keeps on giving. Once you join, the staff will send you two top-tier bottles of wine a month for below retail price. Pickup is also available if you are local, and subscriptions start at just $35 dollars a month.
(847) 475-9463
702 Main Street, Evanston, IL 60202
Clairvoyant Center Chicago
For those that are unfamiliar with Clairvoyant Center Chicago, they have offered a variety of meditation classes designed to help practitioners and the uninitiated alike create a safe space for spiritual growth and development for over 20 years. The Clairvoyant Center offers readings and healing in addition to their workshops, many at low to no cost. Mothers may be particularly interested in exploring their auras and chakras as part of the Mommy Meditation Class.
(847) 757-2838
941 Chicago Avenue, Evanston, IL 60202
Cottage Jewelry
If you are looking for fine or exotic jewelry for Mom, look no further than Cottage Jewelry, a neighborhood favorite for more than four decades. The selection at Cottage Jewelry is sure to fit all tastes and price points, but if you don’t see anything you think Mom will like, consider commissioning a custom piece made just for her. The jewelers at this establishment are both knowledgeable and friendly and will be happy to work with you to create a highly customized work for the special mother in your life.
(847) 328-1420
530 Dempster Street, Evanston, IL 60202
Stumble & Relish
Looking for unique artisanal jewelry for your own mother? The mother and daughter team behind the boutique Stumble & Relish hand curate their collection and display the stunning works of independent jewelry artists, many of them local to the area themselves. But the shop isn’t limited to earrings, necklaces, and rings. They also carry a full complement of gift items, including Chicago and Evanston themed merchandise, puzzles and games, ceramics, kitchen and bar goods, and home décor. For those on a budget, there is an entire section filled with gifts for under $20.
(872) 227-0801
1312 Chicago Avenue, Evanston, IL 60201
Lea Med Spa
Trying to ensure the mom in your life is as beautiful on the outside as she is within? This local Evanston spa is happy to help give any mom the confidence and glow that only a day at the spa can provide. Lea Med Spa offers a wide variety of services, including PDO threads, BOTOX treatments, chemical peels, and micro needling.
(312) 532-1081
719 Main Street, Evanston, IL 60202
Evanston Space
Space is Evanston’s own live music hall. Established in 2008, it is a beloved venue for many in the community. If your mom already has her next concert tickets, try checking out the Space shop for exclusive merchandise, including hats, T-shirts, tote bags, and even a retro pint glass. Big spenders can even rent out Space for a personal concert for $2,000 dollars. Every purchase will (hopefully) help ensure your mom can enjoy live music at her favorite local venue for years to come.
(847) 492-8860
1245 Chicago Avenue, Evanston, IL 60202
Nice Lena
For a one-of-a-kind gift sure to fill moms with delight and whimsy, be sure to check out Nice Lena for unique origami paper earrings, Hanafuda earrings, and hilarious cards. Besides jewelry, Nice Lena also offers candles, mugs, and art prints that you won’t find anywhere else. The store is lovingly curated, and the helpful staff will be happy to help find something cute for your mom to enjoy.
(847) 859-6699
1235 Chicago Avenue, Evanston, IL 60202
Ayla’s Originals
If your mother is a big fan of beads or beading, then Ayla’s Originals is probably the perfect spot to go gift-hunting. The boutique-style shop is also great for those looking for freshwater pearls, Swarovski crystals, Czech glass, and special or antique beads sourced from all over the world. Ayla’s also offers DIY classes for those looking to learn more about the artistry of beading, leatherwork, or jewelry making themselves.
(847) 328-4040
1511 Sherman Avenue, Evanston, IL 60201
Bloom 3
For many, the most traditional Mother’s Day gift is flowers. If you tend to agree, Bloom 3 is the perfect place to pick up a bouquet. Check out the florist’s portfolio for a glimpse of what has been possible for clients such as the Chicago Cubs and the Baha’I Temple.
(847) 424-0003
1503 Chicago Avenue, Evanston, IL 60201
Bookends & Beginnings
Books can be a thoughtful gift for any occasion, but they are especially perfect for Mother’s Day if your mom also happens to be a bibliophile. It is always good to support a local independent bookstore when purchasing books for your own bookworm, and the selection at Bookends & Beginnings is top notch. The helpful staff will guide you toward books based on your mom’s tastes and are more than happy to order any book they don’t have available.
(224) 999-7722
1712 Sherman Avenue, Alley #1, Evanston, IL 60201
Kilwins
More than just an ice cream and chocolate shop, Kilwins in downtown Evanston is an experience for your senses. Especially for Mother’s Day, Kilwins offers chocolate-covered strawberries for pre-order that can be picked up on Mother’s Day for optimal freshness. Just try not to be tempted by the smell of freshly made waffle cones and cocoa while you’re supposed to be getting your gift for Mom (but if you choose to pick up some ice cream, we doubt anyone will complain!).
(847) 868-8739
Pickup available at Kilwins Evanston, 1724 Sherman Ave, Evanston, Illinois 60201
The Gift Bash
The Gift Bash is a great place for those looking for truly customizable gifts. You can personalize your own tumbler, mugs, and more with logos or pictures uploaded straight from your phone. In addition, The Gift Bash is a great place for funky gifts including leather key rings, bracelets, personalized stamps, cards, and things that are perfect for the mom that is always entertaining. Check out their entire selection here.
(847) 525-3835
1200 Sheridan Road, Evanston, IL 60202
Gracie’s
For moms whose style is fashionable but comfy, Gracie’s, established in 2012, has apparel from brands like Fenini and Jag that is sure to please. Besides clothing, Gracie’s also offers a wide selection of children’s gifts, jewelry, and other accessories. And if you think the mom in your life is a true superhero 365 days a year, there is a shirt that will let her know just that!
(847) 859-2527
1939 Central Street, Evanston, IL 60201
So, there you have it! 20 great local businesses offering unique items sure to please any mom. We hope you’ve enjoyed learning more about these Evanston businesses and maybe have even been inspired to pick up something for the maternal figure in your life. Did we miss one of your favorite local spots? Be sure to sound off in the comments on our Facebook page.