From Spa Treatments to Timepieces, These Are the Top Gifts for Boston Moms, Grads, and Dads This Season

Spring in Boston brings more than just warm sun and 6:30 sunsets — it brings celebration. With 64 colleges and universities in the city and both Mother’s Day and Father’s Day approaching, there are plenty of special people to show how much we care.

For occasions like these, it can be hard to find a gift that says what we want it to say: Congratulations; I appreciate you; You amaze me. You may know you want to give something sentimental, precious, and priceless, but where do you begin? We spoke to experts from some of Boston’s most sought-after retailers to find out what’s great for giving this spring.

For Dads or Moms: A Massage

“Men might go to the gym or play 18 holes,” says Linda Townsend, owner of Release Well-Being Center, which will open their doors at The Heritage On The Garden in April. “But actually taking the time to relax and decrease stress—most men don’t put that at the top of their list.” That’s why her number one recommendation for a Father’s Day gift (that they’ll actually use) is a massage. And, of course, as our Moms work, raise children and grandchildren, and spend time on their feet day after day, a massage is the perfect elixir for aches, pains, and stress.

At Release, there are a breadth of options depending on what the mothers and fathers in your life might want. “If they’ve never had a massage before, then we usually recommend the Serenity [massage],” says Linda. The massage therapist will use lighter strokes to create a relaxing, feel-good massage. You could also go a step further into the custom massage which allows focus points like the back or shoulders. If you already know they love a good massage, try for the deep tissue or trigger point massage.

For Grads: A Day At The Salon

If you know a high school or college graduate who deserves to be pampered by some of the most talented hairdressers and colorists in Boston, look no further than Salon Mario Russo, the elite hair salon (with a stunning interior atmosphere) at The Heritage On The Garden. If you find yourself in a time crunch, pick up a gift card so they can choose a service they want. You can also browse luxury hair products in travel or full-size.

Whichever product or service you choose to give your graduate, you can rest assured their experience will make them feel like kings and queens. “We are dedicated to offering our guests a luxurious, clean atmosphere where they feel pampered in a safe environment to unwind,” says owner Mario Russo.

For Dads: A New Watch

A brand-new timepiece can be a deeply sentimental gift. Depending on their style, your father is likely looking for a specific style of watch. Audemars Piguet has a stunning selection of watches in various finishes and styles. For dads with flashier taste, The Royal Oak Concept Flying Tourbillon “Tamara Ralph” limited edition watch features a 18-carat rose gold case and gradient shades of brown, bronze and gold on the dial. For a dad who likes earth tones and small, quirky details, the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Openworked “Cactus Jack” is a brown ceramic piece with a handwritten font and luminescent coating. Finally, for the sleek and classic types, the Ultra-Complication Universelle makes the perfect accessory to dress up any of dad’s favorite outfits.

For Grads and Moms: A Spa Day

Our moms deserve to be pampered and taken care of, just like they took care of us for years. And as for grads? “Grads are so stressed out going down the homestretch,” says Townsend. Sending them to the spa after graduation is the perfect reset they need for their next chapter. “Whether they’re preparing for college and applications or the workforce, [give] them a spa day so that they can come in and experience all of the healing therapies,” she says.

Release Well-Being Center’s new location will emphasize contrast therapy, which is when you spend time alternating between the sauna and the cold plunge—they’ll have two infrared saunas, a traditional sauna, and two cold plunges. “The cold plunge is going to give you that cold water, high euphoria, but also just reduce the stress and tension you’ve been experiencing,” she says.

Release experts will welcome spa guests and walk them through all their options for healing treatments before they embark on their spa days, so their experience can be tailored towards their preferences and needs. “They can do what they want,” Townsend says. “Sometimes that could be grabbing a magazine, taking it to one of our heated benches or cozy club chairs, and reading and napping. Because that might be what you need on that day.”

For The Whole Family: Dinner On The Garden

Taking a loved one to an indulgent dinner is one of the most intimate and priceless experiences you can give. Bistro du Midi is the ideal spot for a special occasion meal (whether it’s for a dad or a grad) with its view of the Boston Public Garden and charming European feel. This season, they’re debuting their spring tasting menu, Spring On The Garden, which launches on March 27. Highlights include seared foie gras, Hopkins Farm lamb doppio ravioli, Crescent Farms Duck Breast dumplings, and more.

Alternatively, if your mom, dad, or grad is looking for a quintessential Boston dining experience at a tried-and-true restaurant that’s been around since the 1950s, look no further than Legal Sea Foods. Celebrate the return of summer with a lobster roll and clam chowder, oysters and other local shellfish, and their new smash-hit sushi menu. Plus, if you’re looking to throw a celebration to remember, you can book their 25-seat private dining room.

For Grad: Designer Fashion

Sending your fashion-forward grad on their next journey with a symbol of your pride can be a great way to frame your gift giving. Look to some of Boston’s top designer stores at The Heritage On The Garden to begin your search. Hermès is always a classic option for priceless accessories like scarves, handbags, belts, and fragrances. Bottega Veneta is not only the designer go-to for spring-green hues, it’s also a destination for trendy jewelry and more accessories.

If your grad is looking for eventwear or staples for their new wardrobe, stop in to St. John, whose spring 2024 collection embraces themes of the American West, polka dots, and vibrant colors.

Likewise, Anne Fontaine is the perfect summer and vacation wardrobe destination, featuring iridescent florals and flouncy white blouses, inventive linen dresses, and an overall energy of the renewal of spring and the pureness of nature. “This collection is a testament to the enduring beauty that can be found in embracing the cyclical nature of life, celebrating the renewal that comes with each passing season,” says Store Manager Amanda Blynn.

Reserve your tables, place your orders, and make your appointments so your Boston moms, dads, and grads know how much you care. For more information, visit theheritageonthegarden.com.