First, Send Invitations.
Get your list of guests together, including all mothers and children from across your family. The result could be an intimate gathering, or a real houseful! Be as elaborate as you like with the invitations. Handmade cards featuring old snapshots of family members are a great way to set the tone.
In your invitations, encourage guests of all ages to spend a little time digging up a memento to bring for a keepsake centerpiece — think grade-school artwork or vacation pictures that bring back fond memories of Mom. Grown children can think along the lines of a college diploma or wedding invitation to show gratitude for Mom's support in early adulthood.
Next, Plan the Menu.
It's hard to separate the ideas of mother and nourishment, and almost everyone has a favourite childhood recipe that no one can make just like Mom. Call your guests a week ahead of the gathering and ask them to find one of the recipes they loved best, and prepare it for the meal. Plan the rest of the dishes to round out the meal — and don't forget to include some of Mom's favourites!
Then, Enjoy the Day!
If possible, set your table with heirloom china, silver and fresh flowers. As your guests arrive, ask each to help fill out the keepsake centerpiece by adding their memento to the table. During the meal, have each guest take a turn sharing the memories around their mementos and the dishes they chose to prepare. They're bound to spark fond memories, and let Mom know how much you really care.
Celebrating From Far Away?
Not everyone lives close enough to Mom to be with her on her special day. But if you don't, remember what mothers love best is the gift of your time. Pick up the phone for a long catch-up chat, and be sure to send her favourite flowers.
