If there’s ever a reason to go all out, I’d say Mother’s Day is an obvious choice.  This year when prepping for the big day, I had an idea of what I wanted to pull together; a no-fuss brunch filled with all of mom’s favorites.  Miniature cast iron skillet quiches, almond filled croissants, macaroons, and the ultimate fruit tart.  A fresh (and super simple) salad of grilled Georgia peaches, spring snap peas, and candied pecans, plus a seasonal rhubarb and strawberry fizzy libation (recipes coming this week).  And of course, plenty of cheeses and nuts to nibble on, as I know we’ll linger at the table long after official brunch hours are through.

This year, though, I knew the biggest treat of all wouldn’t be the brunch, but rather what I had waiting for her at brunch.  You see my Mother is one of the most selfless, giving, generous people I know.  Always caring for others before herself, often pushing her needs and wants to the side, which means Mama K does not treat herself near enough.  So along with brunch and blooms, I also had a new spring wardrobe waiting for her from one of our favorites, J.McLaughlin.   

J.McLaughlin is a go-to for me when I’m in need of high quality, effortless looks that I (and Mom) will wear for years to come.  For Mom, I picked out a few spring shirtdresses in punched up patterns I knew she could dress up for a date night with Dad, or throw on some sandals for a more casual day look.  Because Mom loves color, I also snagged her these amazing silk and linen pants in marigold (I grabbed the ivory for myself), a blue gingham button down and easy summer sweater.  I, of course, couldn’t resist picking up a few things for myself like this classic and comfortable stripe dress, pom-pom shorts because obviously they have pom-poms, and my soon to be worn-way-too-much palm river hat.

To say Mom was surprised by the day is an understatement.  It helped that we celebrated early since little did she know she’d also be wrangled into a photo shoot, which honestly I wish you could have been a fly on the wall for.  Let’s just say food styling and modeling are not Mama K’s forte, though she is rocking that dress pretty well.  So what do you have up your sleeve to celebrate Mom this year?  Truly, MKR

P.S.  If you’re scratching your head over just what to get Mom this year, check out these timeless wardrobe pieces and gift ideas.  I think I already know what Mama K is eyeing.  xo