Mother’s Day will be here before you know it, and today I’d like to help you setup the perfect gift for her by sharing 5 fun ideas for Mother’s Day. Whether you’re looking for a nice day in, or something extra special like a photoshoot, I’ve written down some of my favorite ideas and places that I’m excited to share with you. Check out the list below for inspiration.BRUNCH AT A LOCAL FAVORITEWhether you’re a breakfast or lunch person, brunch is always a great idea for Mother’s Day. And depending on what you both like, you can opt for traditional breakfast foods such as pancakes and hash browns, or something trendier like a coffee bar. A few great places I recommend trying are Plow in San Francisco, Heavenly Bistro in Walnut Creek, and Sideboard in Danville.

1 - Family Photoshoot

Photography is the perfect way to capture some of our favorite memories. Plus, photos help us keep those memories close for years to come. That’s why a family photoshoot for Mother’s Day makes an extra special gift. Just put on your favorite outfits and head to a beautiful outdoor location to enjoy the fresh air, blooming flowers, and warmth of the sun together. Mom may also want some solo photos or portraits of her kids and/or grandkids.

The Bay Area has near perfect weather year round, so finding a beautiful spot to take photos is pretty easy. But a few of favorite local spots include Dublin Hills Regional Park in Dublin, Del Valle Regional Park in Livermore, the Hakone Japanese Garden in Saratoga. Plus, anywhere with a view of the Golden Bridge is a winner in my eyes.

2 - GIRL TIME

Girl time between mothers, daughters, and granddaughters is incredibly special, and I have a few recommendations on fun activities to enjoy together. First up—shopping.

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Shopping

Whether you decide to hit the mall or a local farmers market, shopping is a beloved activity between mom and daughter because it’s fun! Try heading to Santana Row in San Jose, the Heart of the City Farmers Market in San Francisco, or your local Outlet Mall for some great deals.

‍Afternoon Tea

Afternoon tea is another fun and tasty activity. I personally love trying out new tea flavors, and the snacks that come along with afternoon tea are so delicious! There are quite a few afternoon tea spots in the Bay Area to choose from too. I recommend Tyme for Tea & Co in Fremont, Golden Tea Garden in Hayward, and Camellia Tea Room in Benicia. Spa Day

Spa Day

Last but definitely not least, a trip to the spa is the perfect girl’s day activity. Enjoy face masks, massages, and a mani-pedi combo. A few spas I recommend include Waterhouse Way Bathhouse Spa in Palo Alto, Sen Spa in San Francisco, and The Woodhouse Day Spa in Walnut Creek.

3 - FAMILY DINNER

If you’re looking for a restaurant on the fancier side, I suggest Michael Mina, an upscale restaurant in San Francisco. For something fun try Forbidden Island—a tiki bar in Alameda—where you’ll enjoy cocktails and small bites. And for dishes with delicious, unique flavors, try Miss Ollie's in Oakland, where you’ll enjoy Caribbean soul food.  

4 - MOVIE AND POPCORN

Whether you decide to watch an old favorite at home or head to the theater for the latest flick, a movie and popcorn night is a fun and relaxing way to spend Mother’s Day. There are a couple May movies I’m excited to check out in theaters including Avengers Infinity War and Life of the Party. Some personal Mother’s Day favorites, include Pixar’s Brave, Steel Magnolias, The Blind Side, and The Sound of Music.

I hope I've been of some help to you in finding the perfect Mother's Day activity for your family. If a photoshoot is an idea that you especially loved, I'd be delighted to get in touch so we can prepare you for an upcoming monthly mini-session, or you can also contact us for a custom booking. We can’t wait to meet you!