1800Flowers Petal Talk

18 Unique Mother’s Day Gift Ideas for Moms & Grandmas

Moms are one of life’s greatest gifts who would probably cherish just about any present a loved one gave them for Mother’s Day. But we owe it to our moms to go the extra mile and find the type of gift that not only shows our love and appreciation for them but makes it clear we didn’t just close our eyes and grab something.

To help you put your thoughtfulness on full display, we recruited two mothers from two different generations (and who may just happen to be related to the author) to provide some valuable and caring insider advice on the type of unique Mother’s Day gift ideas the moms in your life would treasure, and remember always.

Mom No. 1: Lindsay

Lindsay, 43, has two children, a 14-year-old daughter and 10-year-old son, and works in marketing and advertising. She is owner of a craft brewery taproom and enjoys listening to live country music with her husband. An experienced marathon runner, she is also a dog mom of two adventurous Goldendoodles.

1. Home Tweet Home Birdhouse

unique mothers day gift ideas Home Tweet Home Birdhouse

“This is so fun and a really sweet, unexpected gift idea. Look at that mini heart wreath and those little flowers in the window boxes! This would easily be the best birdhouse on our block. It’s so full of life and will remind me of my kids, and our family’s home, every time I see a bird visit it.”

2. My Pawfect Pet

unique mothers day gift ideas My Pawfect Pet

“I’ve always loved succulents because they look nice alongside anything, make perfect office decor, and are easy to keep alive — which is a must for me! But what makes this selection a real gem is the cute little dog planter. My daughter and I have such fun with our dogs, and the matching frame personalizes it even further.”

3. Pink Butterfly Ranunculus Bouquet

unique mothers day gift ideas Pink Butterfly Ranunculus Bouquet

“Being a rare flower sets it apart to begin with, and that apothecary jar is no normal vase. Plus, the story behind them in the details section — they were grown in Southern California under coastal sunshine — that’s some special stuff! I’d always be thinking of that when I looked at them.”

4. Magnificent Roses Preserved Vintage Rose Medley

unique mothers day gift ideas Magnificent Roses Preserved Vintage Rose Medley

“I’ve always been interested in preserved roses but wasn’t just going to go and buy them for myself. Given how long they last, you could even write a card about loving your mom forever, or maybe wanting her to enjoy the roses all year around, just like you enjoy her company.”

5. Spring Sunshine Hydrangea Bouquet

unique mothers day gift ideas Spring Sunshine Hydrangea Bouquet

“Another batch of uncommon flowers, this is a really impressive arrangement. I love the muted pinks and pops of yellow. The description says the Peruvian lilies arrive in bud form and bloom over a few days — it’s like a beautiful surprise gift that gives every day!”

6. Fleur de Chocolate Belgian Chocolate Roses – Classic Milk & White

unique mothers day gift ideas Belgian Chocolate Roses

“I’ve really never seen anything like this! The roses look so realistic, I’d almost feel bad eating them. That’s OK, I’ll just ration them out — I can’t resist white chocolate anything. And that gold hatbox will definitely be getting put to use again.”

7. A-Dog-Able in a Basket

unique mothers day gift ideas a DOG able in a Basket

“This is such an imaginative bouquet, so adorable, and reminds me of our Goldendoodles. The spring colors are perfect, and the simplicity of the wicker basket boosts the natural feel. I’d be showing this to all the dog parents who came over, while making sure to keep it well out of our real dogs’ reach!”

8. Candier scented candles

unique mothers day gift ideas who run the world moms candle

“So much more fun than your basic scented candles! The slogans and captions are really neat. ‘Who Run the World? Moms!’ is the obvious one, but because of the fun colors and mix-ins, I’d pick ‘Donut Worry, Be Happy’ and ‘Go Shawty, It’s Your Birthday.’ (I do love me some 50 Cent!)”

9. Mother’s Day Blossom & Butterfly Surprise Box

unique mothers day gift ideas Mothers Day Blossom Butterfly Surprise Box

“This takes strawberry shortcake — which is my fave, by the way — to a whole new level. The ‘Flying Butterfly Surprise Flower Shower’ presentation they show here looks amazing! So cool. I would never forget this one, and my kids would have a ball watching me open this.”

Mom No. 2: Linda

Linda, 75, has three children in their 40s and five grandchildren under 14. After a 35-year career as a high school English teacher, she enjoys family beach vacations on the Jersey Shore, personal fitness and aerobics, traveling with her husband, and walks in the park with their Golden Retriever, Buddy.

10. To My Precious Grandma Necklace

unique mothers day gift ideas To My Precious Grandma Necklace

“I love the symbolism of the circle of life in this necklace and how it represents the bonds between me, my daughter, and my grandchild. The rose gold ring edition strikes me as a bit more unique than the standard gold or silver; the glow reminds me of a heart.”

11. For Grandma Personalized Wind Chimes

unique mothers day gift ideas For Grandma Personalized Wind Chimes

“What a thoughtful addition to my garden! These wind chimes would be a permanent reminder of the special love between a grandma and her grandchild, and with such a pleasing sound, just like a child’s voice. They come with a stand as well, so they wouldn’t just be stuck in one tree, which is different from our current chimes.”

12. Honey Almond Leopard Spa Gift Set

unique mothers day gift ideas Honey Almond Leopard Spa Basket

“Moms and grandmas work double duty. We love it, but we do get tired, and this spa gift set is the perfect pampering present! I love the rich black-and-gold leopard print, and especially the travel mug with my own permanent straw.”

13. Fields of Europe for Spring with Strawberries

unique mothers day gift ideas Fields of Europe for Spring With Strawberries

“This flowers-and-candy combination solves the dilemma of which would I like more for Mother’s Day. And you can’t beat chocolate covered strawberries! The bouquet is really not like most; it’s based on the ones in European flower markets, which reminds me of visiting my grandparents in England as a child.”

14. Family Connections Personalized Bracelet

unique mothers day gift ideas Family Connections Personalized Bracelet

“This is not just an elegant piece of jewelry — it’s a conversation starter! What proud mother or grandmother would pass up the opportunity to talk about her loved ones? I’m wearing this one at social functions so I can do that all night.”

15. Foldable Splatter Guard

unique mothers day gift ideas Foldable Splatter Guard

“It’s tough to cook some of my best recipes while keeping the oven top free of grease. Being able to lift this one side at a time is such a great idea! It makes a perfect present because I probably wouldn’t buy it for myself, but I certainly could use it.”

16. Parlor Ice Cream Mixing Set

unique mothers day gift ideas Parlor Ice Cream Mixing Set

“I’m a fan of ice cream toppings just as much as ice cream flavors, and I’d enjoy using this to create new recipes with the whole family. I know the grandkids would come up with some interesting mix-in ideas! It would be such a fun activity to enjoy with them.”

17. You Are My Sunshine Brownie Box

unique mothers day gift ideas You Are My Sunshine Brownie Box

“Being the light of someone’s life is such a compliment, and the title of this gift was my favorite children’s song as a young mother. And those flavors! The kids can try a bite (except for the red velvet), but this is staying on the top shelf. The sun is so adorable, it’ll probably be the last thing to be eaten.”

18. Aromatherapy Gift Set Lavender Meadows

unique mothers day gift ideas Aromatherapy Gift Set Lavender Meadows

“Lavender is such a relaxing scent, and this is more than just candles and smells — all the purple makes for great spring decoration. And I could see myself displaying the lilacs from our garden in the heart jar.”

25 Heartwarming Songs Celebrating Mothers

Motherhood is a timeless theme in music, inspiring countless artists to create beautiful melodies and poignant lyrics that capture the essence of maternal love, sacrifice, and nurturing. As Mother’s Day approaches, one way to honor the special women in our lives is by listening to some of the best songs about moms.

These touching songs celebrate the unique and unconditional love of mothers. Whether you’re with your mom or simply reflecting on cherished memories, let the music remind you of the profound impact mothers have on our lives.

Here are 20 heartwarming songs that pay tribute to the extraordinary bond between mothers and their children.

1. “A Song for Mama” by Boyz II Men

This soulful R&B ballad expresses deep gratitude and appreciation for the unconditional love and support of mothers.

2. “The Perfect Fan” by Backstreet Boys

Backstreet Boys’ heartfelt tribute celebrates the unwavering presence and guidance of a mother throughout life’s journey.

Backstreet Boys - The Perfect Fan (Audio)

3. “Dear Mama” by Tupac Shakur

Tupac Shakur’s emotional ode to his own mother explores the struggles and sacrifices of single mothers with honesty and vulnerability.

4. “In My Daughter’s Eyes” by Martina McBride

Martina McBride’s touching country ballad reflects on the world as seen through the eyes of a mother, emphasizing the unconditional love and acceptance mothers provide.

5. “You’ll Be in My Heart” by Phil Collins

Featured in Disney’s “Tarzan,” this uplifting song celebrates the eternal bond between a mother and her child.

6. “Mama Liked the Roses” by Elvis Presley

The King’s tender ballad reminisces about cherished memories shared with his mother, showcasing the simple joys of a mother’s love.

7. “Mother” by John Lennon

John Lennon’s poignant tribute to his own mother reflects on the impact she had on his life and the enduring connection they share.

8. “Mother’s Little Helper” by The Rolling Stones

While not a traditional tribute, this Rolling Stones classic humorously addresses the struggles of mothers juggling household responsibilities.

9. “The Baby” by Blake Shelton

Blake Shelton’s country ballad celebrates the transformative experience of becoming a parent, reflecting on the profound love and responsibility it brings.

Blake Shelton - The Baby (Official Music Video)

10. “Sweet Child o’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses

Although not explicitly about motherhood, this rock anthem evokes sentiments of nostalgia and love, making it a popular choice for celebrating the bond between parent and child.

Guns N' Roses - Sweet Child O' Mine (Official Music Video)

11. “I Hope You Dance” by Lee Ann Womack

This uplifting country song offers words of wisdom and encouragement from a mother to her child, urging them to embrace life’s opportunities and challenges.

Lee Ann Womack - I Hope You Dance (Official Music Video)

12. “Coat of Many Colors” by Dolly Parton

This autobiographical song recounts Dolly Parton’s childhood experiences and the love her mother showed by making her a coat out of rags, emphasizing the value of love over material wealth.

Dolly Parton - Coat Of Many Colors (Official Audio)

13. “You Can’t Lose Me” by Faith Hill

Faith Hill’s heartfelt country ballad reassures her child that no matter what challenges they face, she’ll always be there to support and love them unconditionally.

Faith Hill - "You Can't Lose Me" (Official Video)

14. “Turn to You” by Justin Bieber

In this tribute, Justin Bieber expresses gratitude for his mother’s unwavering support and sacrifices, and acknowledges her as his source of strength and inspiration.

15. “The Best Day” by Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift’s nostalgic song reflects on the cherished memories of a mother-daughter relationship, celebrating the special moments shared and the enduring love between them.

Taylor Swift - The Best Day (Taylor's Version) (Lyric Video)

16. “Hey Mama” by Kanye West

Kanye West reflects on the sacrifices his mother made and the impact she had on his life in this heartfelt tribute.

17. “Mother Like Mine” by The Band Perry

A celebration of the unique bond shared by mothers and daughters, this country song by The Band Perry pays homage to the values and virtues passed down from mothers to their children.

13. “Two of Us” by Louis Tomlinson

Louis Tomlinson’s poignant song honors his late mother, reflecting on the memories they shared and the strength he draws from her legacy.

Louis Tomlinson - Two of Us (Official Video)

19. “I Turn to You” by Christina Aguilera

Christina Aguilera acknowledges her mother as a constant source of love and strength in this heartfelt ballad that expresses gratitude for a mother’s guidance and support.

Christina Aguilera - I Turn To You (Official Video)

20. “Mama’s Song” by Carrie Underwood

Carrie Underwood’s country hit celebrates the transition from daughter to wife while assuring her mother that she’ll always be cherished and loved.

Carrie Underwood - Mama's Song (Official Video)

21. “Mother How Are You Today” by Maywood

This poignant song by the Dutch duo Maywood reflects on the emotional connection between a mother and her child.

22. “Mama Said” by Lukas Graham

Lukas Forchhammer, lead singer of the Danish band Lukas Graham, reminisces about the wisdom and guidance imparted by his mother in this heartfelt song.

Lukas Graham - Mama Said [Official Music Video]

23. “The Perfect Wisdom of Our God” by Keith & Kristyn Getty

This beautiful hymn by Northern Irish duo Keith and Kristyn Getty celebrates the nurturing and guiding role of mothers.

Perfect Wisdom of Our God (Official Lyric Video) - Keith & Kristyn Getty

24. “Hey Mama” by David Guetta ft. Nicki Minaj

David Guetta and Nicki Minaj’s upbeat track is a tribute to the strength and resilience of mothers.

David Guetta - Hey Mama (Official Video) ft Nicki Minaj, Bebe Rexha & Afrojack

25. “Mother Love” by Queen

Freddie Mercury’s haunting vocals express longing and admiration for his mother in this Queen masterpiece.

How the Chocolate Roses by Fleur de Chocolate Came to Be

Jennifer Simon estimates she’s brought “hundreds or thousands” of beautiful, eatable, and giftable products to market throughout her 25-year career in merchandising. And her latest launch, Chocolate Roses by Fleur de Chocolate, combines all three into one gorgeous, delicious, and ready-to-ship package.

The inspiration to create these hat boxes full of confectionar y roses came to Simon in March 2023. During a meeting with a New Jersey-based partner, the Chocolate Covered Company, she had her interest piqued by a set of mock-ups for roses made from Belgian chocolate. She instantly recognized a product opportunity for the company. “It was like this perfect synergy,” says Simon, product development director at 1-800-Flowers.com. “Here, we have flowers, but they’re made out of Belgian chocolate, so it’s just like another type of flower.”

The designs took a page from a growing trend overseas of remarkably realistic-looking “floral arrangements” that were actually made of chocolate. In certain parts of Eastern Europe, Simon explains, “confectionary florists are very popular. There are little boutiques that have handmade, very elaborate flowers out of chocolate, which they wrap up like a bouquet of flowers.”

Simon was taken by these confectionery works of art, and she knew they would be a hit with customers here in the States, where the trend had yet to take off.

At this point, however, she and her team were working with just 3D-printed models of the sweet roses. So, they got to work on making their vision a reality.

Bringing the chocolate roses to life

Because Simon’s flowers would be delivered by mail, the first hurdle to clear was devising a packing plan that would keep the blooms intact and at a safe temperature while preserving the dramatic unboxing experience.

Simon loved the elegant look and feel of the hat boxes sometimes used to package chocolate and real floral bouquets in Belgium and other European countries, and she sought to preserve that nod to the product’s origin in the 1-800-Flowers.com version. “Packaging the Fleur De Chocolate roses this way makes them look like fresh roses in a hat box, which you sometimes find at a high-end floral boutique,” Simon says.

Packaging decided, it was on to the next challenge: transit. The folks at the Chocolate Covered Company developed a proprietary bloom holder shaped like a miniature plastic test tube that grasps the stem of each chocolate rose. These pieces keep the bouquet in place during delivery to ensure the floral display is in the same shape when it arrives at its destination as it is when it leaves the chocolatier’s.

fleur de chocolate roses vday luxe square

The final step was molding the chocolate roses themselves. The social media-worthy confectionary flowers popping up in Eastern Europe were individually hand molded, but this wasn’t an option for Simon, given the scale of 1-800-Flowers.com’s business. Instead, the product team created chocolate rose-shaped silicone molds to make production on a mass level possible, Simon says.

The process of creating a full bouquet of chocolate roses, Simon notes, is still much slower than that of factory-dispensed chocolates. “The chocolate is poured into the silicone molds by hand,” she explains. “After they set, the artisans unwrap them [from the molds].” Each flower is then individually wrapped in cellophane and secured with a bloom holder. The result of this handmade process is that no two Fleur De Chocolate roses are identical.

A debut hit

Once the chocolatiers at the Chocolate Covered Company generated enough inventory of the roses — about nine months after Simon saw her first mock-up — the first five Fleur De Chocolate Rose products went live on 1-800-Flowers.com.

The roses come in milk, dark, and white chocolate, and in a range of colors. The lighter colors, such as pink and lavender, are made from white chocolate dyed with food coloring; the deeper red roses are made from a blend of pink white chocolate and dark chocolate.

fleur de chocolate roses mothers day square

Each box comes in three sizes: Ultimate (featuring 60 stems), Deluxe (40 stems), and Classic (21 stems). And don’t worry about finishing your bouquet right away — the chocolate roses will stay fresh for up to 45 days if kept in a cool, dry place.

The multicolored sets of chocolate roses make an eye-catching gift for any occasion. The latest launch, Springtime Blooms, includes pastel pinks and purples just in time for Mother’s Day or graduations. The classic Love & Romance collection is a thoughtful gift for a special someone, and the Birthday Wishes bouquet would be a welcome surprise on a friend’s big day. (It also happens to be the best seller, according to Simon.)

The products made such a splash after their launch at the end of 2023 that Simon and her team plan to expand the flower and flavor offerings. They’re working on blooming daisies and sunflowers, which will make great gifts for baby showers, anniversaries, and housewarming parties.

Next up in the flavor department? Arrangements made up entirely of white, milk, or dark chocolate roses to, as Simon puts it, “satisfy the purists.”

She says, “We will be adding versions that reach our true chocolate lovers.”

8 Best Mother’s Day Gifts for New Moms

In my early days of new motherhood, I was caught in a whirlwind of euphoric love, feedings, doctor’s visits, family visits, and keeping our 450-square-foot apartment — which had turned into “baby central” — from falling into an abyss of clutter.

“Me” time? It wasn’t happening. Sure, I had managed a date night here and there with my husband (thanks to my mom) and a quiet walk or two (thanks to my husband), but it wasn’t until my first Mother’s Day rolled around that I was ready to pause and celebrate all that I had accomplished growing this little one. And, now, making a new life with him.

This lineup of gifts for new moms this Mother’s Day has celebratory self-care and the little pleasures in “life before baby” in mind.

1. “Feeling Sunny” Coffee and Cookies Gift Box

Mothers Day gifts for new moms coffee and cookies gift box

Coffee-loving new moms love it for the energy boost, but the ritual of enjoying a great cup of coffee from start to finish is a rare occurrence. This gift basket, replete with a beautiful new mug, the deep flavors and aromas of two types of coffee, including two dozen cookies and other treats, puts the joy back into her java.

2. Sunny Days Fruit and Cheese Gift Box

Mothers Day gifts for new moms Fruit and Cheese Gift Box

After nine months of being unable to enjoy blue and soft-ripened cheeses, every cheese-loving new mom will yelp with joy after unwrapping this gourmet cheese and fruit topper box. This duo of artisan cheeses covers a wide-ranging palate: sharp white cheddar and a salty yet creamy Gouda.

3. Wild Ahi Tuna Steaks

Mothers Day gifts for new moms Wild Ahi Tuna Steaks

Sushi is another food pregnant women have to forgo during pregnancy. Hence, a gift of these delectable, line-caught, sushi-grade yellowfin tuna steaks brings one of her favorite foods to her doorstep to enjoy any time she likes, and in recipe-ready portions. We recommend searing them.

4. Embroidered Luxury Ivory Fleece Robe

Mothers Day gifts for new moms Embroidered Fleece Robe

Downtime for a new mom feels that much better when she’s wrapped in the cozy comfort and relaxation of this luxurious fleece bathrobe — and monogramming it gives it a special touch. Surprise her by embroidering it with an inspirational moniker, such as a favorite nickname or “Awesome Lady,” and this robe is now a power garment!

5. Relaxing Self Care Gift Box

Mothers Day gifts for new moms Self Care Gift Box

This gift epitomizes “Me Time.” Take the baby for a walk so mom can take herself to the land of bliss. Mineral bath salts, hand cream, an eye mask, and a scented candle will help her imagine being in a fortress of solitude.

6. Sweets & Sparkling Wine Bar

Mothers Day gifts for new moms Sweets and Sparkling Wine Bar

Set the scene for celebration with this fun Mom-osa bar, which includes two sparkling wines along with an assortment of baked treats, including cookies, brownies, and mini cakes. Invite her friends over and offer it as part of a brunch spread. Or, save it and wake her up to something other than the baby that, too, is sweet and bubbly!

7. Aromatherapy Shower Steamers

Mothers Day gifts for new moms Aromatherapy Shower Steamers

New moms love nothing more than luxuriating in a hot bath – but not every new mom has time for one. Make her shower time something to look forward to with these shower steamers, which come in 12 scents that are sure to put her in a state of calm and relaxation.

8. One-of-a-Kind Bouquet

Mothers Day gifts for new moms One of a Kind Bouquet

Creating a one-of-a-kind flower bouquet is a great way to celebrate a new mom’s beauty, grace, and unique personality. A stunning custom arrangement can include a unique flower from her wedding bouquet or blooms she treasured growing up. It’s a Mother’s Day gift that reminds the new mom that even though she might be exhausted, she is still a queen.

10 Best Flowers to Give for Mother’s Day & Their Meanings

Mother’s Day is a time to celebrate the remarkable women who have shaped our lives with love, guidance, and unwavering support. For some of us, though, expressing our gratitude to our moms with words can be hard. Thankfully, the language of flowers offers a timeless way to convey our appreciation.

Each of the blooms on this list carries its own unique symbolism, making the selection of the perfect bouquet a meaningful gesture. Here are the 10 best flowers to give for Mother’s Day and the sentiments they convey.

1. Roses

Roses reign supreme as a symbol of love and admiration, making them an ideal choice for Mother’s Day. The classic red rose expresses deep affection, while pink roses convey appreciation and gratitude. White roses symbolize purity and new beginnings, reflecting the endless love and devotion of a mother.

2. Tulips

Renowned for their elegant beauty and vibrant co lors, tulips are a delightful gift for Mother’s Day. Pink tulips represent affection and happiness, while purple tulips signify admiration and royalty. Yellow tulips symbolize cheerfulness and joy, reflecting the warmth and light that mothers bring into our lives.

3. Carnations

The carnation, the official flower of Mother’s Day, is cherished for their timeless appeal and symbolic significance. Pink carnations symbolize maternal love and gratitude, while white carnations represent purity and luck. With their delicate petals and sweet fragrance, carnations express the enduring bond between mother and child.

4. Orchids

As luxurious a Mother’s Day gift as you will find, orchids exude elegance and sophistication. These exotic blooms symbolize beauty, strength, and refinement, reflecting the grace and resilience of motherhood. Whether in delicate pastel shades or bold, vibrant hues, orchids captivate the senses and convey heartfelt appreciation.

5. Lilies

Lilies are revered for their striking beauty and rich symbolism, making them a meaningful choice for Mother’s Day bouquets. White lilies symbolize purity and virtue, while pink lilies represent admiration and appreciation. With their majestic presence and intoxicating fragrance, lilies honor the nurturing spirit of motherhood.

6. Peonies

Prized for their lush petals and enchanting fragrance, peonies are a cherished symbol of love and prosperity. These exquisite blooms symbolize good fortune, compassion, and beauty, embodying the essence of maternal love. Whether in soft pastel tones or bright, eye-catching hues, peonies evoke joy and gratitude on Mother’s Day.

7. Daisies

Daisies are beloved for their simplicity and charm, making them a delightful choice for Mother’s Day flowers. These cheerful blooms symbolize innocence, purity, and motherly love, capturing the essence of childhood memories and maternal care. With their sunny disposition and whimsical appeal, daisies brighten any mother’s day.

8. Sunflowers

Synonymous with happiness, vitality, and warmth, sunflowers are a radiant gift to give for Mother’s Day. These bold blooms symbolize adoration, loyalty, and resilience, reflecting the unwavering strength and love of a mother. With their bright faces and sunny demeanor, sunflowers bring joy and optimism to any occasion.

9. Gerbera daisies

Best Flowers for Mothers Day gerbera daisies

Gerbera daisies are known for their vibrant colors and cheerful demeanor, making them a playful choice for Mother’s Day bouquets. These whimsical blooms symbolize innocence, happiness, and gratitude, reflecting the joyous moments shared between mother and child. With their bold colors and joyful presence, gerbera daisies celebrate the beauty of maternal love.

10. Irises

The graceful beauty and symbolic significance of irises make them a meaningful gift for Mother’s Day. These elegant blooms symbolize faith, hope, and wisdom, reflecting the enduring strength and wisdom of motherhood. With their intricate petals and striking colors, irises honor the nurturing spirit of mothers everywhere.

12 Mexico-inspired Cinco de Mayo Party Ideas

An authentic Mexican family celebrates Cinco de mayo together at a festive table. Mexican food

A Cinco d e Mayo party is a great opportunity to get together with friends and family, celebrate the spring season, and indulge in the delicious flavors of Mexican cuisine. Originally, the fifth of May commemorated a battlefield victory (not Mexico’s independence, as many assume), but the day has evolved in the United States to one that celebrates all the wonderful things that embody the rich culture of Mexico and its people.

You don’t need to create a formal dinner party or do extensive planning to prep for a Cinco de Mayo party. In fact, by taking a more casual, family-style approach with plenty of prepared-ahead dishes, you can focus on enjoying time with guests and celebrating in the moment together.

Here are 12 Cinco de Mayo party ideas to help make your fiesta a rousing success.

1. Set a vibrant table setting

Bright colors bring a festive atmosphere to any home. Consider vibrant tablecloths, table runners, and decorative touches, such as pom pom strings, terra cotta planters, and conversation starters like these green orb planters. Add artisanal touches — just like ones you would buy from an open-air marketplace — with hand-felted pastel zinnia napkin rings that bring the beauty of the season to any dinner table.

2. Branch out with a festive scene

Decorations shouldn’t be limited to just the tabletop. Bunting is always a beautiful addition to any Mexican celebration, particularly multi-colored flags known as papel picado. Bring in royal palms and other large tropical plants to make your space feel like a Mexican getaway.

3. Add some “south of the border” floral inspiration

May is a wonderful time for a casual party, with more sun, warmer weather, and nature blooming all around. Bring the beauty of Mexico’s distinctive environment to the party with plenty of flower arrangements, such as bright Gerbera daisies, hot pink Matsumoto asters and purple dianthus, or vibrant Fuji mums. Arrange flowers around food stations, but also scatter smaller vases in gathering spaces to spread colorful vibes throughout your home.

4. Green up the party with exotic plants

Aloe vera, air plants, and cacti will create the atmosphere of a far-off getaway. Bring in some bursts of tropical color with Dendrobium and Phalaenopsis orchids to make it feel like you’re in a tropical resort like Cancún or Cozumel.

5. Infuse a bit of Mexico into every drink

Whatever is on your drink menu for your Cinco de Mayo festivities, serve it up in style with cactus-shaped stacking glasses and hand-blown margarita confetti bottom rock glasses. Give your finest tequila the royal treatment with a show-stopping presentation…like, say, displaying it in a decanter specifically designed for the Mexican spirit, complete with a vibrant green blown-glass agave plant in the center. It’s sure to draw a few eyeballs — and glasses — to it.

6. Celebrate sangria season

What Cinco de Mayo party would be complete without refreshing drinks? This red sangria kit includes a citrusy sangria drink mix and Harry & David Ross Lane Red blend wine along with crispy Mandarin and pineapple slices for garnishing. A pack of Mocktails Sansgria is perfect for those who prefer to skip the alcohol. It comes with orange peel garnishes and decorative etched wine glasses, which give off an Aztec vibe.

Classic margarita cocktail garnished with salt rim.

7. Serve up seasonal soups

Make spring soup a thing and let guests sample a variety of flavors, from tomato basil bisque and chicken chili to potato corn and zesty tortilla soup. The best part about these mixes is you hardly have to spend any time on prep. Don’t forget garnishes, such as sprigs of cilantro, sliced avocado, cotija cheese, green onions, tortilla strips, and sour cream.

8. Make fiesta fish tacos or tostadas

Fish tacos are a classic Mexican dish and can be made with just a few ingredients: chopped cabbage, minced raw onion, fried or grilled fish (cod or halibut works best), and a spicy mayo for some kick. Use “street taco” small tortillas and garnish with fresh cilantro.

9. Set up a scrumptious salsa station

cinco de mayo party ideas grilled fish tostadas

You can probably whip up a taco bar with your eyes closed, but how about a dipping station? Grab a variety of salsas and cheese dips, and present them in a personalized chip and dip bowl. Serve with an assortment of empanadas and ready-made chicken enchiladas verde.

10. Dig into dulce desserts

Tres leches is a classic Latin American cake known for its creamy sweet goodness. If you’d rather not DIY this dessert, you can get it delivered right to your door. And for more daring taste buds, serve up some memorable chocolate-covered jalapeños…yes, you read that right! Your guests will be lining up to take selfies with these one-of-a-kind treats that bring sweet and heat together in a most delicious way.

11. Keep guests entertained with plenty of play

It’s not a Cinco de Mayo party without a piñata. This googly-eyed fellow comes pre-filled with a variety of popular candy; the only problem is, he might be too cute for anyone to want to whack.

After the outdoor fun, invite your group into the kitchen to concoct their own hot sauce varieties with this DIY hot sauce kit. Or, host a salsa dance-off or Mexican-themed trivia game. And for the winner, a prize of a skinny margarita gift set!

12. Gift festive favors

Succulents, many of which originated in Mexico, make a welcome take-home gift. Or consider letting guests grow their own plants with a colorful selection of decorative flower seed pouches.

How to Plant, Grow, and Care for Peonies

Peonies are favorite flowers among gardeners. These blooms add beauty to any landscape and have one of the longest lifespans of any flower. They’re also one of the most popular kinds of cut flowers.

For all their positives, though, peonies have one big drawback: They are very seasonal and available for only a few weeks each spring. That limited availability, however, only adds to their allure.

With their exquisite beauty and relative rarity, you might think peonies would be very particular about how they are planted, grown, and cared for — but they aren’t. In fact, caring for peonies is not that different from doing so for most other flowers.

Types of peonies

Peonies come in three varieties. They are:

Herbaceous peonies
Tree peonies
Intersectional peonies

Herbaceous peonies are the most common. These usually bloom in early or mid-summer and die in the winter. The second type, tree peonies, tend to bloom in spring and lose their leaves in the fall. Intersectional peonies are essentially a cross between the two; they die back each winter like herbaceous peonies and sprout large flowers like tree peonies.

The type of peony you plant will determine when your flowers will be in season.

Peony Neon one of the most popular "Japanese"! Inflorescences

How to plant and grow peonies

Since peonies can grow rather tall (sometimes as high as 5 feet!), make sure the spot you choose to plant them is spacious enough. And remember, peonies can come back year after year, so think long term.

Here are three tips to keep in mind before planting peonies.

The planting site you choose should be exposed to sun for at least half the day. The more sun your peony receives, the more flowers it will produce.
When making a spot for your peonies, make sure you dig your hole deep enough and wide enough to accommodate their full growth.
Always make sure your peonies’ eyes — the buds growing from the crown of the plant — are facing up before placing them in the soil. Once they’re buried, cover them with soil and make sure to provide enough water.

Bonus tip: Since peonies can grow to be pretty tall, they may need more support than some other flowers in your garden. So, make sure you have stakes handy as your flowers start to grow to help hold them up, if need be.

When to plant peonies

The best time to plant peonies depends on where you live. These flowers typically grow best in cooler climates and require a cold winter season, to encourage flower growth. In general, plant peonies in the spring as soon as the ground starts to thaw, or in the fall, before the ground freezes over. Just keep in mind that if you plant in the spring, you may have to wait a year or two before you see them really start to bloom.

Peony care

To ensure your peonies thrive after planting, as well as for many years to come, follow the following three tips.

Add a relatively thin layer of compost over your peonies each spring, along with a layer of mulch (approximately 2 inches deep). Doing so can help control the amount of weeds that sprout in your garden and will help retain the moisture surrounding your peonies.
During the first winter, add 4 to 6 inches of mulch to your garden right after the ground freezes to protect the roots of your peonies.
During dry periods, water your peonies weekly. You’ll know that you’ve over-watered if you start to see water pooling around the base of your peonies.

Cut peony care tips

When buying fresh-cut peonies, look for ones that have not yet begun to bloom. Peonies are cut when the flower is still in a ball shape, so you want them just starting to crack open. This will give you the experience of seeing the bloom opening and, with the proper care, enjoying a few additional days of the peonies’ unique charm.

To get the most out of your cut peonies, follow these four important care tips.

Fill your vase about half to three-quarters full with warm water and floral food according to the packet directions.

Bonus tip: When you buy flowers, ask for a few extra packets of flower food so you always have some on hand at home.

Remove all the leaves that would be below the water line in the vase. Leaves that are submerged will rot, thus creating bacteria that can shorten the peonies’ vase life.

Bonus tip: Make sure the vase is extremely clean, and add a splash of bleach to the water — especially if you don’t have any flower food — before arranging the flowers in it to help keep bacteria at bay.

Using a sharp knife or cutting shears, give each peony a fresh cut, on an angle, before placing it in the vase. How much you cut from the bottom of the stem will depend on the size of your vase.

Bonus tip: Most varieties of peonies have large blooms with multiple petals and can become top heavy. Cutting the stems to make sure the flowers are not too tall in the vase will allow the sides of the vase to help support the stems as the peonies start to open.

Change the water and flower food every three to four days and re-cut the stems at least 1 inch each time.

Bonus tip: Peonies are big drinkers, so check the water level daily to see if you need to add more water. And always check before re-cutting the stems too.

Carly Cushnie’s Celebrations Involve Food, Family…and Moving Furniture

Carly Cushnie and her husband, Oscar Cantu, like to celebrate life. Just check out their hashtag #teamoscarly on Instagram, where’ll you see pics of their colorful, Oaxacan-style wedding in Mexico City, complete with a procession of mojigangas, or huge puppets, dancing in the street, and flowering trees on the reception tables.

They bring that festive energy to their home in Brooklyn, too. There, they throw parties with their daughters, Santiago, 4, and Quincy, 3, that involve cooking, decorating, and dancing in the living room under a disco ball. Oh, and amazing tablescapes at their dinners.

In a past life, Cushnie founded and owned her eponymous fashion line (originally called Cushnie et Ochs). It was a hit with stars like Jessica Alba — the first big celebrity to wear it — Rhianna, Jennifer Lopez, Halle Berry, Eva Longoria, and Ashley Graham. Her styles even found their way to the White House, becoming a favorite of the first lady at the time.

These days, Carly’s life is a bit more subdued but no less fulfilling. Here’s how she and Oscar like to roll.

Do you entertain a lot?

We used to throw big parties in the past, but COVID curbed that. But we have dinners here, and drinks parties. And birthdays.

Do you usually have a theme?

We went to Vietnam for our honeymoon and brought back all these Vietnamese lanterns. So, for one party, we lit the garden with them and did a kind of Vietnamese barbecue, and decorated as such. That was a theme, but it’s not always around a theme — usually we base it around food. There’s something my husband wants to cook, and then we decorate around that.

What about celebrating birthdays?

We normally do a family thing all together, dinner and cake and a little dance party at home. I recently had a big birthday, my 40^th, so I celebrated a lot. We had a party with the girls, then an adults-only party. We moved out all the furniture, and I decorated the house with flowers, a disco ball, lights, and LED balloon thingies that created a bit of sparkle. We kept it simple — no theme, just an old-school house party.

Do you go all out for your daughters’ birthdays?

When they turned 3 and 4, it was the biggest party they ever had. They’re a year and a week apart, March 31 and April 8, so we have a party for them together. The weather was kind of iffy, so we moved the furniture and put a little bouncy house inside. It was kind of perfect, actually, a mish-mosh with a beautiful pink princess bouncy house, “Frozen” birthday cake, Mexican food, and drinks for the parents. And we had a piñata outside.

What’s your feeling about birthday gifts?

We give the kids birthday gifts, but my husband and I don’t do gifts. Instead, we do things for each other. We’ll take a trip or have a beautiful meal, or go to a restaurant, or he’ll cook something super, super special. It’s just about being together.

“In springtime, I love to have blossoms. It’s such a happy feeling — it brings joy.”
Carly Cushnie

Do your kids help with the cooking or entertaining?

We try to get them into food as much as we are; it’s something we love. So, for certain parties, we cook and they help make things. For Thanksgiving, I did the décor and desserts, my husband did most of the main dishes with friends, and the kids were all helping prep or roll the dough and cook. They came to the farmers market with me, laid out the table with things from there. We built a tablescape. They’re part of it.

Tell us about your tablescapes.

I do like to play with a table. I love to have fruits and vegetables or beautiful branches; I prefer low things so you can see and talk to everyone. I like to be inspired. Even shopping online for flowers, I like to see what’s new in and of the season.

In springtime, I love to have blossoms. It’s such a happy feeling — it brings joy. My girls just absolutely adore it.

How do you celebrate Mother’s Day?

I like trees and plants. One Mother’s Day, my husband gave me a big tree; it’s in my living room. For some mothers, it’s all about being by themselves — which I totally get — but I just want to be with my kids all day. Oscar will cook with them and make me something like a nice brunch. Or we’ll go to a restaurant if no one’s having a meltdown…it’s touch and go.

What do you and Oscar do to keep the romance going?

For me, it’s more that he goes out of the way to cook something really special or something he’s never made before. Just the other day, I was actually mad at him, so he made me a dukkah; it’s a Mediterranean dish with toasted nuts and different spices and things. He said, “Am I forgiven?” I was like, “Yes. Thank you for my dukkah.”

When Is Passover?

Jewish holiday Passover greeting card with matzo, seder plate, w

Every year, as spring ushers in sunnier, warmer days and fills us with an overall sense of renewal, people everywhere gather to celebrate a most significant and important holiday: Passover.

Like many other holidays, Passover is a celebration of rebirth, freedom, and gratitude. The story of Passover is one of persistence and bravery, and the holiday serves as a time for reflection as well as one when we remember the resiliency and quest for survival of the Jewish people.

Though it is traditionally a Jewish holiday, more than one in five Americans, recent surveys show, recognize and observe Passover in some form, making it an impactful occurrence for even those outside the Jewish faith.

“Passover is such a preeminent holiday religiously because it reminds us of God,” says philosopher and scholar Steven Katz, Ph.D., a professor of Jewish and Holocaust Studies at Boston University. “It marks the history of the world and the history of the Jewish people. When we celebrate Passover, we’re celebrating God’s power and the power of faith and redemption.”

When is Passover this year?

Passover will occur much later on the calendar in 2024 than is typical. The holiday will begin at sundown on April 22 and end eight days later on Tuesday, April 30, also at sundown.

In general, the holiday can take place anytime during the months of March or April. Its ultimate date is determined by the Hebrew calendar, which is based on lunar cycles — and also impacted by 2024 being a Jewish leap year. Passover typically falls on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Nisan, which is also the first night of a full moon after the spring equinox.

What is the history of Passover?

The epic and harrowing story of Passover (or “Pesach” as it’s referred to in Hebrew) can — and does — fill countless services, speeches, books, and films. Essentially, the holiday is an occasion to commemorate and celebrate the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt (almost 3,500 years ago), as narrated in the biblical book of Exodus.

Moses leads the Jews through the desert, Moses led his people to the Promised Land through the Sinai desert. Religion Bible, History. Escape.

As the story goes, after centuries of suffering and slavery, God sent a prophet named Moses to demand the Israelites’ release. When Egypt’s pharaoh, King Ramses II, refused, a series of plagues was brought upon Egypt, culminating in the 10th — the “death of the firstborn.” To protect the Israelites, families were instructed to mark their doorposts with the blood of a sacrificed lamb so that the Angel of Death would “pass over” their homes — hence the name of the holiday. Ultimately, the Pharaoh relented, allowing the Israelites to leave Egypt. They hurriedly departed, and this marked the beginning of an arduous journey to freedom — one that includes Moses parting the Red Sea to help his people escape from an approaching army and reach safety on the other side of the water.

“Passover is really the moment when the Jewish nation was formed,” Katz says. “It marks the Jews’ exodus from Egypt after centuries of slavery. It’s out of that experience — God’s redeeming the people and then bringing them to (Mount) Sinai to give them the Torah — that the Jewish existence was formed. It’s absolutely fundamental to our history.”

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What is a Seder, and what does it typically include?

During the first two nights of Passover, families host what is called a Seder, or meal, which includes a retelling of the story of Exodus, ritual blessings and songs, and symbolic food and drinks. Typically, one person leads the Seder (the word “Seder” means “order” in Hebrew”), while others also participate and everyone follows along from a book called a haggadah.

“The Seder, or Passover meal, is the most celebrated event on the Jewish calendar,” Katz says. “It’s a very family-oriented, very interestingly constructed, and very happy occasion.”

The Passover meal is filled with traditions. The first, and most important, centers on matzah, a basic mixture of flour and water baked into an unleavened “flat” bread.

“We also sometimes call it the ‘bread of affliction,’” Katz says. “It can’t rise for more than 18 minutes. That’s because the Jews were in such a hurry to run away from Egypt that they didn’t take the time to bake the bread all the way to its normal level. When we eat matzah, it reminds us of the exodus from Egypt in the most visceral and fundamental way.”

Beyond matzah, a Seder menu also typically includes karpas, greens that have been dipped in salt water or vinegar (to symbolize rebirth and hope but also the tears shed to reach that moment); maror, a pungent herb used to represent the bitterness of slavery; beitzah, a roasted or hard-boiled egg that symbolizes spring and the circle of life; and charoset, a paste made of apples and nuts that is symbolic of the mortar the Jews used to build the pyramids.

Beyond the Seder — which happens the first and second nights of Passover — many people do not eat leavened bread for the entire eight days as a symbolic way of recognizing the sacrifices that took place during the exodus from Egypt.

How can you respectfully join in Passover celebrations?

The first step in embracing any holiday or tradition is learning about its history. Katz says to do some research, ask questions, and make a real effort to appreciate the significance of the day.

If you are invited to a Seder, be respectful. Dress appropriately (as you would if you were attending a place of worship), listen actively, and volunteer to help with preparations or clean-up, if needed.

Also, it’s a good idea to show your gratitude in the form of a gift, such as a bottle of kosher wine.

“However, don’t bring other items or foods without asking because you don’t want to introduce things into the home that aren’t allowed during Passover,” Katz says.

You may also want to share a card or a colorful bouquet or house plant, he says. “Something pretty.”

“As a child, I remember my parents used to send pieces of matzah to all the neighbors as a sign of friendship and camaraderie and to acknowledge the fact that we’re all in it together,” Katz adds.

“You can also look for Passover meals that are being hosted at churches or community centers and attend one,” he says. “That’s another great way to make a meaningful, symbolic gesture.”