Looking for simple ideas for your next Mother’s Day dinner decor? Here’s the table and ideas that we used to decorate for Mother’s Day.

Two round, crusty sourdough loaves with decorative leaf-shaped scoring on top sit on a wooden board, placed on a light gray marble surface. The bread is dusted with flour.

For everyone who sent me a word of encouragement.

For everyone who listened to my nervousness.

For everyone who believed in me and helped me test the food out, and helped me plan the menu, and helped set the table, and entertained guests and celebrated all the small victories of planning a dinner party when you are still a baby chick of a cook?

WE DID IT.

Y’all.

Y’all.

Y’all.

I still remember when Denton asked me what I wanted to do for Mother’s Day and I said to him that he would never believe it in a million years. I wanted to cook dinner for my mother and my mother-in-law and I wanted him (along with Courtney) to help me. Everyone was up for it and everyone chipped in and worked together and guess what?

It was epic.

And wonderful.

And it went off (almost)without a hitch.

And in amazing, wonderful news, I have pictures and ideas, and decor for all of us.

It was too much to fit into two posts, so I’m posting all about the celebration with the menu and then I’ll share the recipes in the next post.

Are you ready?

Let’s go.

Mother’s Day Dinner Decor

Mother’s Day dinner menu on a light blue background with white daisies, listing appetizer, main courses, and dessert, surrounded by floral borders. Text is elegant and dark, with recipe credits under each dish.

Elegant table setting with white chairs, floral plates, blue-patterned napkins, gold cutlery, and drinking glasses garnished with lemon slices. A floral centerpiece decorates the table.

// block print table runner //block print napkins//block print placemats (larger print) //wavy melamine plates //gold silverware //

The menu

I sent out an Evite to each of the guests of honor.

Then we started to plan the menu.

After we figured out what we were serving, Denton designed and printed out a copy of the menu for each of our guests.

Courtney suggested the BEST chicken recipe I’ve ever tasted with a balsamic glaze and brussel sprouts and sweet potatoes (recipe coming tomorrow).

An older woman in a pink and green floral dress looks down at a decorated table while holding a white sweater. A younger woman with long blonde hair stands beside her, smiling.

The rest of the menu came from an old cookbook that I found up at Cape Cod.

I made the recipes from my great aunts to surprise my mother (here’s her reaction to the surprise).

I’ll show you pictures of the cookbook tomorrow, too.

A rectangular platter with carrot sticks and grape tomatoes arranged as flowers with broccoli florets as grass. Tongs are on the side. Decorative blue bowls and plates are in the background.

A group of people gather in a bright, elegant living room. Two people stand, one playing guitar, while others sit on sofas, chatting. Floral arrangements and patterned decor create a cozy, cheerful atmosphere.

A man in glasses sits on a striped armchair playing an acoustic guitar in a bright, cozy living room with wooden floors, floral decor, and large windows.

A platter with vegetables arranged to resemble flowers; carrot sticks and grape tomatoes form petals, celery forms stems, and broccoli florets act as leaves on a white plate.

The appetizers

Everyone arrived at 5:30 for appetizers and musical entertainment, while we were fixing everything in the kitchen.

My husband played the guitar, and my niece Mia played the piano and sang one of her songs she knows, “O Holy Night.”

Nothing like a little Christmas music on Mother’s Day. 🙂

Right before dinner, my husband and I sang to the mothers.

The appetizer plate is an idea I saw somewhere. It’s SO EASY. You just cut vegetables into flowers and add a little dip.

A white dining table set with blue and white plates, gold cutlery, crystal glasses with lemon wedges, floral napkins, tall lit candles, and a centerpiece of red, white, and blue flowers.

// block print table runner //block print napkins//block print placemats (larger print) //wavy melamine plates //gold silverware //

Elegant dining room with dark blue walls, white trim, and large windows. A white table is set with flowers and candles, surrounded by white chairs and striped accent chairs. A crystal chandelier hangs above. Patterned curtains and rug complete the look.

A blue and white floral napkin folded into the shape of a rose, placed on a white plate on a table set with elegant white dishware.

//block print napkins//

A glass of water with a lemon slice sits on a patterned tablecloth next to a white vase holding green leaves and light-colored hydrangeas. A small card with part of a floral design is visible in the corner.

A dining room with navy blue walls, a white table and chairs, floral centerpieces, upholstered chairs with patterned pillows, a crystal chandelier, and light curtains framing a window. Blue artwork hangs on both sides of the window.

A white plate with a beaded edge sits on a blue and white floral placemat. A blue floral napkin, rolled into a rose shape, rests on the plate. Gold-colored fork, knife, and spoon are placed on either side.

// block print table runner //block print napkins//block print placemats (larger print) //wavy melamine plates //gold silverware //

A table set for a meal features white chairs, a floral tablecloth, white plates with blue napkins, glassware, vintage brass candlesticks with lit candles, and vases filled with colorful fresh flowers.

// block print table runner //block print napkins//block print placemats (larger print) //wavy melamine plates //gold silverware // battery operated candles //

Elegant dining room with a white table and chairs, blue and white patterned rug, striped accent chair, crystal chandelier, blue walls, and large windows with patterned curtains. The table is set with flowers and candles.

// block print table runner //block print napkins//block print placemats (larger print) //wavy melamine plates //gold silverware //

The table

I had the table all set and ready before everyone got there.

I went with blue and white block print table linens and added fresh flowers from Trader Joe’s in vases for the centerpiece.

The napkins are folded into roses and set at the corner of each plate.

Here are the sources for the table:

Elegant dining room with dark blue walls, white trim, and large windows. A white table is set with flowers and candles, surrounded by white chairs and striped accent chairs. A crystal chandelier hangs above. Patterned curtains and rug complete the look.

A group of people sit around a decorated dining table with plates of food, candles, flowers, and glasses. One person serves bread while others smile and converse in a bright, cheerful room.

The celebration

And then?

It was time to feast.

We plated the food in the kitchen and served the mothers.

Then there was dessert and coffee.

(total aside: I made these tea bags for my mother with little pictures of our family at the end of the string, but I forgot to take pictures.)

There was laughter and conversation and stories as we celebrated two of the most incredible women in our lives. These women have been here for every step of our journey. They are the heart of our family. They have encouraged us and lifted us up and celebrated all the milestones at every step of the journey (and they are both about to celebrate with us when the twins graduate on Saturday).

They say that it takes a village to raise a family.

And they also say?

That every village needs a really good meal.

Good thing the villagers understood the assignment. 🙂

PS I know that Mother’s Day has come and gone—but you can always pin for next year. 🙂

A white rectangular platter, perfect for Mother’s Day Brunch Decor, displays carrot and cherry tomato flowers with broccoli stems. Silver tongs rest on the edge, while blue bowls sit nearby atop a patterned tablecloth.

disclosure: affiliate links are used in this post.

Want to know how to decorate your home for free?
Click here to get my FIVE BEST secrets.

Posted On: May 13, 2025

Written By: KariAnne Wood

Comments

  1. Image for Connie Knight Connie Knight

    It all looks so beautiful and delicious, and I know everyone had a wonderful time! Remember: there’s only ONE “first time” for something, so THAT pressure is off forever…host on! Congratulations and Happy Mother’s Day belatedly…

    Reply
  2. Image for Lorri Lorri

    Karianne...i knew you could do it... you have done so many things already...You apply your knowledge to something that you really want to do...then do it!! That bread looks lovely... that is something I would like to learn but then I Iwould have that bread in the house and have no control...lol

    Reply
  3. Image for Barb E Barb E

    Oh Karianne! You not only “pulled it off”… you Mastered it!! Everything looked beautiful and delicious. So many personal family touches - loveliness at it’s best!

    Reply
  5. Image for Sheryl McLaughlin Sheryl McLaughlin

    What a wonderful special day and meal! Everything you do…is wonderful! Thank you for sharing your inspiration with us always!

    Reply
  7. Image for Victoria Victoria

    You did it, girl. It's a wrap! Looks like a professional decorator and caterer were involved. Even musical entertainment! What a lovely way to celebrate the moms! Even the napkin fold was so unique and special, as was tour vegetable art!. EVERYTHING, PERFECT. A 3 generation gathering with such sweet memories for all to cherish. Giving of yourself is a great kind of giving. So... another party for graduation? Sit down, buffet? Spread your wings, little chick! You'll add catering to your expertise soon.

    Reply
  8. Image for Kris Kris

    I enjoyed the picture of your sweet mama. I'm guessing she didn't want her picture included, but it was a highlight for me. What a lovely gift of a beautiful experience for her and your mother in law.

    Reply
  9. Image for Katherine Katherine

    KeriAnne, WOWIE, is the best word I can think of at this moment. You thought of everything and then some. The flower appetizer plate was adorable, the printed menu, and giving credit to the person’s recipe, so thoughtful, the napkins shaped into a rose, the table setting, your talented husband playing the guitar, and Mia playing the piano and singing. The meal looked so good, the sourdough bread, the tea bags, with the picture at the end. I’m in awe of you and everyone that contributed their talents. You created such treasured memories for your mother (nice to see her looking at the beautifully printed menu). I say move over Ina Garten, and Martha Stewart. I think you ALL nailed everything, yes it takes a tribe. Your tribe is stellar, and so full of love. I look forward to seeing your recipes. Thank you for sharing your joy on Mother’s Day.

    Reply
  10. Image for Donna Donna

    What a special evening! So much talent in one family. I think it was so wonderful that you all did that for the Mothers. I had no doubt everything would turn out perfect. Thank you for sharing.

    Reply
  13. Image for Jodena Beale Jodena Beale

    KariAnne What a beautiful gift. Those veg plates are just so pretty and creative. Everything was gorgeous. Beautiful. I hope everyone enjoyed it as much as you did. So pretty. Just so pretty and I am sure delicious.

    Reply
  14. Image for Lisa Lisa

    What a wonderful day! Everything looks so lovely! I’m sure the moms were delighted to be treated so special. 💕

    Reply
  16. Image for Debbie Debbie

    Thank you for sharing what was truly a memorable day for all of you! LOL in our family if you do something once, it’s now considered a tradition. So perhaps this will be a new tradition for your family.😉

    Reply
  17. Image for Heather Heather

    The menu sounds delish and I love the flower appetizer - how special. You made it festive and the greatest gift you gave was yourself. I want to hear more about the teabags, maybe a tutorial at a later date. Happy belated Mothers Day

    Reply
  19. Image for Lauren S Lauren S

    The table looks beautiful and all the food looks yummy! One question, KariAnne. How have you managed to raise four children and not have been a cook?!! :)

    Reply
  20. Image for Kim Kim

    I'm planning a huge dinner for my inlaws. They all say I am the best chef in the family but this 1 is huge. I love your vegetable platter, I think I will include it in with my appetizers. Here is my menu. I havent made any of this yet so I am netvous. Spring rolls from our local Thai reastaurant, (I have served them before and our family all loves them) they come with the most delicious peanut sauce. Pizza dip the kids love that and I will try to duplicate your veggie platter. Our entree will be grilled ribeye with grilled shrimp and lobster sauce stacks. You put the steak on the bottom, grilled shrimp surrounding the steak and make the lobster with lobster tails, and smother it with the lobster sauce. Mississippi mud potatoes, and asparagus augratin. For dessert, my husband and I went to Dennys for lunch and had the most decadent dessert we have ever had. Believe it Dennys!!! It was a skillet chocolate chip cookie hot and delish with carmel, and fudge sauce, ice cream, Whip cream on top of it all. Do you think I should serve maybe a wedge salad before dinner? I never really know how to plan these events. My in-laws don't stand on formality they love everything. That is my saving grace. Oh my husband bought me a scone pan for my birthday (he asked what I wanted) when I told him I wanted a scone pan from amazon he is like cant you be like other wife's and ask for jewelery.(LOL.) This will be my first attempt at making cheddar and green onion scones. Much love Kim XOXO

    Reply
  21. Image for Kathy Kathy

    What a lovely idea! You have such a kind heart. Enjoy those mothers while you can. We were fortunate enough to have both of our mothers for Mother''s Day until about three years ago. We felt so blessed. I love that you even provided music for them! So sweet! I kind of wish I could have heard the music! P.S. I loved the napkins so much I had to order before they sold out! (I hope this will be a tradition for your family for many years to come!)

    Reply
  23. Image for Michele M. Michele M.

    WELL DONE, KA!!!! Isn't it addicting and fun to do????? And trust me when I tell you that it gets easier and easier the more often you do it. Keep at it. Your tablescape is gorgeous - hope you add it to Between Naps on the Porch for Tablescape Thursday link party. Everyone needs to see that. I ADORE your new blockprint napkins and tablerunner - sure finished that table perfectly. CUTE idea on veggies. Can't wait to see the recipes. Really awesome party. And I love seeing your mom. And her dress was adorable. LOVE the music. LOL'd on Christmas tune. Well done, all of it and I am so happy for you! ♥

    Reply
  24. Image for Marlene Stephenson Marlene Stephenson

    You did a great job for those wonderful mother's in your life. The table, food, and love that was shared what a wonderful memory for all.

    Reply
  25. Image for Diana Diana

    A job well done KariAnnen and beautiful table, I'm sure it was appreciated and will be remembered for a longtime. Excellent helpers too.

    Reply
  26. Image for Angela Boswell Angela Boswell

    You made a Keepsake Memory!..... Not only did your Mother see the love, but your whole family will remember the beautiful way you said "I love you".... Hope you don't mind if I borrow your idea for next year!

    Reply
  27. Image for Carol Carol

    What a special person you are to do this. It will be remembered for a long time and what a special thing for your daughters to see. Enjoy!!

    Reply
  30. Image for Olga Haberl Olga Haberl

    Wow! What a feast! I’m sure it was even more beautiful and special in person. You honored your mom and mother in love. A special day, indeed. Happy Mother’s Day to you also. 💐💕🤗

    Reply
  32. Image for Patti Patti

    I’m not being unkind but I wonder how you raised 4 children to adulthood without learning how to cook? And, having thrown more dinner parties than I can count before my kids graduated high school, how did that social grace not become part of married life? Just genuinely interested! Looking back I’ve spent most of my life cooking elaborate meals for people! 😳

    Reply
    1. Image for KariAnne KariAnne

      Oh friend! I ate at my mother’s house and ate out and ate at ball games and fast food and a zillion other places besides my kitchen! And then there was always macaroni and cheese and gas station pizza. :) happy day, karianne

      Reply
  34. Image for Debra Lange Debra Lange

    I love your idea, recipes from your family with new ones! I can’t to see the recipes tomorrow!!! I’m a table setter too, I love the creativity put in to make the table beautiful!!! Thank you!! ♥️

    Reply

Comments are closed.