What Every Mother Needs For Mother's Day

What to get for the mom who has everything, but wouldn’t mind a little something.
For Better or For Worse by Lynn Johnston
For Better or For Worse by Lynn Johnston

For the mom who has everything. For the mom who wouldn’t mind a little something. For the mom who says, come for lunch, but please, don’t bring me anything. For the mom who is far away, out of sight, but not out of heart and mind. For the mom who has never stopped being a mom. For the mom you live with, or for the mom who lives with you. For the mom who is your best friend. For the person who is like a mom to you.

1. For the mom who says, “I would like to spend an afternoon at a luxury spa.”

Spa
Aire Ancient BathsPhoto Courtesy of Aire Ancient Baths

The internationally recognized Spanish wellness brand, Aire Ancient Baths, has opened its signature candlelit bathing rituals in a dramatically reimagined 1912 Edwardian building whose original brickwork, exposed beams and industrial structure have been preserved. Behind the historic facade, the space has been transformed into a quiet, immersive environment designed to encourage disconnection from the pace of daily life. Candlelight, silence and flowing water focus on sensory immersion and stillness.

While floating in a candlelit bath in an intimate space with a century of history, you might feel like you have entered another world. I suggest you ask for the Hydrating Honey Ritual.

2. For the mom who says, “I would love a special Martini before dinner.”

Vodka
Absolut Tabasco Canadian BottlePhoto Courtesy of Absolut Vodka

It’s a marriage made in heaven, and now we wonder, what took so long? ABSOLUT® Vodka and TABASCO® are firing up the spirits scene with the launch of a new spicy vodka. Tabasco was Founded in 1868 on Avery Island, Louisiana, and uses just three ingredients: handpicked red peppers, salt and vinegar. Once mashed together, the red pepper mix is aged and fermented in reclaimed oak barrels for up to three years, creating the sauce's subtle, unique flavour. Absolute Vodka is also made using just three natural ingredients - pristine water sourced from a local deep well, and a proprietary strain of yeast and winter wheat grown on nearby farms. This premium vodka is only distilled in the small town of Åhus in Southern Sweden, using the same continuous distillation process introduced by its Swedish founder, L.O. Smith, in the 1870s. 

Margarita transitions to Vodkarita

1 oz ABSOLUT® TABASCO™
1/2 oz Lime Juice
1/2 oz Agave Syrup
Cajun Spice for rim
Lime for garnish
Chili slice for garnish (optional

1. Rim a rocks glass with Cajun seasoning.
2. Fill a shaker with ABSOLUT® TABASCO™, freshly squeezed lime juice, and agave syrup.
3. Add ice and shake vigorously until well-chilled.
4. Fine strain into the prepared glass over fresh ice.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel and a chili slice.

One Shot Mary

A salted Cherry Tomato chased by a shot of Absolute Tabasco

1 Shot Absolute Tabasco
Half a Cherry Tomato
Flaky Sea Salt

1. Halve a Cherry tomato and dip it in flaky sea salt.
2. Pour ABSOLUT® TABASCO™ into a shot glass.
3. Eat the salted cherry tomato half first, then drink the shot.

3. For the mom who says, “I always wanted to cruise on a lake—or five lakes.”

VICTORY 1 and VICTORY 11 are new and luxurious Great Lakes Cruise Ships. In a ten-day cruise you’ll discover a world of secluded harbors, pristine coastlines, and serene seaways—destinations often inaccessible to larger vessels. The journey redefines comfort and discovery in an All-Inclusive coastal cruising along our five Great Lakes, the storied St. Lawrence Seaway, and the Canadian Maritimes. First, a complimentary one-night stay at a top hotel and seamless ground transfers to your ship.  Live music in the dining room, fine wines, spirits, local beers and specialty coffees, all meals – all included.  This has Second Honeymoon written all over it.

4. For the mom who says, “I want to have an elegant dinner at a grand hotel.”

Reign at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel
Reign at the Fairmont Royal York HotelPhoto by Rick O'Brien @rickettes

Sophisticated Canadiana. From the uniformed doorman to the breathtaking flowering tree in the lobby, every step is an introduction to the elegant comfort of Reign at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel. From sublime culinary classics to reimagined new delicacies, each dish is crafted with artistry, each wine selected with care. All served in a convivial atmosphere where Toronto's best and brightest gather for the moments that matter. Personally, the staff makes me feel like Royalty, and the Chef's divine creations have me thinking of words like “eating beauty.”

5. For the mom who says, “I don’t want anything. Except maybe a diamond bracelet.”

Jewelry
Bracelets by Maadrn Eco-Luxury Jewelry Photo Courtesy of Maadrn Eco-Luxury Jewelry

Designer Mairi Shewfelt of Maadrn Eco-Luxury Jewelry creates stunning sterling silver tennis bracelets with exceptional sparkle that are a true must-have and a beautiful alternative to the high-priced 14k white gold versions. Designed to deliver maximum sparkle and everyday wearability, it looks incredible layered with your favourite pieces or worn solo for a sleek, modern look. The double-security clasp makes it easy to put on and take off while keeping it comfortably in place. Available in 7.5 inches, Solid sterling silver, High-quality CZ stones, 4 mm stone size. 

I find that it’s the perfect addition to any jewelry wardrobe. I have not taken mine off of my wrist since it came as a gift a few months ago. This diamond bracelet is always in good taste—with any fashion look.

6. For the mom who says, “I’d like to have Brunch at one of those cool new resto-lounges.”

Small Talk store front
Small Talk store frontPhoto by Adam Waxman/DINE magazine

Small Talk is the new intimate Ossington resto-lounge, just-opened with a new weekend Brunch on Mother’s Day, just for you. Executive Chef Afrim Pristine, creator of The Cheese Boutique, has expanded his horizons—and we are the beneficiaries. Everything is home-made: from the incredible French baking – to the smoked and cured salmon, to the bagel crisps - and all the sauces, of course. 

The staff is poised, attractive and reflects the delightful décor with smiles, charm and the right recommendations: Croissant Mon Amour with French Ham, Brie, and grilled apple; Bougie Egg Scramby with Comte and Antonius Caviar; Salmon Martini Board inspired by the flavors of a dirty Martini, for example. The cocktail list (alcohol and sans alcohol) offers a litany of refreshing  beverages.  Afrim Pristine has nailed it – again.

7. For the mom who is a connoisseur of fine Scotch and fast cars

Glenfiddich
GlenfiddichPhoto Courtesy of Glenfiddich

Glenfiddich Beyond. Together, Glenfiddich and Aston Martin Formula One™ Team enter their second year of partnership as Glenfiddich introduces BEYOND, unveiling new layers of inspiring storytelling, exceptional experiences, and innovative product releases.

Rooted in Glenfiddich’s pioneering spirit and Aston Martin Formula One™ Team’s drive to look beyond convention, there is a shared commitment to pushing boundaries and forging new paths. 

My “wee dram” of Glenfiddich Beyond tells me that it will please the palates of Scotch lovers and may well earn many new fans,

DINE Magazine Inc.
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