mothers day Archives - Kate Waterhouse

How to set the perfect Mother’s Day table

30th April, 2021

Mother’s Day is always such a special occasion in our household, and I always like to get together with my family to honour my mum and celebrate the wonderful mother she is. One way we like to do that is to enjoy a delicious breakfast together. Our preferred menu? Pancakes and waffles and lots of it.

I always like to dress the table for the occasion and add some simple design flourishes that will turn Sunday breakfast into something befitting Mother’s Day. I usually choose to do something pared back yet impactful, because I don’t really want to spend the entire morning fussing around with setting the table. That said, I’ve found there are some easy, but striking decorations that will really set the mood.

Just add flowers

I don’t think a table is ever really set without some gorgeous blooms to add a splash of colour. And the thing with flowers is, you can go in so many different directions, from bright and vibrant, to understated and classic. I personally like to embrace a lot of striking hues as I think it really lifts the scene, and turns a table at home into something special.

Add a delicious scent

Whenever I’m entertaining I always have candles burning as I find it’s such an effective way to create a great atmosphere, and makes any space so warming and inviting. Scent is such a powerful thing and for events, it’s always great to add a scented candle as it will instantly transport you to that time and place whenever you smell it again. This year, I’m embracing this beautiful limited edition Glasshouse Candle aptly titled, An Ode to Women, as Mother’s Day is a lovely reminder of the beautiful women in my life, from my mum, to my gorgeous daughters.

Keep it simple

Any good design is about keeping things simple, with a tight edit of beautiful things, and that includes setting a table. I went for simple tableware as I didn’t want it to overwhelm. I don’t think you can really ever go wrong with crisp white plates, linen napkins and placemats and interesting design details, like wooden napkin rings. It all works together to create a mood that’s sophisticated and elegant, yet is still comfortable enough that people feel welcomed and at home.

Generously portion serving plates

Don’t neglect your plating! Part of setting a nice table is to ensure that the food is celebrated. I usually like to keep platters or plates piled high as I think it looks more inviting. Creating that abundant effect is always a critical part of setting a table that has people wanting to sit and enjoy themselves.

Layer your table

I think it’s all about working with different layers when it comes to setting a photogenic table. Consider the base, which includes things like placemats, cutlery, tableware and glassware. Then consider what goes on top, from napkins to serving platters, then look to the decorative touches. This includes things like a delicious scented candle, to assorted florals in a range of different colours.

This post was produced in collaboration with Glasshouse Candles

Photography: Ashleigh Larden

Fashion, Shop

Mother’s Day gifts that have caught my eye

26th April, 2021

If there’s anyone who deserves spoiling, it has to be all the hardworking, eternally busy mums out there. And with Mother’s Day just around the corner, I’ve been on the look out for a gift for my mum and in the process, I’ve seen so many gorgeous things that would put a smile on any mother’s face. I’ve actually ended up pulling together quite the wish list for myself too! So, if you want to spoil mum, here are some great options to consider.

A great straw bag is something that can be worn to death throughout summer but can still be used in the cooler months to add a touch of softness to a look.

This top is such a good piece to mix and match with a great pant or denim. But it’s also part of a set, so you can consider getting the matching pants for a truly polished finish.

Black pants… how can you really go wrong? These are great when paired with the matching top but would also be such a versatile staple to have on hand.

Giving something luxe like a great lipstick is always one way to spoil any mum, at an affordable price. I particularly love the finish of this Clarins lipstick, plus the gold tube just feels so special.

Gorgeous earrings never go astray in anyone’s wardrobe. Love the combination of gold and pearl and the modern design. A great way to add a fun touch to any oufit.

I love the roominess of a good tote, but the textured finish of this is a great way to add an element of interest to a look.

Gorgeous skincare is also one of my gift go-tos, and having used this divine double serum for awhile I can attest to how good it is. It always leaves my skin feeling so nourised.

For the modern, fashion forward mum, this Dion Lee corset tank should definitely be high at the top of the gift list. This top would work beautifully with jeans as well as pants, or even a skirt.

Candles are always a special addition to any home, so when you come across an elegant, minimalist beauty such as this one by Lumira you have to snap it up. Plus the scent is amazing!

I live in slippers throughout winter to keep toasty and warm, so I love the look of these. They’re just the perfect addition to any ensemble during the cooler months.

Simple hoop earrings are a fave of mine as they’re such an easy way to dress up a look without being over the top. I like the sculptural feel of this pair.

Fun frames are a great option for gifting as they are a great style staple and will no doubt get plenty of use. I love this light pair by Oroton.

Floral dresses are key during spring, but I’ve found them to also be a good way to brighten up any look during autumn/winter. Loving the colour combination of this outfit.

I adore the shape of these sunglasses as they just have that extra edgy touch that can really elevate a whole look. Plus at such an affordable price too.

I’ve written about this particular top before but wanted to share again as it really is such a great white shirt. The sleeves, the cut, the button, it’s just perfection.

Another pair of great sunnies that would be welcomed in any mum’s wardrobe. I love the elongated frame for something different. Plus, sunnies are key for hiding any sleepless nights with kids!

This Anine Bing jumper just screams cosy. But it definitely doesn’t scrimp in the style department. I love the colour too as it’s so versatile.

If you want to go the whole way, go for a matching set. These pants would be so cosy for a wintery day indoors, or could be dressed up with sneakers and a trench for an up-to-the-minute look.

Fashion, Shop

Spoil mum during this iso Mother’s Day

2nd May, 2020

While Mother’s Day this year won’t be quite the same as previous years there’s still no reason why you can’t make mum feel special and show her your appreciation—even if it may have to be done remotely.

With online shopping still very much open and going strong, it’s a great way to ensure that you can still give mum a nice treat on Mother’s Day if you can’t be there with her in person.

So to help you get your gift search underway I’ve rounded up some great picks that are sure to impress. And whether you’ve got cash to burn and really, really want to spoil your mum this year, or you want to send a small but super thoughtful gift, there are plenty of gift options here that will fit the bill.

Fashion

My tips for throwing the perfect Mother’s Day celebration

7th May, 2019

When it comes to Mother’s Day I find that sometime it’s often nice to bypass the busy restaurants and cafes and host a great brunch or lunch at home. My mum and sister-in-law both live close by (my parents actually live in the same apartment building!) so it’s really great to get everyone together at home and put on a lovely spread. Whilst I love entertaining, I don’t like having a stressful time prepping for it so I’ve learned how to make the process a whole lot easier. Here are some of my tips.

Prep early

I don’t like having to make a mad dash to the shops on the day of any event I’m hosting so I like to do things in advance. I’ll often buy all my groceries ahead of time so the fridge is stocked with everything I need so all I have to do is assemble everything on the day.

Go for a simple menu

I favour a simple menu whenever I’m entertaining. I’ve found that if I’m hosting a brunch or lunch that putting together platters of food is far easier than having to whip up an entire meal. I’ll often do a sweet and savoury platter, so lots of fresh fruit and a cheese platter. It’s also easy to serve up things like pastries or delicious gourmet sandwiches. I find you can still have a really abundant looking table this way but you’re not having to slave away in a kitchen for hours.

Ensure drinks are pre-chilled

It’s easy to forget to put drinks in the fridge on the day so I make a point of just popping everything in there the day before. I like to have both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks so I’ll always have juices and water and some beverages chilling. For any Mother’s Day event I always make a point of having something like rose, wine or champagne. I’ve worked with Sterling Vineyards in the past to throw a party and find their range to have some good options.

Dress the table

Part of any event is a really inviting table so I make sure that I put in the extra effort to dress it up. I’ll always have bunches of fresh flowers scattered on the table and also throughout the house. I also like to work with different types of flatware, dinnerware and glassware, mixing and matching pieces to work to a particular colour scheme or theme. I find having different platters of various shapes and sizes add an element of interest to the table. I think the aim is to always make the table look abundant so it’s inviting and pleasing to the eye.

Create a relaxing ambience

It’s always good to have a welcoming environment whenever you are entertaining and I’ve found a great way to do this is to have a beautiful scented candle burning. There’s just something about an inviting scent throughout the home that makes it a place people want to be. Also I like to have some relaxing music playing softly in the background to help lift the mood and add a fun vibe to the occasion. They’re easy and simple things to do but they can make all the difference.

Fashion

My favourite things to do/receive on Mother’s Day

3rd May, 2019

Mother’s Day is just around the corner and it’s the perfect time to spoil your mum and show her just how much you appreciate her. In case you’re at a loss for what to get her this year, I’ve decided to share my favourite gift ideas — things I’ve got my own mum in the past and things I’ve received. These five things have always been a success on the gift front and I’m sure they’ll put a smile on your mum’s face too.

Spa Treatment

You’d be hard pressed to find a frazzled, busy mum who wouldn’t welcome being gifted a relaxing massage. I’ve always been really excited to be given a massage as a present as it means I can have a little time to myself. Plus not only is it usually something that most mums wouldn’t regularly purchase for themselves but it’s a luxe way for them to unwind.

My fave: A warmstone massage from Gillan Adams, Turramurra

High Tea

Going to high tea is one of my favourite things to do, especially with my mum. I think it’s a lovely way to spend Mother’s Day and a great idea for a gift as you can enjoy a nice meal and spend some quality time together too.

My faves: Burnt Orange and Gunner’s Barracks, Mosman

Perfume

I have a weakness for beautiful fragrances so I’m always thrilled to receive a new addition to my perfume wardrobe. The great thing about being gifted perfume is that every time you wear it you’re reminded of the person who gave it to you. I’m sure any mum would be happy to receive a lovely new scent this Mother’s Day.

My faves: Viktor and Rolf Flowerbomb and Jo Malone Peony and Blush Suede

Books

I always enjoy looking for books to give to my mum and I myself love receiving new tomes to add to my collection. I’m a fan of biographies so I always gravitate towards that genre, and I’m particularly keen to read Michelle Obama’s book Becoming.

My faves: Becoming, Michelle Obama and The Audrey Hepburn Treasures

Personalised Gifts

Adding a personal touch to a present is always a guaranteed way to ensure any gift is a success. I think creating a crafty gift is always lovely when you’ve got younger kids, and they really enjoy making it too. And given we all have so many memories stored on our phones I think anything photo related is always such a beautiful present, especially these days when it’s so easy to print or create something special with just a few clicks on your mobile.

My faves:

Mini Mothers Day Kit, Hand in Hand Activity Kits

Image via Hand in Hand Activity Kits website

Picture Postie photo gifts

Picture Postie do great personalised photo gifts

Fashion, What I Wore

Mother’s Day with my girls

12th May, 2018

I can’t believe it’s almost Mother’s Day again! I am so incredibly thankful to be a mum to two beautiful little girls. Sophia and Grace are both growing up way too fast (seriously where has the time gone?) but with each day it’s such a joy to see their little personalities coming through. They’re both so kind, caring and smart, and best of all as sisters, they couldn’t be any closer. I know most parents will probably agree but I can’t imagine what life was like without them.

For me, having daughters is a lot of fun. From tea parties to ballet classes to days spent at the park, I always have a ball when I’m with my girls. Being heavily into fashion I won’t deny that I also love being able to dress them up. Even at such a young age they’re already developing such strong opinions about what they like (Sophia would be in her Emma Wiggle costume everyday if she could!) and what they don’t like. It will be nice to see how this changes over the years and I’m sure I’ll lose half my wardrobe to them when they’re a bit older!

Every Mother’s Day I reflect on what the past year has brought and whilst we have our challenging days, I think every day with the girls is so enriching and in turn has made me a better person. It’s made me appreciate the little things. I can see how excited they are about the world around them, things that I probably would have taken for granted before. It reminds me of the sheer possibility of what lies ahead for them and it brings a smile to my face.

It’s a privilege to be able to guide Sophia and Grace through life. To show them what’s right and wrong. To raise them to be strong, confident, capable women who know their worth and won’t settle for anything less. I hope that I can be to them what my own mum is to me. My mum is my role model and a woman I look up to each and every day. If I come even remotely close to that I know I’ve done my job right as a mother.

To all the selfless, hardworking mums out there I hope you have a wonderful Mother’s Day!

Credits: Kate (#1): Dress; Shoes (#2) Jeans, Jumper, Shoes Sophia: (#1) Jeans, Jumper, Shoes (#2) Jeans, Sweater, Shoes Grace: Dress, Shoes, Cardigan, All from Seed

Photography: Sophia Athas

This post was created in collaboration with Seed

Fashion, Lifestyle, Shop

Luxe Mother’s Day gift ideas that will spoil any mum

4th May, 2018

They support us endlessly, are always there to listen and can always be counted upon to give great advice— take a bow mums of the world! My mum is without a doubt my hero and has shaped who I am today so I love spoiling her on Mother’s Day. It’s my little way of saying thanks for everything she does for me and my family every single day of the year. If you’re looking for the ultimate gift to give to your mama, these luxe picks are guaranteed to put a smile on her face.

Simone Rocha bow embellished satin slides

Vibrant red slides, with a too-cute-for-words bow adornment will please any fashion loving mum.

Saint Laurent heart coin purse

Adorable and practical. A winning combination!

Gucci GG bloom wallet

This beautiful wallet is one that any mum will be excited to carry around.

Gucci Diamantissima Collection watch

I’m a big fan of gorgeous timepieces. I’m sure this sleek style by Gucci would be well received.

SK-II R.N.A Power Face Cream

Beautiful skin is the gift that keeps on giving. And using this SK-II cream everyday will feel like a mini spa treatment every time.

The Cook’s Atelier

A cookbook filled with delicious recipes that will excite any foodie.

Gucci crystal embellished logo hair clip

A touch of luxury that’s understated and well, oh-so practical too!

Alexander McQueen printed silk chiffon scarf

This beautiful bold scarf will make for the perfect finishing touch to any outfit.

Alexander McQueen gold faux pearl brooch

Accessories don’t get much more luxe than this. A statement-making piece for the mum who loves her accoutrements to take centre stage.

Melissa Joy Manning 14-karat gold earrings

Simple and stunning, these will get a daily workout.

Samantha Wills heart bracelet

This bracelet will please any minimalist loving mum.

Skin travel set

Does your mum travel a lot? This set comprises of understated wardrobe basics that can easily be mixed and matched during a getaway.

Lifestyle, Shop

My Mother’s Day Gift Guide at QVB

4th May, 2017

Mother’s Day is just around the corner and there’s no better time to spoil mum and show her how much you appreciate everything she does. Whether your mum is fashion obsessed, loves to be pampered or enjoys simple creature comforts such is sitting back and relaxing with a warm cup of tea, below I’ve rounded up my favourite gift picks to help put a smile on her face on May 14. All of the products are available to shop at the QVB as well as a range of other beautiful and unique gifts for all types of mums.

Gifts for a Practical Mum

Kikki. K Boxed Card Set

If your mum is the type who loves to be prepared at all times this beautiful box of gift cards will ensure she’s ready for every occasion thrown her way.

Aveda Healthy Hair Pack

Who wouldn’t want to be gifted amazing tresses? This pack will help mum to keep her mane in beautiful shape.

Gorman Check It Throw Rug

Any interiors loving mum will appreciate a cosy throw rug to add to her home.

T2 In The Mood Indigo Trio

Afternoon tea is made all the more enjoyable with pretty crockery from which to enjoy it from.

T2 Tiny Tin of Manjari Tea

If your mum is a tea aficionado introducing her to an exotic new brew will definitely earn you major brownie points.

T2 In The Mood Indigo Storage Tin

This tin is a picture perfect way for mum to store her favourite tea.

Gifts to pamper mum

Haigh’s Cinema Mixture

You can never go wrong with gifting chocolate of any kind, especially when it’s this delicious.

Koko Black Mother’s Day Gift Box

Nothing beats a box of tasty sweets and these milk, dark and white chocolate pralines are guaranteed to please.

Country Road Animal Print Pyjama Set

Beautiful sleepwear will ensure that mum enjoys a great night’s rest in style.

Aveda Light The Way Candle

The spice Madagascar-inspired aroma of this candle will fill any home with a delicious scent.

Fornasetti Ortensia Candle

Hand-crafted and housed in a gorgeous ceramic vessel, this Fornasetti Ortensia candle is a truly luxe gift for a truly special mum.

Oroton Estat Large Beauty Case

This sleek and classic beauty case will house mum’s cosmetics in elegant fashion.

Gifts for a Stylish Mum

Country Road Soft Trench

A trench is a style staple so any fashion-loving mum will appreciate having this classic piece in her closet.

Jo Mercer Scuff Slippers

Slip-on metallic loafers is a statement shoe that is both chic and comfortable.

Helen Kaminski Fur Felt Hat

Help make mum’s winter look complete with this beautiful felt hat.

Helen Kaminski Abigale Bag

This on trend bucket bag combines form and function and is the perfect carryall.

Bally Suzy Bag in Rosehaze

Compact shoulder bags are very of the moment, especially when in the season’s major hue of a soft dusty pink.

Lovélle Ring

Jewellery is always a gift that’s sure to impress but even more so when it’s such a striking design.

This post has been created in collaboration with QVB

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Mother’s Day Gift Guide

2nd May, 2016

Mother’s Day is the perfect time to spoil Mum. Here are some of my favourite gift options to treat her this year.

Simple, elegant and personalised-what more could Mum want? In fact it’s so good you may even want to pick up a necklace for yourself!

Sleepy Jones’ ‘Marina’ Pyjama shirt makes catching some shut-eye all the more chic. The classic red and off-white tent stripes and neat French seams add a special touch.

For the mum who loves her accessories to make a statement look no further than Victoria Beckham’s ‘Supra Kitten’ sunglasses. The marbled frames give it a modern touch and the cat-eye style is particularly flattering on round face shapes.

This pouch is perfect for off-duty days or carrying to the beach. Saint Laurent’s pouch is crafted from hard-wearing cotton-canvas and is also quite roomy so it will easily fit any essentials.

A cup of tea is made all the more enjoyable with this gorgeous porcelain teapot which is perfect for celebrating and entertaining in style. It’s even adorned with 24-carat gold which makes it all the more luxe.

A lovely — not to mention roomy — tote is always a wardrobe essential. This charcoal tote from Witchery is perfect for winter with its felt finish.

If you’re after a gift that will last the test of time you can’t go wrong with a pair of pearl studs which will forever be in style.

Jo Malone captures the essence of autumn with the smell of just-ripe pears and white freesias with amber, patchouli and woods. This is my favourite scent and one that I always have in my handbag with me.

If your mum is a jetsetter the Luxe City Guide box set comes with easy-to-use travel guides about Hanoi, Hong Kong, Singapore, Bangkok or Tokyo. A must for any ardent traveller.

As a mum, I can speak from personal experience that a caffeine fix is an essential on those super-hectic-I’ve-barely-slept-a-wink days. A Nespresso machine is great to have in the kitchen as it’s almost like having your very own barista at home.

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