On the eve of Mother’s Day, do something unique for Mum by helping her to realise her unrequited dreams. As the woman who devoted her life to caring for your family, the prospect of reviving her career may come across as a daunting challenge. Help Mum to quell her reservations and jump-start her ambition with a full-day career workshop at The School of Life, founded by philosopher and bestselling author Alain de Botton.

Workshops are mostly full-day (from 9.40am to 5:00pm) or in the evening (6:00pm to 9:00pm). She will emerge with a deep understanding of her talents and passions, as well as fresh ideas on where she can find fulfilling work.

If Mum is a fit and active early riser, you can participate in the Melbourne Mother’s Day Classic Local run (or walk). This year, the event combines the flexiblity of a virtual fun-run or walk with the community atmosphere of a physical event. Depending on how fast and far her legs can take her, you can choose from 5km, 10km, 20km or any distances that you are comfortable with. Walk, jog or run, it's also up to you! 

Alternatively, let the mother-of-honour sleep in, but not for too long. Once she is up and about, begin the day with an energising brunch or lunch, where she can bask in the glow of your undivided attention.

To set the mood, book a restaurant following the criteria laid out by Broadsheet Melbourne: a conducive spot for intimate conversation, impeccable service, and classic cuisines (preferably with a dash of creativity). Try The European at Spring Street, which “mines the traditions of rural France, Italy, and Spain,” and serves breakfast till 4:00 p.m. on weekends. Or wander into the heart of Melbourne’s “tastiest street,” a.k.a. Flinders, where you can experience the “purity of Japanese food… with a uniquely Australian sensibility” at Kisumé.

To browse more special-occasion restaurants, consult Broadsheet’s curated restaurant list.

Satiate your mother’s intellectual curiosity with a visit to a Readings bookstore near you; it is award-winning, and has been hailed as one of the world’s best independent bookstores.

For the fashion maven mother, take her shopping on Gertrude Street, where local designers hold court, or to High Street, where she can find a red-carpet worthy outfit for her collection. Match this with an accessory that makes a bold statement; Lucy Folk at Crossley Street carries a Mother’s Day range inspired by classical mythology.

For the tree-hugging mum, the Cruelty Free Shop in the hipster Fitzroy neighbourhood will align with her values. (Find a shop to suit her unique style and interests on TimeOut.)

Dessert and drinks are essential for any celebration. At Bibelot in South Melbourne, pair sparkling wine with decadent tea-time treats for the perfect afternoon perk-me-up.

For an afternoon of high tea and art, join Paint With Me's Mother's Day High Tea Sip & Paint class and get artistic with Mum while sipping bubbles and tasting savoury and sweet treats!