by Matt Lipford

Created on: May 19, 2009   Last Updated: May 21, 2009

In order to create the perfect Mother's Day brunch, you need much more than a mere working knowledge of how to cook. You are your mother's creation - her work of art. In order to reflect this profound insight back, you need to create an environment that exudes colors and textures. Like the perfect sculpture, try to produce a visual work of art that invigorates both her sense of sight and texture. Mother's Day is the day that the special woman who brought you up is to be acknowledged and honored, so make sure the brunch is special and personal. Just as your mother created you, craft for your mother a brunch that is also a work of art.

First, let's talk ambiance. Your mother deserves the best you can afford, so start out with some of her favorite flowers in a glass vase. This is always beautiful, and it adds so much color and delight to the table. If you can, try to set the table outdoors, or at least in an area where the sunlight will shine on the flowers and reflect through the glass vase. The effect is simply stunning. Also, I suggest using your best china and silverware, and a clean, uncluttered table cloth. White, for me, works best, because it matches my Mother's values and idea of what is beautiful. Also, white works as the perfect canopy to contrast the variety of colors I use. Of course, you must match your own mother's aesthetic values to you setting, but for the sake of highlighting the principles of color, I suggest to keep the table cloth pattern free.

To continue the theme of color, start out the brunch with a variety of fresh fruits. Choose fruits that your mother loves, but at the same time, try to use colors that represent the whole spectrum of the artist's palette. Grapes, strawberries, sliced kiwis, orange and apple wedges all add beautiful color and contrast with each other. Arrange them on a large tray so that each color value is highlighted. This still-life image is striking in beauty, and your mother will admire your effort for years to come.

Your mother is acutely aware of your abilities - especially in the kitchen. If you're not a pro, just do your best. Scrambled eggs can be spruced up with a blend of red and green bell pepper cubes. Also, instead of using plain toast, the simple English muffin adds a feel of elegance to the whole plate. If your mother likes meat, ham is easy to cook, and you can find it readily sliced at the store. If possible, grilling the ham steak so that you can come away with clean grilling lines also adds to the textural effect of the breakfast, and adds a feeling of professionalism. Garnish your plate with a tomato wedge and sprig of parsley, off to one side. This stylish technique allows the colors to dance together in perfect harmony.

In essence, what ever you do will be appreciated, especially if you put some time and effort into the brunch. Use your imagination and sense of color and beauty to bring out the best in what you have. Even if you are all thumbs in the kitchen, by creating the perfect environment, your mother will surely know she is loved and admired.

Learn more about this author, Matt Lipford.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.