One family I know celebrates Mother’s Day every year by setting up long tables and inviting everyone from second cousins to close friends and church members. It’s a festive occasion punctuated by cheerful laughter and old family stories. The tradition always includes dish after dish of beautiful, gourmet food that is savored for hours on end.

As the afternoon comes to a close, there is a special Champagne tradition they observe. Someone pulls out a few bottles of good bubbly and serves it in antique flutes picked up throughout the year at various estate sales. Toasts are given and then the guests retire to their own homes, each with a crystal flute for a memento of the special day.

For your own Mother’s Day celebration, set the table with pretty spring linens, fresh flowers, and crystal.

In the weeks leading up to your event, collect something thoughtful and special - like the Champagne flutes - to send home with your guests. Above all, try some French, spring-inspired for a menu sure to please everyone. Bon appetit!

More Mediterranean Recipes for Mother’s Day:

• Greek Recipes for Mother’s Day Breakfast or Brunch
• Spanish Mother’s Day Brunch Recipes

Fruit Salad Photo: R. Chidambaram