We’re full of fantastic suggestions like strawberry picking, making our delicious lemon squares, a charming afternoon tea, and even a curated list of thoughtful gift recommendations to make Mother’s Day Weekend easier! Mother’s Day is a time to honor the incredible women in our lives, and we have 3 fantastic recommendations to make it memorable. We’ve got some easy ideas to help celebrate mom’s! First, we suggest kicking off the weekend by taking mom strawberry picking, then embrace the elegance of a traditional tea party, complete with homemade treats, finally we’re helping you plan ahead with our curated collection of gifts for all those special moms. 🍓 Embrace the Tradition of Strawberry Picking A wonderful springtime tradition is going strawberry picking. It’s a wonderful way to spend quality time together and gather fresh berries for homemade shortcake. If you’re in the Charlotte, NC area, here are some local farms to consider: Lineberger’s Maple Springs Farm (Dallas, NC) Family-run operation offering seasonal pick-your-own produce and tractor rides, plus a market and a playground. Wise Acres Organic Farm (Indian Trail, NC): A family-owned organic farm offering U-pick strawberries and a delightful farm experience. Carrigan Farms (Mooresville, NC): Known for their authentic U-pick strawberry experience, this fifth-generation farm is a local favorite. Patterson Farm (Mount Ulla, NC): Offering a variety of produce and a fun farm atmosphere, perfect for family outings. For those outside the Charlotte area, many regions have local farms that offer strawberry picking during the season. A quick online search or visit to a local farmers’ market can point you in the right direction. 🍋 Sweet Treats for a Memorable Tea A great way to pamper your mom is with a relaxing cup of tea. Why not plan a simple afternoon tea. Plan to brew her favorite tea and serve a few sweet treats. We think a memorable tea isn’t complete without an array of delectable sweets – either homemade or store bought are absolutely fine . Here are some of our favorites: Lemon Squares: These tangy delights are a staple in our kitchen. The buttery crust paired with a zesty lemon filling creates a perfect balance of flavors. (recipe below) Mini Strawberry Shortcakes with Homemade Whipped Cream: Made with freshly picked strawberries, these shortcakes are a seasonal favorite. The juicy berries and fluffy cream atop a tender biscuit or angel food cake make for an irresistible treat. Chocolate Delights: Whether it’s rich brownies, truffles, homemade twix bites or chocolate covered date caramels – a touch of chocolate adds indulgence to any spread. 🎁 Thoughtful Mother’s Day Gift Ideas Complement your afternoon tea with a thoughtful gift complete with a custom Mother’s Day gift tag . Here are some curated ideas to inspire you: Spa Gift Basket Blooming Plant or Bouquet of Flowers Gift Card for a Favorite Restaurant or Local Activity For more inspiration, explore our comprehensive Mother’s Day Gift Guide This Mother’s Day, let’s celebrate with elegance, warmth, and a touch of tradition. An afternoon tea filled with yummy treats, the joy of strawberry picking, and a thoughtful gift can create memories that last a lifetime. Here’s to making every great mom feel cherished and loved.
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What to Pack in Your Travel Day Bag: Our Must-Haves for Effortless Exploring…
There’s something so invigorating about setting off on a day of adventure in a new city—whether you’re wandering through a historic district, hopping on and off public transit, or sipping coffee while people-watching in a charming café. And while we know not everyone loves carrying a bag around all day (we hear you—shoulder fatigue is real!), we’ve found that having the perfect day bag filled with a well-thought-out organizer and essentials is the key to stress-free exploring. The number one question we’re asked when we travel is… “Who makes your bag and what’s in it?” So here it is… This stunning bag is by Malene Birger. It’s organized with an insert we adore and filled with essentials we don’t want to leave home without!!! Much like a well-stocked kitchen cabinet or a beautifully organized craft station, a thoughtfully packed day bag ensures you’re prepared for whatever the day throws your way—from a spontaneous photo op to a sudden rain shower or a moment of much-needed rest and refreshment. At ShookHill Secret, we strive to be ‘stylishly prepared’ – yes, it’s a thing. Our go-to travel day bag isn’t trendy for trend’s sake—it’s practical, versatile, and filled with all the little things that help a travel day run smoothly. Whether you’re heading out for museum-hopping, shopping or exploring, here’s what we recommend keeping in your day bag: Our Essential Day Bag Packing List: Pen and pencil in a case – You never know when you’ll want to jot something down, make a quick note, or fill out a postcard for a loved one back home. We love a chic little case to keep them tidy. Travel cards in a cute beaded pouch – Whether it’s your metro pass, room key, city attraction card or even a deck of playing cards, it helps to keep everything together in one sweet, stylish pouch without taking out your wallet. Antibacterial wipes & hand sanitizer – A quick clean-up is always a good idea, especially before grabbing a snack or after navigating public spaces. Glasses, reading glasses, and sunglasses – Don’t leave home without them! We recommend a slim case that keeps everything safe and scratch-free. Wallet with cash (or euros), credit card & ID – Even if you’re relying on digital payments, it’s wise to have some local currency and an official ID on hand. Mini emergency kit – Bandaids, ibuprofen, cough drops, and other little remedies can be a lifesaver when you’re out and about. Portable charging block – Essential for keeping your phone charged when you’re snapping photos, navigating maps, or posting updates. Tissues – Whether it’s a stuffy museum or a breezy boat ride, tissues always come in handy. Ole Henriksen lip gloss – A touch of self-care on the go. We adore the hydration and hint of shine it provides. Simply mints – Perfect for after lunch or a quick refresh between stops. Phone & AirPods – Obviously! For music, navigation, and snapping those dreamy travel shots. Laptop & cords in protective case (optional) – If you’re working while traveling or just love writing down thoughts in the moment, a compact laptop and charger are great to have. We love this protective case and matching cord bag. Compact umbrella – Check the forecast before heading out and if there is a chance of rain, pop this in your bag in addition to a waterproof jacket to avoid the day being a washout. A few pro tips: We love using a structured tote (our favorite is a Malene Birger bag with an organizer insert) or crossbody with interior organization, lightweight materials, and always a zippered closure for safety. Keep heavier items (like chargers and laptops) toward the center or bottom for better balance. And don’t forget—empty your bag out at the end of the day, wipe it down, and restock it for the next adventure. It’s a little ritual we’ve come to love. Whether you’re heading out for a day trip or embarking on a full itinerary, having your go-to bag packed and ready makes travel smoother, stylish, and a lot more enjoyable. Looking for more travel inspiration and style insights? We share our tried-and-true picks in the Travel section of our site. Whether you’re looking for new destinations, planning tips, or packing essentials, we have compiled our favorite experiences and advice. Stay tuned for our next adventure! Happy exploring, –The Shookhill Secret Team