Article by Maloree Murphy

Photos by Lovely Hitchcock

For a long time, Mother's Day felt more exhausting than anything else. I wanted to celebrate my mom, my mother-in-law, and friends who are in the thick of raising kids. But I also wanted someone to celebrate me. Sound familiar? 

A few years ago, I started hosting a brunch the weekend before Mother's Day for all the women I want to celebrate. We eat, we laugh, we catch up. Then on the actual day, I do whatever I want. Sleep in, stay in my pajamas, let someone else make the coffee. Everyone wins. The mamas in your life get a whole event, and you get a day that actually feels restful. Here is everything you need.  

Drinks  

Set up a simple drink station and let everyone help themselves. A mimosa bar is always a hit. Put out prosecco, orange juice, and a fun option like mango or grapefruit juice. For non-drinkers, sparkling lemonade or a pitcher of water with cucumber and mint is always pretty and refreshing. Coffee and tea are a must. Keep it self-serve so you can actually enjoy your own party. 

Food Made Simple  

Overnight Brioche French Toast Casserole 

This one comes together the night before, bakes up golden and custardy, and fills your kitchen with the best smell, no standing over a hot griddle while your guests are already having fun. 

Ingredients 

•      1 loaf brioche bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (day-old works perfectly) 

•      6 large eggs 

•      2 Cups heavy cream 

•      1/2 Cup whole milk 

•      1/3 Cup granulated sugar 

•      2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract 

•      1 teaspoon cinnamon 

•      Pinch of nutmeg 

•      2 Tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces (for the top) 

•      Powdered sugar, maple syrup, and fresh berries for serving 

Directions 

1.    Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Arrange brioche cubes evenly in the dish. 

2.    In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth. 

3.    Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread. Press down gently so every piece soaks it up. 

4.    Dot the top with butter pieces. Cover tightly with foil and refrigerate overnight (or at least 4 hours). 

5.    When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake covered for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake another 20–25 minutes until puffed and golden. 

6.    Dust with powdered sugar and serve with warm maple syrup and fresh berries. 

Sausage, Egg & Potato Breakfast Casserole 

Every brunch needs something hearty. This one is filling and comforting, and it can also be prepped the night before, so the morning stays stress-free. 

Ingredients 

•      1 Pound ground breakfast sausage 

•      1 bag (about 20 oz) frozen shredded hash browns, thawed 

•      8 large eggs 

•      1 1/2 Cups milk 

•      1 1/2 Cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided 

•      1/2 Cup sour cream 

•      1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 

•      1/2 teaspoon onion powder 

•      Salt and pepper to taste 

•      2 green onions, sliced (for garnish) 

Directions 

1.    Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. 

2.    In a skillet over medium heat, brown the sausage, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess grease. 

3.    Spread the hash browns evenly in the bottom of the prepared dish. Layer the cooked sausage on top. 

4.    In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in 1 Cup of the cheddar. 

5.    Pour the egg mixture over the sausage and hash browns. Top with remaining 1/2 cup of cheese. 

6.    Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, until the center is set and the top is golden and bubbly. 

7.    Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot. 

Simple Decor  

You don't need a Pinterest-worthy setup. You just need flowers. Grab a few bunches at the grocery store the night before your brunch. Tulips, ranunculus, and eucalyptus are a beautiful spring combination. 

Easy Gift 

A small succulent or potted herb at each place setting is such a sweet touch. Find them at a local nursery, hardware store, or even the grocery store for just a few dollars each. Tie on burlap, tuck in a handwritten tag, and you have something that feels personal without any last-minute panic. 

Originally printed in the May 2026 issue of Simply Local Magazine

Never miss an issue, check out SLM's digital editions here!  

related articles: