Give Her Something She Really Wants This Mother's Day

Do you know the most common response women give to "What do you want for Mother's Day?" 

I know this answer from an episode of "Family Feud," so I'm certain it is very scientific. Out of 100 women polled, the most common answer to the question, "What do you want for Mother's Day?" was, "A day off." So before you go planning activities for the family, ask what she really wants. Then, use these tips to plan just the perfect day.

For the mom who wants the day "off" ...

Start with breakfast at home from . Pick up a tray of Creme Brulee French Toast or Egg Fritatta. By picking up breakfast instead of making it, you will not make the kitchen dirty, allowing mom to truly relax. Pick up a cute "Mom" cookie while you're there.

Want to spoil her a bit more? Consider buying a spa treatment at . While the location is not running specials for Mother's Day, if you "Like" their Facebook page, you may find yourself with an extra 10 percent off any treatment for mom.

If she's more of a "purse and shoes" girl than a massage girl, hit up , the beachy, relaxed yet high-style boutique on the corner of 12th and Highland. Mom will love the simple "initial" necklaces featured in the front display. If you want to spend a little more, consider buying her a great clutch or scarf. Just avoid anything that needs a fit, as this is better picked out by the woman herself.

For active moms, consider giving a yoga-centered gift. is offering a $150 "Surf, Soothe and Soul" package that includes a stand up paddle session, a massage and a yoga class. sells adorable gift certificates with complimentary towels mom will love.

For the mom who wants to share the day ...

If mom really does want to fill the day with family and fun, is a good place to start. Here, kids with their moms practice free on Mother's Day. No need for a babysitter if you want to enjoy some prana.

After, head to where moms will receive a free mimosa and flower with brunch. This relaxed environment is low-stress for families, and the staff accommodates young children well.

To create a lasting memory, consider visiting in downtown Manhattan Beach, where there will be no studio fee all day Mother's Day. Head over to for "The Mother of All Brunches" after making pottery. Shade will host the brunch from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., offering a $45 per person menu including a gift for all mothers. Kids 10 and under cost $25 each. Call for reservations: 310-406-6801.

Grand brunches will be held throughout Manhattan Beach. These include:

• -  Serving a special Mother's Day brunch menu in addition to the regular lunch and dinner menus.
• Lido Di Manhattan - Serving brunch on the patio. Complimentary mimosas for moms. A la carte lunch menu available or Mother's Day special. 
• - Prix Fixe Brunch from 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; $22.50 per person plus tax and gratuity. Includes two-course prix-fixe menu with brunch and lunch choices; includes coffee, tea and soda PLUS a flower garden where kids can make a special bouquet for mom! For kids 10 and under, Tin Roof will offer a "pint-sized" buffet for $8 per child plus tax and gratuity. They will host a TRB Sangria & Mimosa Bar for $8 per drink.
• (The Belamar Hotel) - Mother's Day Brunch will be a $24 prix fixe menu from 10:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. The menu includes pastries, fruit, dessert and a choice of one entree. The brunch excludes tax and tip. 

When celebrating mom this weekend, remember to make the day about her. Keep the hassle to a minimum, keep the house clean and keep the kids calm. If you can do this, mom will appreciate any gift or activity you plan.