We asked our friend Lauren Nelson of Lauren Nelson Design to share her thoughts on motherhood and her favorite picks for Mother’s Day. Lauren is a celebrated interior designer known for creating spaces that feel collected, personal, and effortlessly beautiful. She’s also a mother of two, and brings the same thoughtfulness she’s known for in her work to her life at home. We’re so happy to share a little peek into her Mother’s Day plans.
"Becoming a mom was one of the most rewarding and humbling experiences of my life. I had always assumed it would come naturally to me. I figured that because I had wonderful parents whom I loved and respected, I'd simply follow their lead and somehow have the whole parenting thing down before I even became pregnant. Ha! Not so easy.
I absolutely adore being a mother to my two girls. It's one of the greatest joys and most defining parts of my identity. But if there's one thing I've learned, it's that motherhood is not a straight road, and it certainly isn't one-size-fits-all. Every day requires a blend of patience, humility, and constant thinking about others — not just in the present moment, but for their future as well. There's a beautiful selflessness to motherhood, but it often means our own needs get placed on the back burner.
Which is why, on Mother's Day, I think the greatest gift is the chance to pause the giving and simply receive. To have a moment where we're not the ones planning, organizing, or thinking about what everyone else needs. Instead, a day to be poured into, celebrated, and to do whatever it is that feels good to us."
"This year, I’m planning to spend the morning with my family, soaking up the sweetness of the day. And then, I'll meet up with a few close mom friends to hike over Mt. Tam to Stinson Beach, finishing the day with a good meal and a glass (or two) of wine. Pretty dreamy if you ask me."
If you're looking for thoughtful gifts for the mothers in your life — or for yourself — here are a few of my favorite things from Elsie Green this year:
Medium Serving Bowl - Chamois
We host a lot, and I'm always reaching for a beautiful serving bowl. The earthy tones and shallow profile of this one are just perfect.
Moroccan Tote
I bought one while traveling in Morocco and it quickly became my go-to for everything: work, farmers markets, beach days. It’s structured enough to handle everything from fabric samples to fresh produce.
Pair of Twist Beeswax Tapers
Candles instantly change the vibe of a room, and I love the color palette and texture of these twist tapers.
Vintage Carafe with Tumblers
Vintage pottery has a special place in my heart. This piece has the most beautiful shape and finish — and it's signed by the artist.
Etched Champagne Coupes
Because sometimes you just need a reason to pop some bubbly. These make any moment feel extra special.
Here's to celebrating all the beautiful, messy, miraculous parts of motherhood — and to taking the time to truly enjoy the day.
