With Mother’s Day less than a week away, it’s time to finish up your shopping and gift wrapping. Here are a few tips and ideas to make mom feel extra special this Sunday, May 12.

Clean-burning comfort
Founded by mom-entrepreneur Gail Harris in 2016, Cozy Wicks is a hand-poured candle company made with 100% soy wax and a 100% cotton wick. The Owings Mills creator came up with the clean-burning candle idea after realizing how much regular candle smoke impacted her mother’s respiratory condition. These natural candles are infused with vegetable-based fragrance oils and essential oils, making them environmentally safe, stress relieving, and great for people with respiratory problems. Cozy Wicks currently offers 18 different scents, with the most popular smells being Sangria, Twilight, Breathe, Beloved, Lemonade, Unwind, and Mojito.

Axe throwing adventure
Feeling adventurous? You Bet Your Axe, a recreational axe throwing facility, is perfect for those looking for a competitive challenge or a unique Mother’s Day outing. The Elkton minority- and women-owned business is a member of the World Axe Throwing League and also offers walk-in hours from Wednesday to Saturday. Keep an eye out on Facebook for a Ladies Night event in early June, where the top three axe throwers win a designer handbag.

Make a statement
Speaking of handbags, Baltimore-based entrepreneur Ameenah Yasmin creates custom statement clutches and accessories through her NinaB1951 bag business. From leopard and camo print, to denim and fringe, there’s something to match every stylish mom this Mother’s Day. Shipping is free on Etsy and prices range from $29 to $75.

Seafood Sunday
Take mom out to lunch at one of Southern Maryland’s best seafood restaurants. Dine right along the waterfront and dig into some of the Chesapeake Bay’s finest. Try Stoney’s at Clarke’s Landing, a seafood house overlooking the Patuxent River in Hollywood, or Captain Billy’s Crab House, located in Popes Creek on the scenic Potomac River. Be sure to call ahead for hours, daily specials, and reservation information.

Brewed to perfection
Experience nearly 200 locally-brewed beers from more than 40 breweries throughout the state at this year’s Maryland Craft Beer Festival. Held May 11 at Carroll Creek Linear Park in Frederick, this downtown hot spot has tons of surrounding restaurants and shops to keep you occupied between taste tests. The festival also features food, crafts, and live music for the whole family. All proceeds benefit the Brewers Association of Maryland.

Bonding time
Remember one last thing when it comes to Mother’s Day—it’s about more than spending money. The best thing to give mom is a day full of quality bonding time. Take a stroll through Annapolis’ Quiet Waters Park and have a picnic on the grassy park land. Browse local farmer’s markets in your area and try out some never-before seen treats from dozens of small businesses. Make great memories, take plenty of pictures, and cherish your day together.

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