10 Perfect Mother's Day Marketing Ideas For The Restaurateur

Although Mother's Day is not a federal holiday we feel like everyone should celebrate that special woman.  The woman who took care of you or who takes care of your little ones.  The one who deserves appreciation for all the different job roles she may need to be that day.  This Holiday is for the Mothers, mother figures, including grandmothers, great-grandmothers, stepmothers, and foster mothers.  If someone could relate to what a restauranteur needs do in one day it would be someone who has fulfilled this roll and knows that 'multitasking' is an understatement.

From the United States Census Bureau - There is approximately 85.4 million mother's in the United States!  That is a lot of marketing opportunity, so get ahead of the curve and make sure people remember to come and spend it with you.

Now let's talk about the top 10 ways to market your establishment and make them feel appreciated for all they do.

 1. Throwback Mommy and Me Contest:
Everybody loves to have their 5 seconds of fame.  Throw a selfie contest of your customers and their mothers to help generate a share of voice on your social media.  People can post a picture of themselves and their mothers with a #mommyandmethrowback or #mothersdaybusinessname and you will pick one winner to come enjoy Mother's Day Dinner or Brunch with you for free. 

2. Get creative with prixe fix menus:
Special prixe fix menus are a great way to go on Mother’s Day. This is a great way to help keep the kitchen in tip top shape for a busy day.  Introducing a specialized menu for all of your customers with specific dishes and signature cocktails will help decrease confusion in the kitchen servers and bartenders.

3. Turn Mother’s Day into an annual brunch event:
Mother’s Day is notorious for brunch. Make this a once a year over-the-top special event.  You can even make it exclusive to customers on your mailing list.  Another reason for them to make sure they sign up!

4. Offer Fair Prices:
With restaurants from all over marketing for the same holiday we want to make sure you offer a fair yet profitable price point.  Remember families are going to be dining at your establishment and price can play a lot into where your customer decides to go.

5. Bring in live entertainment:
Ambiance is everything!  Set a nice relaxing mood with a Jazz band, spice it up with some Latino flair, or add some humor with a Comedian.  Everyone loves to have a good time, give them an all-in-one package they can't refuse!

6. Be prepared to accommodate children and older adults with special needs:
This is a family event!  Expect elderly people and children.  Offer Senior Citizen discounts and a kids menu for all to enjoy.  Being well rounded in this industry and accommodating to your customers needs is a must.
 
7. Add Mother’s Day décor touches:
Again, Ambiance!  Some easy and cheap ideas on how to spruce up the establishment without breaking the bank.  Want more ideas?  Click here to help the creative juices flow!

8. Introduce a signature Mother’s Day cocktail and desserts:

Celebrating Mom's everywhere should come with a signature cocktail or dish.  Make this you special or signature item that people can get for a lower price. Want to see more on signature cocktails and foods?  Click here to see what others are doing!

9.  Have Online Ordering?:
Simplify the gift search by creating a Facebook Album of items you sell.  Moms can share these with their loved ones to throw a small hint on what they could use this year.  It also gets your name out there to hundreds of the users' friends. 
     
10. Give them a gift for joining you:
At the entrance, as a welcome, give to each lady one flower, complimentary glass of Champagne, free gift cards, free chocolates, or 20% discount as a gift for all their hard work and effort. A sure way to bring a smile to a mother's face.  Always be sure to brand that personal item with your restaurant’s logo and name to reinforce future brand awareness.

Written By: Colleen Leonardo