There are few certainties when it comes to motherhood, but we are pretty confident in knowing that as much as moms adore their children, they also need a well-deserved break from time to time. Mom dates provide the perfect opportunity to reset, bond—and do a bit of venting—away from the little ones. But don’t let your girl time get routine. Spice things up with our suggestions for creative and enjoyable activities other than simply meeting up for cocktails and appetizers at the same old spots.
Creative Release Needed
Channel your artistic side at the Mermaid Factory. You and your mom friends can choose a handmade mermaid or dolphin to paint as you please and accessorize with a gaggle of glitter, shells, beads, tulle and more. You will leave with your masterpiece to display at home and possibly a few more irresistible gift items. And did we mention complimentary wine is included? 919a W. 21st St., Norfolk and 510 Laskin Rd., Virginia Beach. MermaidFactory.com
Moms About Town
If your version of mom time means dressing up and feeling fancy with your best pals, make plans to head to downtown Norfolk to visit the latest hotspot The Main. Order a few swanky cocktails to sip on the rooftop bar of Grain while you reminisce a bit about your pre-kid days. Then head to dinner or check out a fall performance at the Wells Theatre, such as this season’s show Men Are From Mars – Women Are From Venus. The Main, 100 E Main St., Norfolk. TheMainNorfolk.com; Wells Theatre, 100 East Tazewell St., Norfolk. SevenVenues.com
Ladies Who Luxuriate
Children can be tiring, to say the least. So we don’t blame you if you and your ladies wish to do nothing more than relax during your rare “me time.” To pamper in style, start with an upscale brunch at Blue Talon Bistro, filled with comforting French fare, and then head to The Spa of Colonial Williamsburg and choose from a full menu of amazing treatments like the Lavender Lemongrass Stress-Reducing Scrub or Detoxifying Herbal Wrap & Hot Stone Massage. Lunch, champagne and more can also be arranged for groups. Blue Talon Bistro, 420 Prince George St., Williamsburg. BlueTalonBistro.com; The Spa of Colonial Williamsburg, 307 South England St., Williamsburg. ColonialWilliamsburg.com/Explore/Spa
Outdoor Adventures, Please
If you are seeking an exciting challenge more invigorating than chasing your kiddos around the playground, convince your fellow fit mommas to sign up for a SUP Barre class, which is a combination of stand-up paddle boarding, yoga and barre (ballet-inspired workout) done on the serene water in First Landing State Park. SUP Barre also offers Beach Barre, SUP Yoga, stand-up paddle lessons and a SUP Sunset Booze Cruise. Single class sessions and group reservations are both offered, and boards are available for rental. Locations are at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront at First Landing or along Shore Drive but vary depending on class. Check the website for more information. SUPBarre.com
