Natalie Oldfield, author of Love and Food at Gran’s Table, has shared her catering tips for mother’s day gatherings.

1. Combine your world with your mum’s. Choose a couple of dishes that perhaps your Mum used to make for you and then something new you want to share from your world. It is always fun to introduce new flavours and ideas to the older generations for them to enjoy as well as honouring them with something you know they would love.

2. Be prepared. Making sure you organise and prepare in advance as much as possible so that on the day you haven’t spent the whole time in the kitchen – you get some time to spend with your family as well.

3. Variety is the key. I am a sweet tooth so would probably share more sweet than savoury, but getting a balance here is always good, but play to your strengths – after all you are doing the cooking.

4. Have fun in the kitchen. If you have children try and include them in the cooking process. Starting to create those memories at a young age will be something they will never forget.

5. Cook with love. My gran always said to me ‘It’s not what you do but how much love you put into the doing’ so before I start preparing food I always reflect on who I am cooking for – in this case it is for your Mum so take a moment to think about her before you start your cooking – and put plenty of love into what you are doing. She will know – mothers know everything.

Oldfield has also kindly offered two copies of her new book, valued at $59.99 each, to giveaway to Spice readers. All you need to do to do is email egardiner@intermedia.com.au and tell me in 25 words or less why your Gran was the best cook. Winners will be notified by return email. Competition closes 5pm 17/04/15.