As Mother’s Day approaches

FLOWER shops and spa owners have reported brisk business this past week in the run- up to Mother’s Day celebrations tomorrow. The spa owners said gift packages were well received by customers since these packages catered for different budgets and consumer choices.

A spokeswoman at Sabrina’s Flower and Gift Shop in Valpark Plaza said exotic flowers such as tiger and calla lilies were proving to be popular choices for this year’s Mother’s Day. The official added that chrysanthemums were regarded as “too common place.” “We find they are fed up seeing those,” the official said. “Fruit and wine baskets are done by order but people were interested in mostly flowers,” the official added.

The flower specialist said two types of spenders had emerged in the run-up to tomorrow’s celebration of mothers — those spending under $100 and those spending over that amount. For under $100, buyers can expect to get chrysanthemums or carnations or an exotic flower with some fillers.

Last minute shopping is expected for Mother’s Day. Orders for flowers started early at Avionne’s Floral Delights and “picked up” on Monday. The big sellers this year, Avionne’s officials said are the vases with an assortment of flowers. These start at $125. Gift baskets containing flowers and fruit, wine or cosmetics are available at a range of prices. Shiela’s Flower and Gift Shop in Marabella has gift baskets from $75 and upwards. The buyer can choose from a range of wines, chocolates and snacks for the basket. Delivery is also offered but two days’ notice is necessary.

The Face and Body Clinic at San Fernando is offering a head to toe package for $580 with a facial, manicure, pedicure, and massage. Gift vouchers are valid for one year from the date of purchase. The Chere Mere Spa at Trincity Mall has been completely booked up to today. Packages comprise of manicures, pedicures, massages, facials and waxing. They start from $165 and go up to $670. Mother’s Day is also about getting moms out of the kitchen and giving her a sumptuous meal whether home cooked or at one of the many restaurants across the country.

Batimamzelle restaurant has a three course menu costing $300. The main course offers diners a choice of fish, chicken, lamb or pork for their main course. The cost includes sparkling wine, house wine, coffee, tea and a service charge plus VAT.

While inside the restaurant is fully booked for Mother’s Day, space is available outside from 1 pm on Sunday.

Soongs Great Wall, San Fernando is hosting its annual Mother’s Day Buffet at a cost of $225 VAT inclusive. Apart from the wide range of Chinese dishes, hampers have been prepared for mothers. There will be live entertainment and gifts for mothers. Joseph’s Restaurant has an a La Carte menu which offers a choice of one of three appetizers, and a main course choice of chicken, lamb, salmon fillet, fillet mignon, lobster or shrimp. Patrons have a choice of dessert. Lunch will be served from 11.30 am to 2 pm.

“Mother’s Day” sales are being promoted at jewelry, furniture and appliance stores trying to take advantage of the sentimentality of the day.