Spring is in the air. Flowers, trees
and plants are about to burst into bloom, and that means Mother’s Day is just
around the corner. Hence, the gift of a little greenery seems the natural way
to honour mom on her special day. That being said, botanicals can fluctuate
wildly in price; So it pays to be smart about your purchase and shop around.
Where
to Buy:
·
Floral
boutiques can be quite tempting. Arrangements are ultra-luxurious and buying is
a snap (particularly for out-of-town gifts). However, know that you will pay a
hefty premium for the convenience.
·
Shopping
online is an excellent alternative. There’s a plethora of less expensive
options for moms near and far -- and you can surf the net in your PJ’s.
·
For
large or multiple purchases, floral wholesalers are the perfect choice. Starting
prices are very reasonable and you’ll be rewarded handsomely for volume buys.
·
Most
grocery and convenience stores stock a fabulous array of plant life, at
rock-bottom prices. Some even offer free delivery.
·
Do
you have bushels of blossoms languishing in your own back garden? Why not put
them to good use? No gift is more personal than flowers you grew yourself.
·
Wildflowers
are the sentimental choice and a lovely option, especially when money is tight.
What
to Buy:
·
If
mom has a green thumb and prefers a gift that lasts, potted plants are a great
choice. Additionally, many flowers, herbs and luscious greenery are versatile
enough to be enjoyed both indoors, and out.
·
Floral
arrangements are best for those less herbaceously inclined. They provide
immediate gratification, require minimal work and are perfect pick-me-up for
apartment or condo dwellers.
·
Dried,
fabric or plastic flowers are out of fashion at the moment, and not great feng
shui. Stick to live plants for the occasion. Remember, Mother’s Day gifts should
never be ‘practical’ in nature.
·
No
matter what you purchase, stay within budget. Buy bunches of simple flowers, or
a few exquisite blooms – depending upon her preference. Be sure to choose
favoured colours and bright, jaunty arrangements suitable for the occasion.
Presentation:
·
Offering
flowers wrapped in paper is acceptable, but be aware that it’ll require more
work on the recipient’s part (finding a suitable vase, trimming stems and
arranging).
·
A
more considerate and impactful way to present a bouquet is to pop them into a pretty
vase or container:
o
You
can find surprisingly impressive vases at the dollar store, for a mere pittance.
o
Pick
up a stash of inexpensive vases for year-round use at discount outlets or
warehouse sales.
o
Discover
unique or unusual containers at flea markets, or garage sales. Such vessels
allow for more innovative and customized arrangements.
o
Recycle
your own superfluous vases, without shelling out a dime. Just be sure they’re
clean and intact.
·
Whether
you’re presenting flowers in a simple vase, or an extravagant jardinière,
arrange them beautifully. Insert stems one at a time, trim on the outside.
Carefully balance flower types and colours, and ensure your bouquet doesn’t
appear sparse.
·
A
pretty ribbon can go a long way in providing the final touch. Coloured tissue
and cellophane help create an even more stunning display. All these can be
purchased from your local dollar store.
·
Create
floral gift cards from business card stationary. Office supply stores have
appropriate designs for hand-written messages, or you can custom-print on blank
business cards.
Pretty blooms provide a classic and
greatly appreciated gift on Mother’s Day. It’s the ideal way to thank mom for
all that she’s done for you, throughout the years; But it doesn’t need to be
extortionate to be impressive. With a little thought and effort, you can dazzle
and delight, without going in the red.
For more
timely and ingenious money-saving tips, please follow http://champagnelifebeerbudget.blogspot.ca/.
