It's time to treat mom

Whether it’s taking them out to brunch, giving them a card and candy, sending them flowers or treating them to a spa day, mothers deserve to be treated just a little more special on Mother’s Day. Here are some events and gift ideas from area businesses that will make Sunday, May 9 a day to remember.

For chocolate lovers

Peterbrooke Chocolatier in Winter Park knows how much moms love chocolate. Offering several custom chocolate molds, and six or seven kinds of made-to-order baskets, Kevin Ray, owner with his wife Jami, said they are always ready to personalize anyone’s order. From fresh hand-dipped strawberries to, pre-packaged chocolates lining the shelves, he said, “There’s something for everyone. But on Mother’s Day, mom loves chocolate.” Prices range from $10 to anywhere around $250 depending on the quantity of custom orders, while pre-packaged goods are $10 to $100, Ray said. Peterbrooke Chocolatier is located on 300 S. Park Ave. Call 407-644-3200 or visit www.peterbrooke.com to order chocolaty treats.

Build a card

Offering children the chance to show their appreciation for mom on her special day, The Maitland Public Library invites children to get creative and put on paper their love for mom. As part of their second Saturday program starting at 4 p.m. on May 8, the library invites children of all ages to write, draw and decorate special messages and greeting cards to mom. Open to all ages and free to the public, the event will also include stories and music about moms. Jonathan Dolce, youth services librarian, said it’s a fun, family afternoon that brings children and their moms together. “It’s all about celebrating mom on her special day,” he said. The Maitland Public Library is located at 501 S. Maitland Ave. Call 407- 647-7700 to learn more.

Brunch time

Instead of bringing mom breakfast in bed, why not take her out to brunch for the whole family to enjoy? Park Plaza Gardens, located at 319 S. Park Ave. is offering a special pre-set brunch menu priced at $49.95 per person, where mom can dine on a three-course brunch full of all-time favorites such as eggs Benedict and French toast while sipping free-flowing mimosas, said Lindsey Evatt, hostess. “Every year families like to take their moms out and do something special, and this is a great way to start off the day,” she said. The Park Plaza Gardens also offers a Mother’s Day pre-set dinner menu if brunch isn’t mom’s thing. Both menus are online at www.parkplazagardens.com. The Sunday brunch hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. To make reservations, call 407-645-2475.

Eats and a flick

Like Singing in the Rain? The Enzian Theater in Winter Park does. Offering a classic movie, live entertainment, mimosas and brunch at the Eden Bar, located at the theater, Enzian invites moms and families who love movies on May 9. Guests will arrive and receive their complimentary mimosa as they listen to the musical stylings of The Cook Trio and mingle, then filter over to the buffet area entering the theater to watch the movie, Jordana Meade, marketing coordinator, said. It’s not your usual buffet, where you eat and run. “Here, the atmosphere is live and breezy. You’re open to travel in and out of theater as you will and linger around at the Eden Bar after the movie to socialize and enjoy the afternoon.” The adult ticket price is $45, member price is $42.50 and children age 12 and younger is $20. Doors open at 11 a.m. The film starts at 12:30 p.m. For more information on price packages or the event itself, call 407-629-1088 or visit www.enzian.org for complete details. The Enzian Theater is located at 1300 S. Orlando Ave. in Maitland.

Bedazzle your footwear

Hosting a shoes and jewels workshop for moms and daughters, The Maitland Arts Center brings together two things mom loves: family and shoes. The event at 231 W. Packwood Ave. called Mommie and Me will be held from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, May 8. Taught by artist Arlene Kartak, participants will need to bring a pair of shoes of their choice, and any will do. All shoes are welcome, said Ann Colvin, in charge of education and gallery tour information for the center. Paint, glitter, baubles, glue and other materials will be provided to decorate the shoes and make wearable art or a fun sculpture with a shoe base. Cost of this workshop is $25 for non-members and $20 for members. For more information, call 407-539-2181 or e-mail Ann Colvin at [email protected].