PREEN & CHIC: MAMA'S DAY!

Found yourself just a few days away from Mother's Day with not clue on how to celebrate your mom? No need to panic! PREEN & CHIC has you covered. From brunch and dinner to those local spots that have the “it” gifts, we'll highlight some locally owned shops that will have you coming for more all through out the year. Best of all, they are just a few blocks away from each other.

The first order of business is where to eat! And eat here has a spectacular deal for us. I could not believe it when, while sipping on Malbec a few weeks ago, I read a little sign saying, “Mothers Eat Here for Free." I just had to make it public. I've been told by the restaurant that on Mother's Day, any mother who comes along with a guest or her whole family will dine for free, including dessert. Alcohol will not be covered, so buy your mom a drink or have her hydrate on water all night long---you don't want her to "lose elasticity!"My favorite brunch spot in Sarasota is Station 400 with locations downtown (make sure to get a table on the outside patio) and in Lakewood Ranch. I always get the Truffle Eggs Benedict with Parmesan fries and extra Hollandaise on the side.

Another must-do, unless your mother is allergic, are flowers.  In the short time since it opened, Victoria Blooms has become the "it" shop when it comes to flower arrangements.   This Sunday there will be a nice variety of ready-made arrangements to pick up and go, not to mention gift baskets, terrariums and potted orchids or dish gardens. The shop will be open on Sunday from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m., but it is best to call ahead. Feel free to stop by to build your own creation, get creative and play with the warm, friendly staff.

Victoria Blooms' Julietta Flower Arrangement ($78.00)

Now, I know the Preen & Chic moms would love a little something new in their closets. I peeked into Lotus today and found a few gifts that any mother would love to have. Rebecca Minkoff is a luxury, yet affordable line of leather goods. The brand's handbags and accessories are a must for every woman. I love the Large Zip Wallet ($195.00) in classic white and black! And the "Mac Clutch" ($395.00) is an amazing everyday bag for any age.  Also in the shop I found a pair of Pashminas ($68.00) in Hermes Orange and Indian Pink that caught my eye. Each one will add a punch of color to any outfit, great for those nighttime events.

What woman does not like to look her best?  A little pampering is always in order, and L. Spa is the place to go for a mani/pedi. Last week I cheated on my favorite nail technician, Isabella from The Met Spa & Salon, and went with my friend Zara Barrie to her favorite spot. L. Spa in Burns Court is where I met Karen and Reba. Both girls were amazingly entertaining, offered us a complimentary glass of champers and, most importantly, both were extremely talented! Being in the beauty industry for five years has given me a snob-like attitude with beauty services. I must say that Isabella was my one and only, but Reba and Karen are right up there with my favorite girl. Both The Met and L. Spa offer gift cards or side-by-side appointments in case you want to go with your mom. When it comes to hair, the spot downtown is Nuovo, an Aveda concept salon. With many stylists to choose from, you will always find your perfect match! Make it a blowout or a whole new look---you will always be in safe hands.While mom is getting her hair done, you must walk over to a temple of luxury nearby. Liebe Smith-Gamble, style icon and owner of June Simmons Jewelry, showed me a couple of fun treats a mother will not be able to resist. As I am entertained by all the stunning pieces, Liebe brings me over to the Meira T collection. This beautiful line has great pieces for layering that can be worn every day and still capture a unique design. They are perfect for the mom on the go: lightweight, comfortable and yet really fashionable.

Last but not least, this weekend is perfect to take your mama out on the town! A few upcoming must-attend events are at the third annual Harvey Milk Festival at Five Points Park from May 10 through 12. The festival’s mission is to promote emerging artists in music, art, and film while raising awareness of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) equality.

Trying to get fit? Friday is Tuck.Sip.Shop!! Join Pure Barre, Stella and Dot and Simply Spoiled Boutique for a fun day of tucking and shopping in honor of Mother's Day.  Please remember to reserve your spot for the special class at 10:45 benefiting Mothers Helping Mothers---you can call the studio or reserve online. And who says mothers' special day is over on Sunday? Next Thursday, May 17, it's time to Sail Into Summer with Designing Daughters for their second annual Fashionable Gala taking place at the Sarasota Yacht Club.  It will be a night of fashion, food, open bar and entertainment. Last year, yours truly was auctioned off at this young and happening event!