Preparing for Mother's Day

Soon it will be Mother's Day and if you prepare properly, it could be one of the most successful days of the year for you. First of all think outside the box, meaning don't do what every other restaurant does. Meaning forget about the fresh rose at her place. Most women will say, "how pretty" and forget about it which is a good idea because it will probably be dead by the end of the meal. Your flower should be silk and attached to a clasp so she can wear it as a brooch all year. That she will appreciate.

If you have a dessert specialty, pack it in a pretty box and give it to each lady. If not, arrange for a chocolatier to pack a few chocolates in a box, preferably with your name on it.

Now is the time to put your bartender to work creating "ladies" drinks. Most women love sweet drinks, especially if the drinks are pretty colors. Think Grasshoppers, Brandy Alexanders or Pousse Cafe. Think up drinks to go with names like Hot Mama and Pretty Lady. You might also consider stocking up on bottles of sparkling wine.

On Mother's Day have a special brunch menu as well as lunch and dinner. "Special" as in more expensive. Everything should be different and festive. Try to have special menus or at least specials that day.

A week or so before Mother's Day, see if you can work with your local hospital to get the names of women who have just given birth. Contact them and inquire if they would like to celebrate their special day at home. Suggest a special meal that can be ordered and delivered, complete with tablecloth and utensils. Or set it up like a picnic basket.

How do you get people to know what you're planning? You might consider placing ads in the paper. Post your special menu on your window. Or, pack up the most beautiful example of your special Mother's Day menu complete with silk flower and tablecloth and deliver it piping hot to your local radio or television station for the female anchor to feast on. I guarantee you will get mentioned on the air.

Now put on your thinking cap and get to work.