For most of us, it’s the first name we learn to say.
She’s the reason we’re here today.
From those tentative first steps to sleepless nights holding your hand. From sitting patiently and cleaning up your mess to watching from afar as you grew up and distanced yourself. From supporting you when things were good, to standing by you when they weren’t, she loved you unconditionally. She watched you grow and made it happen.
She is all things fantastic. She is love. She is strength. She is motivation and inspiration. Equal parts friend, confidante, role model and grade-A chef. The woman who always had the answer, even when you didn’t know the question.
They say behind every great man is a woman, but we strongly disagree. In our minds, behind every great man is an even more amazing mother.
We may not be able to repay the sacrifices they’ve made, but for at least one day a year, we can do our best to make them feel special. We appreciate our mothers most, which is why Sandton Central are all about spoiling them this May.
So, you ask, how do we do it? It’s simple. The best deserves nothing but the best, and boy have we got the best lined up.
The beauty of mothers is that they appreciate EVERYTHING. Big, small, it doesn’t matter. Nobody epitomises the concept of “it’s the thought that counts” more. So, before you start, it’s important to note that whatever you do, it’ll be good enough. With this in mind we urge you not to overextend yourself – but at the same time don’t go too small.
Let’s start with food:
It’s no small secret that nobody, not even Gordon Ramsay himself, can match a mother’s cooking. And, try as you might, you won’t be able to replicate it. But as any seasoned cook will tell you, nothing is appreciated more than a day off and away from the kitchen. We’d start by celebrating a mutual love for all thing’s food related at the place which serves all her favourites.
Not sure where to go? Our suggestion is Alice and Fifth for a truly memorable night out. Ambiance, live entertainment, insanely talented dancers and a menu to match make this a must-see venue on any occasion – but especially a celebratory one.
Another good shout would be Cilantro’s or one of the only Hard Rock Cafés in SA, both situated in Nelson Mandela Square. Alternately, for something less mainstream, take a look at Rockets Express or The Grillhouse. Make sure you get your bookings done in advance to avoid disappointment.
Don’t forget the flowers:
Nothing says “I love you” quite like a beautiful bouquet of flowers. Eye catching, divine smelling and the most thoughtful gesture around, there’s a reason they’ve withstood the test of time. Our picks are Frond and Filigree, situated on Alice Lane, and Bespoke Bouquet – but you can find a full list of on our website. As above, so below, be sure to plan – you don’t want to be scrambling for last minute, petrol station replacements on Sunday morning!
Art, Antiques, Curios and Gifts:
Lastly, nothing encapsulates the perfect, appreciative child you are than a gift worthy of a queen. In terms of cards, gifts and curios, we’ve got Cardies, JJ Cale, Sandton Stationery & Print, and Typo (amongst many others).
Our top tip this year, however, is to think a bit differently. It’s hard finding clothing that suits other people’s taste, and sometimes the fit might not be right – the last thing you want to do is offend anyone. Our suggestion? Purchase a voucher from any one of our kiosks for a gift that never disappoints. Because you can’t put a price on choice.
Ultimately, Mother’s Day is about many things, but mostly it’s about love and appreciation. So take your time and spend your day with the most important woman in your life (sorry to all those wives out there!). The sad reality of life is that one day, she won’t even be around. With this in mind, we encourage those lucky enough to still have her to cherish every moment while they can.
