MOM'S THE WORD

Surprise mom with a special gift

By Sascha Lykes

My mom and I share a closet … not literally, of course. Since we have the same taste in clothing, I usually know what to buy her for Mother’s Day. My brother, on the other hand, thinks a Hallmark greeting card expresses his gratitude for the years of feeding, clothing and chauffeuring. Sorry Ken, it doesn’t. And if you think purchasing a practical home appliance is a good idea, save the receipt. So when it comes to mom, what do you get her? Instead of getting overwhelmed, here are a few suggestions that will put a smile on any mother’s face.

Women love to get what they want, not what they need, and moms are no exception. So why not pamper her at her favorite salon or spa instead. If you’re not sure of where that is, take her out of her element and make an appointment at Herbal Spa Sauna & Salon (949 Kawaihao St., 589.0800), a women’s-only retreat that offers hair and nail services, massages, facials and a full body exfoliating technique that’ll leave the skin feeling buttery smooth and soft (not red and tender). They also offer a comprehensive massage-and-scrub package that includes a facial. A small disclaimer: Don’t bring your mother here if she isn’t comfortable being nude in front of other women.

Sing praise to your mom by picking up something for her at Divalicious (Kapolei Shopping Center, Ward Center and Aina Haina Professional Building, 373.3355). All three stores carry a line of such design wear as O’Lala, Lush, Love Station, Trinity and Lani. Purse caddies, spa-themed creams, purses and jewelry can also be found throughout the boutiques. Prices range from $20 to $40 with the most expensive item ringing in at $50.

For a little bling, Maui Divers (multiple locations) recently released a new line called Hipu‘u Aloha Collection, bowtie-themed contemporary pendants, earrings and rings in 14K yellow, rose and white gold – often with pearl highlights. “We’re also expanding our Lace Plumeria Collection for Mother’s Day,” says Michelle Hulme, vice president of design. “It will include pendants, earrings and rings.” Of course, the ultimate expression of love can be found in an “Aloha Heart” pendant with a hidden message that’s revealed when cast in a shadow.

Koa jewelry is always a welcomed gift. At Hawaiian Accessories (multiple locations), pieces of the endemic tree are artistically shaped into bangles, rings, earrings, pendants and necklaces, all coming in different hues of reds and chocolate browns, and in varied grains. “No two pieces are alike,” says sales manager Patty Sherman. “All our jewelry is handcrafted here in Hawaii.”

And, if all else fails, get her a card. Find a nice one — or a few if you’re counting tutu and aunty — that’s locally made at South Shore Paperie (1016 Kapahulu Ave., 744.8746). With cute phrases and artwork that are unique to Hawaii, these cards would make Martha Stewart and her army of homemakers jealous. Even if all you do is get your mother a simple card … ahem, Ken … the ones that you find here will make her feel like it was made especially for her, which is also an option. •IO