And, this is the reason Brambleberry Cottage in Spokane Washington is eagerly making preparations for their annual Mother’s Day afternoon tea. “It’s our busiest day of the year” said cottage owner, Dawn Kiki.
Located on Pacific Avenue near downtown Spokane Brambleberry cottage is like a little oasis amid a stressful world.
“We have been doing this for over 22 years, since we opened and it is something that we enjoy doing year after year” said Kiki.
Taking a few moments from her busy schedule to reach this reporter by phone, Kiki said. “We are offering a complete meal with our full-service tea.”
Other places around town – just to name a few, such as the Silver Spoon Tea House, Jacklin Arts, Cultural Center and the Volunteers of America of Northern Washington will be offering a Mother’s Day tea along with other celebration events.
“Celebrating Mother’s Day is something that we like to do around here in Spokane,” said Kiki. “It’s a tradition!”
One of the things that Kiki enjoys the most is seeing generation after generation coming to the cottage for Mother’s Day. “People we have known over the years have brought their children are now their children all grown, are bringing their children. We have had guests at Mother’s Day as old as 108 and as young as a newborn. We see the complete spectrum of life, it really is a family affair.”
Kiki noted that while Brambleberry Cottage does an excellent job of providing tea for just about any and every occasion, Mother’s Day continues to hold a special spot on everyone’s calendar for visits at Brembleberry. “Some people we only see once or twice a year. Our other busiest day of the year is Christmas,” she added. “There’s always a celebration of some kind said Kiki. And then there are those that visit us just because it’s a beautiful day or they just want to take a moment to visit with a friend.”
She pointed out that many make it a priority to come to the cottage for a holiday or special occasion. “We like to go out of our way and set a beautiful table and that includes everything: table cloth, cloth napkins silverware; a complete table-setting,” she said.
Each guest is seated with a place card and receives a party favor. Kiki wants moms to know “we do all the work, prepare the food, clear the table, wash the dishes, everything! That way moms can just sit back, relax and enjoy.”
Life today gets very hurried and little time is made for sit-down meals, “Many people work weekends and have to work on holidays, so to have this day for mom is special,” she said.
Kiki also pointed out that when a table is set and there is time to relax people have more conversation and can get to know one another better. “I know a tablesetting may seem a bit formal but when you take the time to set a table there is something about it that lends it self to visiting and conversations. I’ve seen this in my own children,” she said. “They will put aside their video games and electronic devices if you encourage them to join in and maybe even help out.”
Because Mother’s Day is such a busy day for the cottage there will be only one menu. “We will still serve some of our popular dishes like our very own secret recipe of an artichoke sandwich on a baguette. It is our speciality. Even the kids love it,” Kiki said.
Brambleberry Cottage anticipates the flow of many people and as Kiki said, “we can seat as many as 50 to a party. And, if weather permits… we will serve in the garden and on the patio.”
Tea service will begin at 11:00 AM and will continue until late afternoon. “Only, our special Mother’s Day Tea event will be on Saturday, the day before Mother’s Day… because,” said Kiki, “we want to enjoy Mother’s Day too!”
Located at 206 East Pacific Avenue in downtown Spokane – to make reservations and for more information about Brableberry Cottage Tea House and Gift Shop, visit the web site.
