Can you believe that Palm Sunday is tomorrow and Easter is next week? I can’t! If this holiday snuck up on you…don’t worry. The Italian Market’s got everything you need. Read on for my ideas to help you with your last minute preparations to celebrate with family and friends this Easter week.
First, make sure to stop at Betty Ann’s Florist to get your Sunday palms. She’s the only florist in the city I know that actually makes palm by hand into some really beautiful pieces. The artistry is incredible and demonstrated in the many styles and shapes they offer—from traditional plaits and crosses to artichokes and bananas–there’s one to fit every taste and every budget. ($5-$40) They really are just so pretty. If you’re invited to a loved one’s home for a holiday meal, you can never go wrong with a beautiful flower arrangement for your hostess. Betty Ann’s also has all kinds of great Italian keepsakes (you know…like horns to ward off evil!)—there really is a little bit of everything.
Next, what’s Easter without a little indulgence? My pick for goodies is Anthony’s Coffee and Chocolate House. Their beautiful chocolate Italian Easter eggs come in all shapes and sizes and are hollow—because there’s a surprise inside!
Choose your gift for your special little girl or boy and they will crack open that delicious dark chocolate egg to find a sweet little doll or tiny motorcycle inside! Anthony also makes his own chocolate in all different beautiful shapes for Easter. There are crosses, chicks and little lambs, just adorable for your Easter baskets.
And please! Make sure while you’re there to sit down and have a nice cappuccino and a traditional zeppole before they’re gone…they’re only here in March!
Last stop: Fante’s. If you’ve got a hostess with the mostess, this is THE place to get her a gift she’ll never forget. Fante’s is nationally renowned for having the finest kitchenwares and gadgets and has been a cornerstone of the Italian Market since 1906! If you’re shopping for the gal that has everything…this is the place where you WILL find that special something to show her how much you appreciate her. Feeling like you want to get creative with your own Easter meal or dessert?
Fante’s has a fabulous selection of baking pans and forms (need a lamb butter mold?) and take it from me…if you have the right tools, you can do anything! Trust me…Fante’s has everything you need!
Wishing you a beautiful and blessed holiday,
Jacquie
