The National Retail Federation reports that mother's day spending decreased this year for the first time in five years. 33 Reporter Dennis Biviano talked to some local residents to find out how the economy has affected their gift purchases and dinner plans for this special day.
Many restaurants these days seem to be attracting customers with set-priced buffets rather than traditional sit-downs. One such buffet-style celebration was held at Fellows Riverside Garden and catered by The Georgetown. Over 700 people attended over the course of the day...that's an increase of 150 people over last year. The Georgetown Restaurant Chef says the economy played a role in making the final decision on pricing.
"WE DIDN'T UP IT. WE KINDA LEANED TOWARDS DOING IT BUT THE WAY THINGS ARE, WE DECIDED TO KEEP IT THE SAME."---George Wainio
Well how about consumer spending...The national retail federation says in a recent report that Mother's Day spending will decrease this year for the first time in five years. Locally some say they have cut back on the amount of gifts.....but others say you should be willing to sacrifice a little for family occasions.
"I THINK PEOPLE ARE GOING WITH SMALLER GIFTS, MORE WITH FLOWERS AND CANDY THAN BIG TICKET ITEMS."---Chuck Hostetter
"WE HAVE DOWNSIZED. OUR INCOME HAS DOWNSIZED AS WELL. JUST A FACT OF LIFE , BUT MOTHER'S DAY IS MOTHER'S DAY AND WE'RE HERE TO ENJOY IT."---Ted Cavanaugh
Material possessions aside.. It's still the little thoughts that count.
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