Decisions were much easier when I was younger.

“What do you want to get mom?”

“Flowers.”

Whether for her birthday, Mother’s Day, Easter or a “just-because” occasion, flowers were always the easiest gift option. But that was before floral became a fashion trend.

Now the flower scene has evolved into something a bit more complicated. First, there is the amount. Single? Bouquet? Gift Basket? And then, the tag-a-longs. A balloon? Or a bear? How about some candy? And don’t forget the actual flowers. Real? Dried? Or — artificial? And lastly, the colors. Extreme? Plain? Soft? Bright?

Whether purchased as a gift for someone else or a décor piece for your own home, flowers are the solution. And luckily, some excellent local florists are just a step away.

For those looking to give flowers as an expression of love, care, or appreciation, try Gidas Flowers on Forbes Ave. in Oakland. The shop offers a variety of flowers for the perfect occasion, whatever your taste. For that end-of-summer barbeque, try one of their pre-made arrangements. My favorite: the Strawberry Margarita. Not a pink fan? Gidas also offers a traditional Margarita and an Apple Martini, in addition to more conventional arrangements.

Flower amateurs have no fear — Jim Ludwig’s Blumengarten Florist is here! (Well, actually, they’re in The Strip.) Although they offer already-made floral arrangements, they also have a knowledgeable and attentive staff at the ready if you prefer to dream up a one-of-a-kind creation. Just tell them your preference, occasion, colors and they’ll put together the perfect floral gift.  Almost too easy.

So, what if your blooms are destined to brighten up your own home? Book yourself a home interior design consultation at Heritage Floral Shoppe & Courtyard in Ambridge. Specializing in creating arrangements with an artistic edge, their designers will create something that compliments both your home and personality. More than just a typical flower shop, Heritage offers a variety of gifts, as well as dried flowers and wreaths, pottery, dish gardens and planters.

Who knows what will be next on the floral scene: arrangements that deliver voice-animated messages; or maybe real flowers that never die. But no matter how daunting the array of options, colors, shapes and sizes, my mother will always be able to count on getting flowers at least twice a year.