Businesses are getting ready and a variety of events were held Friday in preparation for Mother’s Day this Sunday.

The group Strengthen our Sisters held its annual Mother’s Day demonstration to raise awareness about custody battles in which children are placed with abusive parents. The group says that they are advocating for a re-examination of such cases.

Military mothers and moms-to-be were treated to a “baby shower’ event at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst. It was sponsored by Delta Children and Operation Homefront.

A number of local wineries and nurseries were preparing for this weekend’s celebrations. Many say that they are expecting big crowds of families coming to celebrate their mothers.

And the Lavallette Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary hosted its annual Mother's Day flower sale Friday. Proceeds from this event directly benefit the firehouse.