Handbag Collection Holds the Answer to Mother’s Day

For the true bargain shopper, there’s something irresistible about a bona fide factory outlet where all of the merchandise comes from one manufacturer and is sold at wholesale prices.

So one great suggestion for Mother’s Day is to check out the handbags at Timmy Woods Beverly Hills Collection. And if Mom loves cats or dogs (even squirrels, pigs and other fauna), you can make a selection from the many hand-carved wooden handbags in the shape of animals.

A handbag in the shape of a large calico cat that retails at major boutiques for $180 is 50% off, or $90. That’s probably the top of the line; smaller models are much less.

Woods has been on the television-shopping networks selling her product, but you really have to handle these little treasures to appreciate the artistry of the designs and the meticulous workmanship. The corded silk shoulder bags come in luscious jewel tones and sell at many sources for $155, but here the price is $77.50.

Silk mini-pleated pouches are $42.50 (retail $85) and there is a good selection of evening bags for $10 and up. Also, round arm bags that slip over your arm to leave you free for whatever, are a great gift and they’re only $8.

Most of the inventory is made up of first-quality overruns, but there are a few shelves of seconds at even better prices. There are also hand-painted cotton beach bags, oversize tote bags and even some interesting wall hangings. This showroom is open to the public for the first time, and the sale will run through the month. If customers respond, it may become permanent.

Timmy Woods Beverly Hills Collection, 1140 S. Robertson Blvd., Los Angeles; (310) 550-8551. Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Major credit cards.

Weekend Super Sale: Flowers are always appropriate for Mother’s Day and Allen’s Wholesale Flowers has specials this weekend. The pull-out-all-the-plugs arrangement is made of up roses, lilies, orchids and other exotics set in a ceramic dish with a reclining angel--for $49.95.

A bouquet of spring flowers is $7.99, and there are many selections in between. Allen’s has two locations on Sherman Way: 21702 in Canoga Park and 18500 in Reseda. (818) 704-9900.