Ah Valentine’s Day. A day filled with romance, love, flowers and chocolates galore! And while some of us love and embrace the day of romantic gestures, others love to hate it. But why? Is it the consumerism that surrounds it? The fact we’re told that on only one day a year we can shower our significant other with extra amounts of affection and gifts? For those of you who assume Valentine’s Day was invented by Hallmark, unfortunately you would be mistaken.
Where does Valentine’s Day come from?
Also known as Saint Valentine’s Day or the Feast of Saint Valentine, the day of romance is said to stem from a Christian feast day honouring a saint known as Valentinus. The day first became linked to romantic love in the 14th Century, when the tradition of courtly love flourished!
Why should we love to love the day of love?
There are so many reasons to love Valentine’s Day. From the fact it gives you the perfect excuse to be extremely cheesy with your significant other (think cheddar melted on manchego and sprinkled with parmesan), to the sheer amount of incredible chocolate that you can buy in the days leading up to and after it too. Plus, who doesn’t like to be gifted a big heart shaped slab of chocolate? If you’re looking to grab your other half some delicious, love-inspired treats.
Did you know it’s not just for couples in love either? With the rise of Galentine’s Day and Palentine’s Day, you can show your friends just how much you love and appreciate them too.
Why do we love to hate it?
Like everything in life, you can’t please everyone, and Valentine’s Day is no exception. For example, if you’re not in a relationship but everyone around you is, a special day filled with romance can be difficult. If you’re single this Valentine’s Day, why not treat yourself to a day out or take part in an activity with a friend!
It can also be tough on your finances, especially if you’re prone to overspending. Prices for the simplest of things get hiked up, and if what you want to get for your significant other isn’t within budget, you may feel pressured into spending money you might not have.
Whether you’re in a relationship or not this February, embrace the day for what it is and be mindful of those around you. No matter if it’s Valentine’s, Galentine’s or Palentine’s for you this year, I hope you enjoy it!