The Art of Romance:Valentines Day! By Elissa Tracy
Yes! Yes! Yes! It’s almost that time—Valentine’s Day.
The card isle is filled with people picking up and putting down cards,(some smiling or furrowed brows) searching for the perfect words to convey love. Before the mad rush for the perfect card and gifts, before the vibrant reds and pinks adorned the aisles, there was St. Valentine.
Saint Valentine, officially known as Saint Valentine of Rome, is a third-century Roman saint widely celebrated on February 14 and commonly associated with "courtly love.” Although not much of St. Valentine's life is reliably known, Valentine's Day has become a significant cultural, religious, and commercial celebration of love and romance. Even before the echoes of the Christmas holiday fade away, big-box stores eagerly unveil their displays of Valentine's Day cards, chocolate gifts, and stuffed animals. In years past, consumers have demonstrated their affection by spending over 2 billion dollars on flowers and floral arrangements alone. However, it's intriguing that the most popular gift on Valentine's Day remains the sweet indulgence of candy.
It is impossible to ignore the fact that, like most holidays, Valentine's Day has become outrageously commercialized. Television ads depict couples getting engaged on this momentous day, and social media is awash with suggestions on extravagant ways to spend money on your special Valentine. (Restaurant bookings will double prior to Valentines day, so secure those now.) Yet, amidst the commercialization, there's a simple yet profound way to make Valentine's Day truly memorable. Picture this: watching a sunrise or sunset together, indulging in a nostalgic journey through old photos, crafting a meal together by the glow of candlelight, exchanging homemade Valentine's cards, taking a joint class that piques your mutual interest, and compiling an exchange list of your partner's top favorite things about you. Most importantly, the evening should be void from digital distractions, with phones, computers, and iPads tucked away.
For those captivated by the allure of extravagant gifts, a piece of jewelry, imported chocolates, a spontaneous vacation, or, if available in your area, a hot air balloon ride accompanied by champagne—all dreamy possibilities.
Beyond the material gifts and grand gestures lies the true meaning of Valentine's Day—the celebration of love that is uniquely yours. Enhance the personal touch of your gifts with handwritten letters that express your feelings or curate a playlist of songs that hold sentimental value, as music can often magically rewind the hands of time. Steer clear of commercial clichés, and focus on crafting moments that will be etched in your hearts for years to come. Share love and laugh together often, these are the free gifts in life!