Love It or Leave It: The Split on Valentine's Day Celebrations

As much as a hopeless romantic and I may be I've never been one to celebrate Valentine's Day. This may have something to do with the fact that I was dumped on February 14th when I was in my late teens.

So, where did this day of love begin? There are conflicting stories on the exact origins of Valentine's Day. In fact, it wasn't even a day people celebrated until some time in the 14th century. Easy to remember since it falls on February 14th.

Originally valentines were sent as formal messages as early as the 16th century. But in the 1700s, about 200 years later, they started showing up as commercially-produced printed cards. Printed valentines started showing up in the United States in the mid-19th century. Fast forward to 2025 and we've included candy, roses and jewelry as traditional gifts on top of a Valentine's Day card.

I guess that I've been tainted by my past relationships when it comes to this Hallmark holiday as I like to refer to it. If I want to buy my wife a card or some flowers, I'm not going to wait until the 14th of February. I'd rather give her something when she's not expecting it.

Granted my wife knows that I'm not a fan of Cupid, and she has expressed to me that she'd like me to be a little more open to it. But I would still prefer to do a random and unexpected date night on an off night rather than try to make reservations or stand in line for an hour. And Sweetest Day? Forget it!

Do you and your partner celebrate Valentine's Day? Do you have any special traditions?

11 Flowers You Don’t Want To Receive On Valentines Day

The giving of flowers on Valentine's Day became a tradition in the 18th century. The rose was the choice of the day because it symbolized love. Over time, other flowers were added, and each flower is also symbolic. What you may not realize, some flowers have a very negative message! Here is a handy guide that will alert you on 11 flowers you do NOT want to give that special person in your life on that special day celebrating love.

Gallery Credit: Brad Carpenter