Don't Fall Prey to Valentine's Day

Romance or Profit?

Valentine's Day is a holiday that generates billions of U.S. dollars in revenue. According to Statista, spending for Valentine's Day in 2025 is expected to reach 27.5 billion dollars. The most basic purchases associated with this holiday include greeting cards, candy, flowers, teddy bears, and romantic meals at restaurants. There is advertisement overload and a great deal of pressure on lovers. This holiday can make or break a relationship should one party not fulfill the romantic expectations of the other during Valentine season. However, Valentine's Day is a social construct and many fall prey to the economic expectations, or at the very least, feel guilty if they cannot give or receive this form of romance.

Support Local Businesses

Almost three billion dollars is spent on flowers during this season. If you are going to purchase flowers, then consider a local florist shop. As I often do, I recommend that you patronize a local independently-owned bookstore for cards and gifts. How about a book of romantic poetry or Shakespearean sonnets? You can gaze longingly into each other's eyes while the words flow from your tongue. Dine at a local and/or family owned restaurant versus a chain restaurant or franchise eatery.

Alternative Gifts

Show business icons, Carol Channing and Marilyn Monroe, both famously sang "Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend." Now while I love a sparkly piece of jewelry, this girl would greatly appreciate a man purchasing her some stock. Those dividends are the gifts that keep on giving. Alternative gift giving is welcomed here.

Valentine's Day (or Valentine's week) can be a time to get creative with your romantic endeavors. Leave love notes around the house as a teaser before the big day. Perhaps you cannot afford a cozy bed and breakfast but you can decorate your residence like a fancy French bistro or a theme such as island paradise. How about cooking for the love of your life or have your friend or relative, who is an awesome cook, prepare the meal and you both dine while a violinist serenades your lover. You can prepare your own strawberries dipped in chocolate. This creates a truly intimate dining experience that you cannot obtain in a public restaurant. Essential oils can work wonders to rejuvenate and heal the body and mind. Using them to massage your lover can produce...well...you get the idea.

The Primary Goal:  Romance

Consider the pressure that you may be placing upon your beloved. There is no price tag that could represent true love. What's most important is the bond that you share and showing appreciation for one another. I want you to both celebrate and be celebrated romantically, but whatever you do...Don't fall prey to Valentine's Day.

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(Paula Goddard is a contributing writer for Atlantic City Focus. She is an award-winning writer, personal finance advisor, community organizer, and educator. She can be reached via social media @paulasuniverse - via email at pgMoneyMinute@gmail.com & via telephone at (202) 681-8767.)

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