Valentine’s Day isn’t just about love letters and heart-shaped chocolates. This day is shrouded in mystery as it is in love. Whether you’re planning the perfect romantic gesture or just curious about this lovable day, we’ve got some quirky interesting facts about Valentine’s Day that’ll surprise you.
Join us on a fun-filled journey as we uncover interesting facts on Valentine’s Day that’ll make you appreciate this celebration even more. Plus, we’ll sprinkle in some NetFlorist gems to help you make this day extra special—assuming you don’t forget Valentine’s Day, of course!
What Is The Real Story Behind Valentine’s Day?
You’ve probably heard the name Saint Valentine. But did you know there’s more than one theory about who he actually was? Some believe he was a priest who defied the Roman emperor by secretly marrying couples, while others think he was a martyr who wrote love notes from his jail cell. Move out of the way Sade, this is the OG soldier of love!
In fact, the first ever Valentine’s note is believed to have been sent in the 15th century—by none other than Charles, Duke of Orleans, to his wife while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London. Now that’s a romantic pen pal!
If you want to keep the love and passion alive this Valentine’s Day, we recommend something a bit more light-hearted. You can never go wrong with a cute teddy bear, stunning jewellery or a lovely bottle of cologne. An expression of love you don’t have to serve time for!
Cool Facts About Valentine’s Day
This day has various captivating traditions that span the globe. From unique customs in Japan and South Korea all the way to Finland and beyond. There’s a world of weird facts about Valentine’s Day waiting to be uncovered. These lesser-known tidbits show how people around the world celebrate and enjoy it.
Traditions
14 February isn’t just celebrated the same way everywhere. Different cultures have their own unique ways of expressing love. As the saying goes, different strokes for different folks.
Let’s start things off with some unique traditions:
- In Japan, it’s tradition for women to give men, yep, the ladies do the gifting in this part of the world!
- In South Korea, Valentine’s Day is followed by “White Day” on March 14. Where men return the favour with gifts.
- In Finland, they celebrate “Friend’s Day,”. Which focuses on showing appreciation for friends rather than just romantic partners. Because platonic love is still love!
- In Italy, it’s customary to exchange Baci Perugina, hazelnut-filled chocolates wrapped in romantic quotes.
- In the Philippines, mass weddings on Valentine’s Day have become a popular trend. Where hundreds of couples tie the knot simultaneously.
More Interesting Facts About Valentine’s Day
Let’s not forget about the bizarre customs of the Victorian era. In those days, people would send “vinegar valentines” as a cheeky way of rejecting suitors. These cards were filled with sarcastic, often insulting messages. You’re better off gifting a gourmet snack hamper than vinegar!
Other customs and facts from this time period include:
- The first mass-produced valentines were created in the late 18th century by companies like Esther Howland’s New England Valentine Company.
- In the Victorian era, expressing feelings was often done through symbolic gifts, such as flowers with specific meanings like sunflowers for loyalty and adoration, lilies for purity and the classic red roses for love and passion.
- Romantic poetry and handmade cards were common, thanks to rising literacy rates and the increasing popularity of written expressions of love.
- Valentine’s Day cards were often adorned with lace, ribbons, and intricate designs, making them cherished keepsakes.
You can practice some of these traditions today, by giving symbolic gifts, which can be anything from floriography (the language of flowers) to personalised gifts like homeware, apparel, and stationery (a notebook or journal would capture those early traditions, by fostering expression through the written word)
The Numbers Behind The Love
Did you know that Valentine’s Day ranks among the top 10 most celebrated occasions globally? Each year, millions of flowers are delivered worldwide—12,754 bouquets from us alone in 2024! After all, what’s a Valentine’s celebration without some flower power? With billions spent online, it’s clear that Valentine’s Day is a shopping phenomenon.
To ensure their spoil doesn’t sell out, follow these steps:
Step 1: Choose a thoughtful gift, like a picnic basket filled with their favourite treats for a romantic outing, or a bath and body gift for ultimate pampering indoors. If you want to surprise him, consider a man crate or a biltong hamper. —because men deserve spoiling too.
Step 2: Order online ahead of time. We offer nationwide delivery, straight to their doorstep or workplace.
Step 3: Add a personal touch with a fine bottle of wine, brandy, or whisky, with their name and a sweet message to create a memorable keepsake.
Step 4: Schedule your order, pay the fee, and let our Cupid in the pink ride handle the rest.
Need more Valentine’s Day gift ideas? Explore our range for the perfect way to say “I love you” this year.
Modern-Day Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day is all about convenience today, and with online shopping, sending the perfect gift has never been easier. Whether you prefer a classic choice like flowers and chocolates or something more personalised, NetFlorist has you covered. Plus, the added convenience of seamless gift delivery ensures your surprise arrives right on time. With options for scheduled or same-day delivery, you’ll never miss a beat. After exploring these interesting facts about Valentine’s Day, why not make this year extra special? Browse our range of Valentine’s Day gifts for her and presents for him to make Valentine’s Day special this year and we’ll deliver them straight to their door. Happy shopping!
