According to statistics, approximately 150 million Saint Valentine’s Day cards are exchanged in the hands of lovers each year, making the day the second most popular card-pampering holiday after Christmas.
If you come to think of it, that’s a lot of cards and in a day and age of when climate change is the buzz word that certainly equates to a hell lot of trees.
But have you ever wondered how the popular day came about and who St. Valentine was? Just like most of you, I can only depend on history for an answer.
One written account contends that St. Valentine of Rome was put in prison for performing wedding rituals for soldiers, who were prohibited from getting married.
Another popular story suggests that St. Valentine was a priest who served in third century Rome during the reign of Emperor Claudius II.
The emperor decided that single men were better soldiers than those with wives and families so he outlawed marriage for young men.
Realising this gross injustice, Valentine went against Claudius’ order and continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secrete.
When Valentine’s actions were discovered, Claudius ordered that he be put to death. But regardless of the popular tale you choose to believe in, February 14 is undeniably the most romantic day of the year, marked with gift exchanges, from chocolates and teddy bears to sparkling wine and red roses.
With Valentine’s Day just four days away, below are few gift ideas I believe could help you with your shopping next time you hit town with that special person in your life, on your mind.
- $100 Jewellery
One of the reasons why jewellery is a popular gift for Valentine’s Day is the amount of time and care spent on selecting one single item. Unlike many other gifts, which can be a breeze to choose, selecting a piece of fine jewellery that speaks the language of love requires you to go carefully go through a huge range. Sometimes it can take hours. Sometimes it takes a few visits to the jewellery store.
Tip: Look at it this way. Jewellery is as a form of investment and is not just a costly purchase. But unlike stocks or bonds, jewellery is something you can confidently wear every day, look extremely chic in and turn heads your way. I don’t intend to help you burst your budget but do you remember the popular saying “Diamonds are a girl’s best friend”?
- $75 Dinner
Dinner stands out as the most special or the most looked-forward-to meal. I remember how dinner time was almost like religion when growing up. I was expected to wear my best, look my best and behave my best around the dinner table or get the wooden spoon kuku ni pusi style (smacking of fingertips in a clustered position). Dinners have a peculiar way of fostering closeness and imparting the true meaning of joy and life. They allow you to sit up close and personal and stare into another pair of eyes (just make sure you don’t melt with the warmth that fills the air around you).
Tip: Instead of splashing it out at your favourite restaurant, cook your Valentine’s favourite dish (don’t tell me you don’t know!) and have a quiet for-two meal at home. But if you still insist it’s romantic to eat out, choose a by-the-sea or beside-the-lake setting instead of the usual roadside street bistro.
- $50 Flowers
A bouquet of flowers may not last forever like diamonds but they exude a special feeling that other gifts won’t be able to mimic. Flowers are also one gift you can order over the phone and get delivered right at the doorstep of your choice (just beware of dogs and don’t go to the wrong address). Whether it’s a red rose or pink anthurium you choose, remember flowers have it all – they smell beautiful, they look beautiful and feel beautiful.
Tip: With prices going at $10-$15 a single New Zealand imported rose on Valentine’s Day, there’s no reason why you can’t choose native or tropical flowers, as an alternative option. A bunch of red sinu, hibiscus, frangipani,sinu kakala (which smells great) cevuga and ginger flowers can also do
the trick for cheap.
- $40 Red Wine
Whether you choose a bottle of shiraz, merlot or cabernet sauvignon from the supermarket’s red wine selection, there’s something about the scarlet red drink that makes it a suitable Valentine’s Day gift. Also, you can never go wrong with wine because it is considered a gift for all occasions and unlike books, it will never collect dust on your shelves. If this is a consolation, remember there’s a wine for any budget and preference.
Tip: Medical experts suggest that in moderation, wine may help you live longer, build defenses against certain cancers, improve mental health and enhance the condition of your heart. ( I can almost hear you conveniently drop the word apple saying “a glass a day keeps the doctor away”!)
- $30 Lingerie
Gifting a piece of lingerie like bra or underwear may seem corny and suggestive but it is a personal item of clothing that forms the backbone of any woman’s wardrobe. Guys if you make the right purchase, it has the potential to make her feel good and sexy. It’s always good to know your Valentine’s
lingerie size and her preference for colour and style. If you don’t want to alert her about your gift idea, have a look at a few ones in her wardrobe or drawer. (Remember getting caught snooping around for panties may send a wrong message).
Tip: It can be tempting to try and impress with something that will fit in your own definition of “looking sexy”. Just be careful dudes (hahaha) not to offend her and make her think you are being inappropriate.
- $20 Chocolate
There’s something mind-boggling about how the decadent taste of deep brown chocolate creates memories and friendships that last. In fact, it’s almost rare to find someone who will refuse chocolate (of course unless you are gifting a diabetic). Chocolate gifting can feel like a luxury experience that doesn’t cost a fortune and aside from its mouth-watering taste, chocolate contains endorphins, a chemical that makes you feel good and
relaxed. Some experts believe, depending on how much you eat, it’s also good for your cardiovascular health.
Tip: Chocolate is regarded as an aphrodisiac because of Serotonin and phenylethylamine, chemicals associated with feelings of falling in love. They are found in dark chocolate and are part of the brain’s way of indicating sexual arousal (It’s my pick of the week but I didn’t say you have to eat one whole bar).
- $10 Card
Valentine’s Day can be tricky. On one hand, it is the perfect time to buy something that will score you points. On the other hand, you don’t want to overdo it with a gift that will give mixed signals. Don’t fret! One of the best and cheapest gift items to find and buy for February 14 is a Valentine’s Day card that speaks what you have in your heart and mind. It is also hassle-free and comes in a selection that is more than meets the eye.
Tip: Choose cards that match with the level of your relationship with your Valentine. If you’ve just recently met, opt for something that has humour. If you’ve been together for a while, choose something that will tickle the feeling.
