While I do understand that for some couples Valentine’s Day is a big deal, I'm not sure we really need a day to tell us that we should tell our partners that we love them. Even when I have been in relationships, I’ve skipped Valentine’s Day. Not because I’m trying to take a stand or being an annoying rebel, but because I think Valentine’s Day is overrated and a total rip-off. I say the same thing about New Year’s Eve, so it’s not like it’s a Valentine’s Day only thing.
Here in the United States, St. Valentine’s Day has become a multi-billion-dollar commercial phenomenon. Last year it was projected that Americans would spend $19 billion dollars on Valentine’s Day and according to the National Retail Federation, over 50 percent of all Americans celebrate the day of money, er, I mean day of love. While other countries celebrate Valentine’s Day, no country does it quite like Americans because, well, no does anything quite like we do. We’re a "go big or go home" society.
What I’m saying is that maybe this year, even if you’re in a relationship, it may be time to consider skipping the whole V-Day thing. Instead, if you still want to celebrate, choose to do it the day before or after. You won’t just save money, but you’ll be starting a new tradition that's specific to you and your partner. It's something to think about. Here are 10 reasons why it may be a better move for you and your partner:
1. It’s Expensive AF
As I’m sure you’re already aware, on Valentine’s Day, everything is more expensive. According to a report by TIME in 2015 florists always end up paying double for roses beginning in early February. What that means, is that you end up paying double, too. Once you throw in all those prix fixe Valentine’s Day “deals” at restaurants, you’ve pretty much emptied your bank account. Wait until the day after to celebrate, and you'll save, save, save.
2. You Don't Need A Holiday To Give Chocolate
I realize it’s a very stereotypical gift to give, but sooo many people do it and that’s just the way it is. However, chocolate is a gift that, if you love someone, you should give them ALL the time. And not in heart-shaped boxes, but in cool boxes that don't have “Be Mine” scrawled all over them in pink.
3. You Have Better Things To Do Than Stand In Lines
The problem with Valentine’s Day is that it’s a major night for couples. What? Any other day of the week isn’t reason enough to get dressed up and go out to dinner?
Because this is the case, you’re dealing with lines at restaurants, especially those pesky ones that don’t take reservations, and when you finally get seated, it’s hella crowded. Honestly, restaurant kitchens, even the best, have a hard time keeping up with such volume and delivering a meal that would be perfect on any other night of the week.
4. Some People Prefer To Buy Their Own Lingerie
If you’re a woman who wears lingerie, do you really want your partner to choose lingerie for you? Be honest with yourself. While it’s the thought that counts, I think we can agree that if our partner is male, they really don’t have much of a clue about how to buy the lingerie most women would actually wear.
5. You Really Don’t Need Anymore Stuffed Animals
Unless you're a supporter of unconventional Valentine's Day gifts, another big conventional gift are stuffed animals, most notably silly little bears holding a heart that says “Be Mine,” or something equally cheesy. As an adult woman who sleeps with a stuffed animal every night and travels the world with him, I can attest to the fact that I don’t need another stuffed animal. Bernie is all I need, thanks.
6. Why Pink And Red?
I get that red and pink signify love. Although I’m not sure who decided that, trying to find anything that isn’t those two colors on Valentine’s Day is an impossible feat. What’s wrong with chocolates coming in circular green boxes? At least it would be original.
7. It's A Commercial Holiday
Although Valentine’s Day dates back as far as 496, these days it’s far more about commercialism and less about romance. The jewelry business has made it a holiday about them, the floral business has instilled in us that red roses are the only way to go, and lingerie has become a multi billion-dollar industry and Valentine’s Day helps with a lot of those sales. Where's the love in all that?
8. When Was The Last Time You Got A Good V-Day Gift Anyway?
Think long and hard about this one: When was the last time you actually got something you wanted for Valentine’s Day? Has anyone ever? Sure, a surprise weekend away is great! But as for the rest of it, not so much.
9. Red Roses Are Kinda Boring
I realize that red roses have become synonymous with eternal love, but in a world of so many stunning flowers, red roses just feel boring and cliché to me. Lilies and orchids… now I think those are some flowers worth giving to someone you love.
10. Every Day Should Be About Showing Love
What I’ve never really understood about Valentine’s Day is why we need a specific day to show our love for the important people in our lives. With 365 days in a year, can’t we do that every day? One shouldn’t have to wait for February 14 to show their partner they appreciate and love them with everything they have. That should be something you do because you want to, today, tomorrow, and forever. That fact right there is reason enough to skip Valentine’s Day; any day of the week is perfect to show how much love you have for someone.
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