With Christmas and New Year behind us, it’s time to prepare for the ultimate romantic celebration in the UK — Valentine’s Day. This holiday for young lovers, long-term partners, and loyal BFFs is a long-running tradition in Britain. Numerous couples commemorate their affection every year on February 14. Today, we dive deep into history to gain inspiration from Valentine’s Day presents of the past.
First, let’s consider the tradition’s history. The most well-known version explains that the holiday was established by Pope Gelasius I in honour of Saint Valentine’s martyrdom. However, another view suggests that the commemoration of loving bonds was simply the Catholic Church’s replacement for the Roman festival ‘Lupercalia’.
Regardless of the actual story, it’s certain that the custom of Valentine’s Day gifts for her began back in the 14th century. Then, on February 14, 1415, the Duke of Orleans sent a romantic poem to his beloved wife. In contrast, Valentine’s Day gifts for him are a relatively modern trend of the traditional practice. As cards, flowers, and chocolate boxes are commonly used in commercials, surprises for men are more frequently included in marketing campaigns.
What can we take away from this glimpse into the celebration’s past? When choosing suitable Valentine’s Day gifts in London, UK, consider a variety of presents, from classic roses to unique, customised toys. For an outstanding surprise, check out Flowwow — an online marketplace with high-quality selections and same-day delivery.