Valentine’s Day is a 1570-year-old holiday that Pope Gelasius I created to honor Saint Valentine. The holiday evolved in the Middle Ages after Geoffrey Chaucer popularized Valentine’s Day in the 14th century, creating a poem romanticizing gift giving and the celebration of love. Gifts exchanged during that time were mostly useful, like herbs that could be used to create perfume, quail eggs, public events with live music, and food.
Valentine’s Day has changed from the celebration of love to the support of single-use products like cards, plastic ribbon, and balloons; many not being recycled, eventually contributing to the already high waste amount in America. “People spend roughly $27 billion for Valentine’s Day,” Flowers, the main gift on Valentine’s day whether they be roses, lilies, or even babies’ breath are, “dominated by shipments from Colombia according to S&P Global Market Intelligence data.” and even yummy Valentine’s day chocolate’s imports come primarily from Mexico and Canada, representing “68.9% of the US imports worth US$3.33 billion in 2024.” Those shipments for “dreamy” gifts will likely increase by 40.8% by December, due to Donald Trump’s administration’s plans to increase 25% on products from Mexico and Canada.
Nearly a decade ago (2015-2016), the total spending totaled $18.2 billion; still a high number, but not too high compared to the cost today, which has nearly doubled. This makes it clear that overconsumption remains a topic people rarely discuss, which shows negative effects to the environment but lifts the economy. Keeping business thriving, but the consumers are struggling. Many consumers are struggling to maintain their relationships due to the overly materialistic need to “show off,” changing the overall meaning of Valentine’s Day to show your love and appreciation to the now almost performative celebration of love.
Leading to the change in couples celebrating the holiday, and choosing a “non-performative” Valentine’s Day. Choosing a less flashy Valentine’s Day can help relationships thrive. “There is nothing wrong with a candlelit dinner or a bouquet if that brings you and your partner joy. But if you find yourself in a pickle – stressed and broke – give yourself the permission to opt out.” This Valentine’s Day, enjoy the people you love, whether that be family, romantic partners, or friends, without putting financial pressure on the holiday meant to be celebrated through love.
