Valentine’s Day dates back to the time of Geoffrey Chaucer and the rise of courtly love in the High Middle Ages. While it has since become a global celebration—often accompanied by a wave of marketing similar to Mother’s Day and Father’s Day—the true spirit of the day is simple: expressing love and appreciation.
See this link for a history of this fun holiday: Also at https://www.history.com/articles/history-of-valentines-day
You don’t have to buy into the hype. Instead, focus on what the day was meant to honor—genuine affection, connection, and love.
Remember, Valentine’s Day isn’t just for couples. It’s a chance to celebrate friends, family, and colleagues, too. Here are 8 thoughts to keep in mind:
- Send a card to someone you haven’t spoken to in some time
A lighthearted card or small token of friendship is perfectly appropriate. Keep it simple and inexpensive, without intense or romantic undertones. Valentine’s Day is not the moment to confess a secret love—build toward that conversation naturally.
- Inviting Someone Out
If you don’t know the person well—or only dated a few times—don’t assume they have plans with you. It’s natural to ask about it:
“Valentine’s Day is coming up—do you usually like to celebrate it?”
If you extend an invitation, keep it informal, casual, and pressure-free. It’s just an opportunity to enjoy time together… that’s it!
- Celebrating at Work
Treat it as a chance to boost camaraderie. Keep things playful—think kid-style valentines or heart-shaped treats. A small office celebration can build connection and morale, much like other workplace holiday traditions.
- Celebrating with Family
Why not send a Valentine to your children, parents, grandparents, siblings, and relatives? A simple card expressing love and gratitude never goes out of style—no matter your age.
- Celebrating Someone Special
Skip the clichés. Instead of defaulting to roses and chocolates, choose something personal. (For me, a beautifully wrapped bag of gourmet potato chips would be perfect! Chips/Crisps are my favorite snack food!)
When making plans, ask what they’d enjoy. Offer a few simple ideas—a casual dinner, a movie, or a shared activity. If the relationship is new, avoid overly intimate settings. A group outing may feel more comfortable until you know each other better.
- When You’re “Going Steady”
Now the day takes on a deeper meaning. Choose a gift that reflects thought and care. Share words of love and reaffirm your commitment—but save relationship problem-solving for another time.
- For Declared Married Couples, Husbands, and Wives
Plan something that reflects both your personalities—whether it’s a weekend getaway or a cozy dinner at home. My husband Ron and I love cooking together. (In fact, studies show couples who cook together are often happier—another reason we enjoy it!)
- When You’re Single
It’s easy to feel left out, so be proactive. Plan a dinner or cocktail evening with other single friends. Before I was married, a group of friends and I exchanged white elephant-style small boxes of chocolates, based on whose birthday was closest to 14 February—it was a festive, simple, and fun way to celebrate.
Whatever way you choose to celebrate, do so with thoughtfulness, respect, and sincerity. That’s what good etiquette—and meaningful celebration—is all about.
Happy Practicing!
Question of the Month: What other tips do you have to add to this list? Do you have great and/or horror stories to share about any of your own Valentine’s celebrations? We’d love to hear from you as learning lessons for the future.
I enjoyed reading this article. It is a well written article with human insight.
Happy Valentine’s Day!
Hello! This post couldn’t be written any better!
Reading this post reminds me of my old room mate! He always kept chatting about this.
I will forward this post to him. Pretty sure he will
have a good read. Thank you for sharing!
thanks for sharing
In the 1980's I had an affair with my sister-in-law. Single and in med school, we'd known each other since the 60's. We had talked things out and agreed to be friends and see each other on occasion for lunch. Valentine's Day rolls around and I decide to give her a card and a box of candy. BIG mistake, she tossed the card in the back seat, but we sat in her car, ate the candy and talked it through one more time. No communication for 20 years, but now we email weekly. No Valentines, no hard feelings, but it's still very real for me. Be careful what you wish for….