A Brief History of Valentine’s Day, plus Tips on Floral Gifts
Ah, Valentine’s Day, a day for flowers, chocolates,
candles and romance! Falling annually on
February 14 in the shortest month of the 
year, this traditional celebration
brings perhaps the greatest moments of bliss for couples around the world. A
day to express true love and affection, Valentine’s Day has a fascinating collection
of legends surrounding it and was originally designated to Honor the sacrifice
of a great saint.
One story begins in Rome, in the 3rd century BC, with a priest named Valentine who served in the kingdom of Emperor Claudius II, known also as Claudius Gothicus. The emperor had decreed that marriage among young men was to be outlawed, as he believed the bonds of family weakened the resolve of his soldiers. Christianity was also illegal. But the priest Valentine disagreed with this, as he believed strongly in love and the institution of holy matrimony, and thus continued to bless Christian weddings in secret. When the emperor discovered this “treachery”, he had Valentine arrested. Claudius is said to have actually liked the saint; that is until Valentine tried to convert him. The emperor was so enraged by this act that he had St Valentine severely beaten, and when he survived even this, he was beheaded at the Flaminian Gate on February 14. But if this was intended to deter further disobedience, then Claudius Gothicus failed and only succeeded in creating a martyr honored by Christians and lovers alike to this day.
Another tale tells of a young Valentine in prison, citing how he fell in love with the daughter of his jailor. He is said to have written her a beautiful love letter on the day of his execution - February 14 - signed “Your Valentine.” This fable has since brought about the exchange of passionate love letters and cards on Valentine’s Day every year.
While there are many other hagiographies and stories surrounding this mysterious martyr, all we know for certain is that he existed and died for his beliefs in love. St Valentine remains a symbol of the triumph of love over hate and demonstrates to us all that love can never be fully conquered. Thus we Honor his worthy cause when we celebrate Valentine’s Day every year.
Of course, in recent decades Valentine’s Day has practically become a commercial enterprise, but that does not mean you cannot do something special for your loved ones! While red roses have become the staple present, it is true their cost is often increased at Valentine’s, but there are some wonderful and equally meaningful floral alternatives available. Here are some tips on what to choose and how to present your gift:
1) Why not surprise her with tulips? These cheerful, silky flowers are generally available all year. Popular colors for this occasion are pink, red and white, and a combination of the three makes a gorgeous bouquet.
2) Another bright choice is the Gerbera Daisy, which comes in a myriad of shades of red, orange, hot pink and even yellow. Put a few of these together and you are sure to make her day.
3) Carnations, a symbol of deep affection, also abound in multiple hues all year and are very fragrant.
4) If you find you do want to stay with roses, be sure to place your orders via your local Edmonton florist early, because demand for roses is extremely high at Valentine’s and the longer you wait, the less selection you will have to choose from.
5) Surprise her with flowers at work instead of home; there’s nothing quite like going to the office and finding a fresh scented bouquet on your desk.
6) For all you ladies who are wondering, can I send flowers to my man? Of course! Just be sure to consider whether it is something he will appreciate first.
7) Is Valentine’s Day only for lovers? Not at all! Why not surprise a friend with daisies, a teacher with freesias or a co-worker with sunflowers?
8) Finally, avoid potted plants. Although they last longer and are extremely pretty, at the end of the day you want to express that you are thinking with your heart, and not your head; so fresh cut flowers at Valentine’s Day are always the best.