Why everyone should love Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day. Love it or hate it, once February hits you can’t escape it. Shops everywhere bombard you with images of cupid, love-struck couples and cards featuring admittedly nauseatingly cute kittens mewing I love you, whilst the question on everyone’s lips is, what are you doing for Valentine’s Day?

Cynics are quick to argue that Valentine’s Day is merely a consumer driven farce whilst many a Bridget Jones has wailed into her wine glass at the prospect of being alone, with no prospect of an anonymous card being pushed through the letter box come the 14^th. Blogs festooned with anti-Valentine messages and images have risen in popularity and, worryingly, advice helplines have admitted to placing extra staff on the phones in the run-up to the big day.

But of these cynics, lonely singletons and fierce opponents, one asks, aren’t you missing the point?

Yes, Valentine’s Day could be regarded as a commercial construct that fills people with dread and is designed to make people feel lonely or depressed, or it could be approached as a day to look forward to and an opportunity to celebrate and recognise all the great people in your life who love you.

Instead of focusing on the negatives, you could spend Valentine’s Days with friends, go out for drinks, have dinner or simply curl up in front of a good film with a bottle of wine (although it’s perhaps best to skip The Notebook!). The fact that you are single shouldn’t bother you. Instead you should choose to focus on the positives.

Recognising a growing trend, online boutiques, shops and card retailers have been quick to cater to those seeking to celebrate with friends, family and co-workers. So even if you’re single, you need not miss out.

Ellieellie.co.uk stocks some gorgeous pieces all year round, such as their Location Map products, and is particularly well stocked for Valentine’s Day. 

The Sisters before Misters card (above) is brilliant, whilst the Friend Word Definition keyring and pendant sets (below) are perfect for those seeking to treat close friends to something special.

To those out there who are newly single, online blog Domestic Sluttery discovered some amazing cards last week, with illustrations by David Shringley. This particular card  (below) is a perfect way to cheer someone up and to poke fun at previous partners.

This I Love… photo frame from Urban Outfitters (below) is great and can be given to friends and partners alike.

 

Looking for more inspiration or present ideas? Check out Bloomsbury Store, Paper Chase and online blog Domestic Sluttery.

For those of you who don’t buy into Valentine’s Day but are still stumped on how to avoid the blues, here are some ideas for things to do.

Exeter

According to Rhona Kirby, Exeter has some great things on offer for those seeking to treat a partner or enjoy the day with friends.

Why not wrap up warm and hire a canoe from Saddles and Paddles and journey along the quay, checking out the local pubs for lunch?

Bath

With boutique hotels, cafes and much more, there is always something to do in the city. 

The Thermae Bath Spa in the city centre comes highly recommended. Featuring a gorgeous open-air rooftop pool, the spa regularly offers group packages as well as the more romantic Twilight Package.

Alternatively, take a look at The Canary Gin & Wine Bar for delicious cocktails and an old school ambiance.

Leeds

University student Josiah Menzies recommends the Sky Lounge, Harewood House or the Cellar Bar.

London

London is jam-packed with restaurants, clubs, pubs, historical landmarks and museums. For something a bit special why not try IceBar by IceHotel. Nestled away on Regent Street, the bar provides both a perfect excuse to cozy up to someone on a romantic Valentine date and a fun night out for a group of friends.

Megan’s Deli on Kings Road provides a romantic setting for two or can cater for large groups. Its food is simple and delicious, offering steak, tiger prawns and octopus amongst other enticing dishes.

Brighton

Like London, Brighton offers a diverse range of restaurants, pubs, boutique hotels and unique experiences. My Hotel, situated near the vibrant North Laines, is particularly impressive with its unusually decorated and well stocked bar, Indian restaurant and coffee house. 

Furthermore, My Hotel have teamed up with the exotic brand, 210^th by Sofie Rockland, to create The Valentine’s Day package for adventurous couples looking to celebrate Valentine’s Day with a bang!

Valentine’s Day has developed an unnecessarily bad reputation, yet there are plenty of reasons to celebrate it. Failing that, at least acknowledge the positive aspects of the holiday.

With so many brands now expanding their product ranges, Valentine’s Day is no longer the sole domain of couples. Whatever your situation or circumstance, there are plenty of reasons and ways to celebrate.

And that is why everybody should love Valentine’s Day.

Sarah Aston