Note to Readers: This article was originally published February 14th of last year. I’ve polished it and re-published it today, cause, well…it’s kinda relevant to the day – don’t you think ?

It’s Here Again…

Well, V-Day is finally here – and so is all the lovin’ pressure that comes with it!

What to get her, what to get him, what restaurant to book, what meal to cook, what kind of flowers to buy, what to write in the card, what romantic words to say, blah blah blah…

A lot of people say they don’t care about Valentine’s Day or they just don’t get what the big deal is – at least that’s what a lot of women pretend to think and what many men really do. I said many, not all! Jeez!

Deep down, I think most women (and some men too) expect something; some grand move that will reassure them that they’re loved and appreciated. Because on this day, all the other days of love, passion and romance are conveniently forgotten. On this day, she (meaning us ladies lol) expects an affirmation, an effort, a gesture, a thought, a night in shining armor, a “anything” from her man.

But then again, she also expects that on Mother’s Day, her birthday, her delivery day, Labor Day, International Women’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s, Wednesday’s… pretty much every other day of the year lol!

So whether today is a big deal to you or not, kind of matters – because it sure as hell is a big deal to the florists who jack up their prices x 3, the greeting card companies, the chocolate factories, the balloon makers, the restaurant owners, the jewelers, the heart-shaped candy manufacturers… basically, all the places your precious money will be going to.

So when you think of Valentine’s Day from this other point of view, then YES, it is a big deal – it’s frickin’ New Year’s!

Stan Reybern from Bill Shrink designed this infographic showcasing the costs and stats of love in America.

Although it seems a bit outdated – seeing that the latest year mentioned is 2004 –  it’s definitely worth taking a look at as it is an interesting representation of the industry that is love.

Wise Words of Advice

Men – do yourself a favor and avoid another senseless argument. Even if she says she doesn’t care or doesn’t want anything special, ignore her – unless you know for a fact that she really means it! And even then, she probably doesn’t.

Run to the flower shop, the mall, the jewelers, the toy store, wherever, whatever… and get something, then write something, then say something!

And ladies – for Pete’s sake, do something nice as well. But most of all…enjoy the TLC !

Oh, I almost forgot….Happy Valentine’s Day!

Now I’d love to hear your thoughts or rants about Valentine’s day and all that comes with it. Do you care? Do you make it a point to celebrate with your significant other? Do you work in any of these industries and have something to add?

PS – Please feel free to send me virtual gifts via any Social Media channel .