The earliest surviving valentine’s poem is a 15th-century rondeau written by Charles, Duke of Orléans to his wife, which commences:

“Je suis desja d’amour tanné
Ma tres doulce Valentinée…”
Charles d’Orléans, Rondeau VI, lines 1–2

meaning: “I am already tanned with love. My very sweet Valentine…”

The European folk traditions of St. Valentine’s Day have become marginalized by modern customs connecting the day with romantic love, but there are still some connections with the advent of spring. While the custom of sending cards, flowers, chocolates and other gifts originated in the UK, developed in early modern England and spread throughout the English-speaking world in the 19th century. In the later 20th and early 21st centuries, these customs spread to other countries.

In 1797, a British publisher issued The Young Man’s Valentine Writer, which contained scores of suggested sentimental verses for the young lover unable to compose his own. Printers had already begun producing a limited number of cards with verses and sketches, called “mechanical valentines.” Paper Valentines became so popular in England in the early 19th century that they were assembled in factories.

Nowadays, Valentine’s Day offers lovers many ways to express their emotions. Many people around the world celebrate it by showing appreciation for the people they love or adore. Some people take their loved ones for a romantic dinner at a restaurant while others may choose to offer greeting cards, chocolates, jewelry or flowers.

How about you? How do you feel about Valentine’s day?

I think it is a great chance to dress up in your finest! Your finest clothes or your finest pjs!
No matter what your plans are, whether you’ve got reservations at a posh restaurant or you’re eating a meal at home or cuddling on a couch to watch a movie… dressing up and good grooming will make the occasion feel special but most importantly, it will make you feel extra special!

But what are you planning to offer to your loved one? Looking for something different this year?!

Have you thought of offering a loving Grecian Chic Art print?

🖤