Feb 14: How ready are you?

Valentine’s Day is seven days from today. For a thousand and one people, February 14 is a time when people go out of their way to show their love, care and appreciation towards their partners. Before going any further with a few handy tips on how to make your Valentine’s Day a memorable one, here is an insight into the origin of Valentine’s Day.

History

Several Christian martyrs were named as ‘Valentine’. There is another legend which says that Valentine was a priest in Rome who served during the 3rd century. This was a time when Emperor Claudius II banned marriages for young men but Saint Valentine defied his words and went to conduct secret marriages for young lovers. He was later put to death for this act.

Symbols of Love

The most popular symbol of Valentine’s Day is heart, which is often found in the shade of red and pink. There are also pictures and models of cupid. Cupid as we all know is the god of desire, love and affection. He is a winged god with a bow and arrow. The bow and arrow is used to strike the hearts of people so that they can fall in love with whoever they come across first.

Different Valentine Day Flowers

Most people choose to use flowers to express love to their loved ones. In the age of modern technology wherein applications like Whatsapp, BBM and social networking are taking edge over other traditional methods, people still use flowers to surprise their spouse.
You might have seen boys going down on their knees and proposing their love with a bouquet of flowers ranging from Roses, Gerbera Daisies, Tulips, Casa Blanca Lilies, Peruvian Lilies, Carnations, Orchids, Sunflowers, Irises and Gardenias.

Celebrations around the World

The celebrations of Valentine’s Day started in the 19th century in modern England. Nowadays it is celebrated in almost all part the world. In China, it is also known as ‘Lovers’ festival’ when most men give flowers and chocolates to their lady love. In European countries and the States, it is celebrated as the ‘Day of Love’ wherein people give flowers, chocolates and gifts to the person they love.

Think of a Holiday Plan

This year, it is recommended you try out something different instead of the old bouquet or chocolates. Chalk out a plan and scuttle off to some nearby destination with your beloved. Thinking of where to go? This website offers a wide variety of destinations for you to pick from ; from hotels, restaurants, resorts and other interesting places in Nigeria.
Luckily, 14 February 2014 happens to fall on a Friday meaning the entire weekend can be utilised for a refreshing trip.

Tips for Celebrating Valentine’s Day

**Ladies, how about you go out of the way and surprise him this time?

• Have flowers delivered to him at work, prepare his favourite dinner and take him out for a candle light dinner.

• There is a popular saying that the way to a man’s heart goes through his stomach. Prepare him a special meal. Besides, you can gift something that he has a keen interest in.

• Decorate the entire house to create a festive mood. Fluffy pillows, new cushions& curtains and scented candles throughout the house. Make him feel that the entire world revolves around him.

• Make a card confessing your love for him. Remember the card should be made by you. He will forever appreciate the efforts.
In a modern society where life is busy, we hardly have a time to focus entirely on a single person. Give your spouse the gift of time above all.