From Ancient Rome to Modern Love
Valentine’s Day, celebrated on February 14, is all about love, romance, and a whole lot of heart-shaped everything. But where did this day of chocolates, roses, gifting and grand gestures actually come from?
It is not all about Cupid’s arrows and love notes. Its history is a mix of ancient legends, religious significance, and a touch of commercial flair.
The Romantic Story begins
February 14 was not about love. It was part of a fertility festival in ancient Rome. These rituals were meant to ensure health and fertility. One ritual involved pairing young men and women; talk about an old-school dating app!
Who Was Saint Valentine?
The most popular tale involves a priest named Valentine, who lived during the reign of Emperor Claudius II in the 3rd century. According to legend, Emperor Claudius banned marriage for young men, believing single soldiers fought better. The priest, Valentine, defied this order, secretly performing marriages for couples in love. When his actions were discovered, he was imprisoned and ultimately executed on, you guessed it, February 14.
Before his death, he supposedly wrote a letter to the jailer’s daughter, signed “From your Valentine.” Sound familiar?
The Pope then declared February 14th as Saint Valentine's Day.
From Saints to Sweethearts
In the 15th century, people started to exchange handmade love notes, which began the Valentine's card tradition.
As we fast forward to each era, we see the boom in gifting.
Fun Facts About Valentine’s Day
Approximately 145 million Valentine’s cards are exchanged annually, making it the second most popular card-giving holiday after Christmas.
Cupid, the mischievous cherub, traces back to Eros, the Greek god of love.
Valentine’s Day is celebrated differently worldwide. Japan and South Korea focus on gifting chocolates, while Denmark exchanges pressed white flowers called snowdrops.
From its ancient Roman beginnings to the heartfelt traditions, we know today, Valentine’s Day has transformed into a universal celebration of love in all its forms. So, whether you are showering a partner with gifts, such as a Stellar Omnia Styler® or indulging in a bit of self-love (hello, spa day!), remember that you are taking part in a tradition thousands of years in the making.
Happy Valentine’s Day!
Gift your lover the gift of fabulous hair with a Stellar Omnia® engraved with your lover's name, wrapped in our stunning, elegant wrapping paper with our signature gold and white design and a gift of chocolate. Before gifting this stunning gift why not add a handwritten note expressing how much you love seeing them shine.
With Love from your Valentine, Stellar® 💝