Happy Valentine’s Day readers! Each year, February 14th creates its fair share of controversy; there are the believers and the non-believers and there are the gift receivers and the non-receivers. I can understand those that don’t agree with this tradition, those that make the stand that every day should be a day to show your love and that this celebration is just a promotion for greeting cards companies and florists. But I am also of the opinion that this day is really about celebrating love and taking a moment to show someone you love them, and it doesn’t have to be gimmicky at all.
You don’t have to buy roses which have—over the course of two days—tripled in price. You can pick flowers from your garden or buy a cheaper bunch of flowers (although not carnations). You don’t have to take your partner to an expensive restaurant—his/her favourite home-cooked meal can be just as nice. You don’t have to buy a cheesy greeting card and write an awkward message, make a card or just say what you would write.
I am suggesting a more low-key, creative or thoughtful approach. These heart-shaped shortbreads are an example. Nothing says ‘be mine’ more than making deliciously buttery biscuits with chocolate icing. Plan a picnic. Make a playlist. Cook a nice meal. The possibilities are endless.
In saying all this, I wouldn’t reject my boyfriend if he turned up on my doorstep with two dozen roses, a heart-shaped box of chocolates and a dinner booking at the French Café!