Valentine's Day

Not that you need reminding but tomorrow is Valentine’s Day which in my opinion is just a terrible day for too many reasons. It’s a day often filled with too much pressure to come up with the right gift and what about those who are alone when it comes to love…what a horrible reminder of what they don’t have. It seemed like there was a time when it was somewhat of a cute holiday that has now taken on a life of its own.,…I mean the hype for it started the day after Christmas.

If you really think about it Valentine’s Day is one that’s been promoted endlessly by those who figure to gain the most… from Hallmark cards to florists, jewelers, restaurants and others. Even in a bad economy we are expected to spend $14.7 billion this year…that’s an average of $102.50 from each US consumer. Leading the way are married people with children who will spend about $67 on their spouse. The remainder goes to gifts for kids, friends, co-workers and even pets.

58% of us will send at least one greeting card and it’s the biggest holiday for that industry outside of Christmas with 190 million cards being sent and that does not include all the ones schoolchildren will exchange.

Nearly 46% of us will give candy with most of that being sales of chocolate, which has been associated with romance since the 15th century. Of course don’t forget those little, chalky hearts with messages like “Kiss Me” and “Be Mine.” 8 million of those suckers will be made this year.

Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day are the biggest holidays of the year for giving flowers and about 110 million roses, mostly red, will be sold and delivered within a 3-day time period this weekend. 73% of those buying flowers are men.

By the way, a common misconception is that THE Valentine’s Day massacre took place in Chicago in 1929. That might be the most celebrated but it actually takes place every year featuring men who forget to observe the holiday.