February remains an iconic month for many people who are in love.
It is a month that many celebrate love, renew their vows and even commit to stick together forever.
For couples, Valentine’s Day held on February 14, is the climax of the month of love
The day is approached with deliberate efforts to shine, celebrate and cherish romantic memories.
To many, gifts that leave indelible marks in the hearts of their loved ones must be shared on this Valentine’s Day, as a gesture of commitment and a promise to continuously value their relationship.
Peter Maina, a resident of Nairobi, said Valentine’s Day is a day to appreciate your loved ones and not necessarily your lover.
”To me, it does not mean that you have to gift your lover. It’s just a day set aside to appreciate your friend. It can be a colleague, your boss, parent, spouse or a family relative,” Maina said.
He added that the appreciation should depend on one’s financial abilities.
“For me, a dinner, watching a movie and a road trip would suffice,” he added.
For David, buying a thoughtful gift like a flower or chocolate for his girlfriend is an ideal gesture.
For Nahida, Valentine’s season is a moment when one should prioritise self-love first before appreciating others.
While flowers and gifts are crucial in spicing up the day, individuals must remember to love and cherish themselves.
“It is important to value yourself and prioritise your health. This is essential in making sure that even as you enter a relationship, you are not upset by setbacks,” she said.
But even as couples ponder on how to spend Valentine’s Day, Ruth Wanjiku, a florist, will always long for the day with an expectation of making a killing.
It is a good opportunity for her to earn more and balance her financial health.
”I love my customers and that’s why I tend to them to satisfy their needs,” Wanjiku, who sells flowers in Westalnds, Nairobi, said.
”Flowers today are in huge demand and therefore I will spend the day serving my customers.”
How to celebrate Valentine’s Day
There is no wrong way to celebrate Valentine’s Day.
You can book tickets for a night out whether it is for a movie, play or concert. Make sure you buy the tickets early to avoid last-minute panics.
Whatever you choose, be sure to dress up and take a picture together at some point in the night.
The tradition has been a meal at a nice restaurant but you can pull a twist and instead make meals at home.
You can choose to ignore your phones and instead spend the day together, talking about your present and future.
You might also like to create a soundtrack with both of your favourite songs and dance through the list.
Lovers can also decide to recreate their favourite date.
Do not forget a wrapped gift or a bouquet. You can get care packages for each other.
