Valentine's Spending Throughout the Years

Valentine's Day is a day of love and a day of spending! According to Nasdaq, the average consumer spends almost $200, including gifts for partners, family members, friends, children, classmates, and even pets.¹ But how does this compare to spending over the years?

In this blog post, we’ll explore the fascinating journey of Valentine’s Day spending, examining how it has transformed over the decades. 

A Valentine’s Day History

To understand the evolution of Valentine’s Day spending, let’s delve into its historical origins. The day is named after St. Valentine, a Christian martyr who lived during the Roman Empire.² It wasn’t until the fourteenth century that the day became associated with love and romance. The first written Valentine’s Day greetings date back to the fifteenth century.

Early Valentine’s Day Celebrations

In the early nineteenth century, the tradition of exchanging handmade cards gained popularity.³ People called these cards “valentines” and adorned them with lace, ribbons, and intricate designs. The sentiment behind the celebration remained simple yet profound: expressing love through heartfelt messages. During this era, people often created handmade gifts, reflecting the personal touch that defined the celebration.

The Rise of Commercialization

As the twentieth century unfolded, Valentine’s Day underwent a significant transformation. Mass-produced cards, chocolates, and flowers became widely available, marking the beginning of the commercialization of the holiday. The convenience of store-bought gifts led to a surge in spending as consumers embraced ready-made expressions of love.

Advertising’s Influence

The latter half of the twentieth century saw the rise of advertising campaigns that reinforced the idea that extravagant gifts equated with deep love. Jewelry, especially diamonds, became a popular Valentine’s Day gift, perpetuated by successful marketing strategies.

Experiential Gifts

In recent years, there has been a shift toward more personalized and experiential gifts. Consumers increasingly value unique experiences over traditional material gifts. Consumer Reports found that 66% of people between the ages of twenty-five and thirty-four would rather receive an experiential gift than a tangible item.⁴ Personalized items, such as custom jewelry or unique, handcrafted gifts, have gained popularity as people seek meaningful ways to express their love.

The evolution of Valentine’s Day spending reflects not only changes in consumer behavior but also broader cultural shifts over time. From simple handwritten notes to elaborate, commercialized expressions of love, the celebration has evolved in response to societal changes, technological advancements, and shifting values. Ultimately, whether through grand gestures or simpler choices, the essence of Valentine’s Day remains rooted in the celebration of love and connection.