The History and Romance of Valentine’s Day: A Floral Twist
As the busiest day of the year approaches for florists, we thought it’d be fun to take a little stroll through history and uncover the story behind Valentine’s Day. You might be surprised to learn that this romantic holiday has roots in Ancient Rome…
Who Was St. Valentine?
Like many old traditions, the origins of Valentine’s Day are wrapped up in a bit of mystery. Officially, it’s called “St. Valentine’s Day” or “the Feast of St. Valentine,” but who exactly was St. Valentine? Well, that’s where things get interesting—there may have been more than one! The most popular story tells of a clergyman named Valentinus who lived in 3rd-century Rome. He was known for secretly marrying Christian couples, defying an imperial ban that forbade soldiers from getting married. Sadly, his defiance cost him his life, and he was martyred on February 14th. Legend has it that before his execution, he restored the sight of his jailer’s daughter and even sent her a note signed, “From your Valentine.” Sound familiar?
When Did Valentine’s Day Become Romantic?
For a long time, Valentine’s Day wasn’t about love at all. Some theories suggest it was meant to replace the ancient Roman fertility festival, Lupercalia, but modern historians tend to doubt that. Instead, we have a certain poet to thank—Geoffrey Chaucer. In the late 14th century, Chaucer wrote Parliament of Foules, where he linked Valentine’s Day to romance, believing it was the time of year when birds found their mates: “For this was on seynt Volantynys day / Whan euery bryd comyth there to chese his make.” Or in today’s English: “For this was on St. Valentine’s Day, / When every bird comes there to choose his mate.” This is the first recorded mention of Valentine’s Day as a day of love, and the idea caught on quickly, leading to the traditions we know today.
Why Do We Give Flowers on Valentine’s Day?
Fast forward a few centuries, and by the 18th century, people started exchanging love notes—what we now call “Valentines.” The Victorians took it a step further, adding chocolates and, of course, flowers to the mix. Flowers have always been a beautiful way to express emotions, and no flower says “I love you” quite like the red rose. It’s long been a symbol of deep, passionate love, making it the go-to Valentine’s Day flower. But if you’re looking to switch things up, there are plenty of other romantic options. White and red roses together symbolize unity, red tulips represent undying love, and pink carnations are all about admiration and devotion.
Upcoming Events to Celebrate Love and Spring 🌸
🌷 Tulip Pop-Up at Little Sister Dahlonega 🌷
Date: Saturday, March 15th, 2025
Time: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Join us at Little Sister Dahlonega for a special pop-up event featuring Shelly's Garden! Stop by to browse our stunning, beautifully grown tulips, available in vibrant premade bouquets—perfect for brightening your day or sharing with someone special.
✨ No reservation or ticket required! Just swing by, say hello, and take home a touch of spring.
📍 Location: Little Sister Dahlonega, 21 N Grove St Unit A, Dahlonega, GA 30533
We can’t wait to see you there! 🌸
This Valentine’s Day, why not celebrate love with a beautiful bouquet or add a plant to your collection? Whether you’re honoring a loved one or simply appreciating nature, Shelly's Garden has something special to share with you. 💐
🌿 Shelly's Gardens Plant Pop-Up at Little Sister Dahlonega! 🌿
Join us on Friday, April 5th at 11:00 AM as Michelle’s Gardens brings a beautiful selection of plants to Little Sister Dahlonega! 🌸🌱
✨ Plant Varieties Available:
🌿 Coleus
🌿 Begonias
🌿 Herbs
🌿 Petunias
Come browse, shop, and add a touch of greenery to your home or garden! 🌼🌿
📍 Location: Little Sister Dahlonega
📍 Address: 21 North Grove Street, Dahlonega, GA 30533
(Just two doors down from Jethro’s Coffee House!)
Mark your calendars and stop by for a fun, plant-filled morning! 🌱💛
