In defence of Valentine's Day
By Jasmine Catto, Second year Law
The Croft Magazine // Okay, I get it. For some, envisaging Valentine’s Day stirs up that iconic yet tragic scene in Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001) during which Bridget goes heavy on the wine and performs an interesting karaoke attempt at ‘All By Myself’ by Céline Dion.
For others, the thought of witnessing shops brimming with roses, chocolates and teddy bears holding love hearts, or yet another loved-up couple flaunting their perfect date night on Instagram, quite simply brings up last nights dinner.
If this is you, read on to discover how Valentine’s is not an occasion to be dreaded but celebrated by everyone, regardless of relationship status.
Galentine’s
The concept of Galentine’s Day originated from an episode of Parks and Recreation (2009-2015) in which Leslie Knope announces a resolve to celebrate the platonic yet immeasurable love between gals and their pals. In the episode, it only seemed apt that this celebration should take the form of the bedrock of female friendship – boozy brunch!
Despite its fictional roots, Galentine’s Day has quickly become a popular trend amongst real women and is typically celebrated on 13 February. So, whether it’s (virtual) cocktails and dancing on tables or a chick flick Netflix party and cracking open the ice cream, commemorating love with your best girlfriends will be sure to rid you of your Valentine’s-phobia.
Discounts: From Italian food to lingerie - Take advantage!
In the words of Julie Walters in Mamma Mia! (2008), ‘I’m beginning to think my soulmate may actually be carbs.’ If the way to your heart is through your stomach, another reason to love Valentine’s Day is the restaurant offers and deals! Whilst this year those romantic dinner dates may be swapped for a couch Deliveroo date, all hope is not lost. Last year, Just Eat gave a 15% off discount for all orders on Valentine’s Day. So keep your eyes peeled for deals, grab your significant other or your bestie and eat to your heart’s delight.
If your heart lies not with food but fashion, you can get in on the benefits too. Plenty of shops offer amazing new ranges and occasional deals around the Valentine’s Day period (P.S. Nasty Gal currently have a killer sale on - thank me later. Even if your bank account doesn’t…!). So, if for no other reason, use Valentine’s Day as an excuse to treat your partner or yourself with a new wardrobe addition or two!
Can you really blame them?
At the end of the day, putting aside the PDA and cringe-worthy nature of it all, can you really blame people for celebrating a day dedicated to love? Whether for a partner, friend, family member, or even yourself, a small act of affection goes a long way. After all, if I learned anything from this year’s John Lewis Christmas advert, it’s that the world needs a little love, this year more than ever.
Featured Image: Epigram / Jasmine Catto
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