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.
