So, everyone knows that February 14th is Valentine’s Day, and what that means for most of Western culture is that we celebrate love. We try to wow our significant others, or pursue one by sharing cards, chocolates, candies, and whatnot to declare our affections.

But, there are some facts about this swoon-worthy day you may not know:

1. While the origins of the day have become muddled over the ages, the most popular explanation involves Bishop Valentine (who was made a saint following his execution) who went against Roman Emperor Claudius II’s wishes and performed secret weddings for soldiers during wartime.

Claudius thought marriage was a distraction, thus the ban. Can you imagine a world where marriage is banned? Instagram likebait and Pinterest boards would look rather different, don’t you think?

2. Remember Romeo and Juliet? Well, the Italian city of Verona gets over 1000 Valentines cards every single year for poor doomed Juliet. They do know she was a fictional character, right?

3. Doctors in the 1800s recommended patients eat chocolate to help them get over their pining for lost or unrequited love. Maybe that’s where we got the idea that we should eat chocolate when we are sad?

4. 15% of women in the US send themselves flowers on Valentine’s Day. No word on whether or not they have a significant other when they do. If they do, my goodness. Their partners need to step up their game just a few dozen shades.

5. 50 million roses are sold for Valentine’s Day alone. The rest that are sold throughout the year are probably sold after a big fight – probably the fallout from fact #4.

6. The owner of Cadbury Chocolate (Richard Cadbury) was the first to sell a Valentine’s candy box in 1861. And we’re all a few pounds heavier for it. Thank you, Richard!

7. The oldest known love poem was found engraved on a Sumerian clay tablet. The Sumerians were responsible for the first known writings. If they can write a poem with such a primitive language, surely you can write one with the entirety of the modern English language!

8. Americans spend over $700 million on their pets per year for Valentine’s Day. Try explaining THAT to your financial advisor. Kidding – our furbabies are family.

In all seriousness, if you’re going to spend that much on your pets, imagine what you could do for yourself with the right plan!

Here at Money & Clarity, our game is finances. Whether your goal is spending a small fortune on your pet on Valentine’s day, paying off that lingering debt, saving for a house or retirement, we can help you create and execute your plan. Give us a call today at 513-563-PLAN (7526) or go online to book a chat to discuss your financial future.

Regards,
Nikki Earley, CFP®