The Valentines Day story is one filled with intrigue, mystery and of course love. It has been said that Valentines Day was started as far back as the days of the Roman Empire. February the 14th was a day to honor the Queen of the Roman Gods and Goddesses who was known as Juno. She was also known as the goddess of women and marriage. This is merely the start of such romantic holiday. The following day was the start of a celebration known as the Feast of Lupercia.

Legend has it that all unmarried young people would come together to write down the names of all of the young maidens. The names were placed in a vessel and the single young men would pick a name from the pot. The chosen lady was to be the mans partner during the festival and would attend the festivities with him. If this pairing lasted for a year or more they would most likely marry.

Claudius banned these rituals saying that this was the reason men didnt want to go off to war. They were reluctant to leave there lovers. This resulted in Claudius banning all marriages as well as engagements. A Roman priest named Saint Valentine was said to come to the rescue. He married the lovers in secret. He was found out and as a result of his labor of love he was jailed. Some say that while the Saint was imprisoned he fell in love with the blind daughter of the jailer. Saint Valentine prayed for her and she regained her sight. I like to think it was also because he loved her so much. Either version you choose the story has an unfortunate end. Saint Valentine was executed on February the 14th.

Todays celebrations may not have as much drama but it is a day of romance. It is a day many women anxiously await. Whether you decide to send flowers, take her to dinner or send her a gift basket she will be thrilled. Let her know how much you care.

Passionate Petals: The Flowers of Valentines Day

Today flowers and Valentines Day go hand in hand. Red roses are by far the most popular choice for this day. They are also most often the first flower one thinks of when love is mentioned. Red roses themselves are symbols of love and passion. White roses are symbols of purity and are used to send the message of "I am worthy of you". For more information on rose and other flower meanings please see our flower meanings section.
If roses arent her taste dont worry. There are plenty of other arrangements that are beautiful as well as romantic. Other flowers have romantic meanings as well. For example alstroemeria which is used in many of our arrangements is a symbol of devotion. Carnations which are also a common flower we use symbolize lasting fidelity, deep love and fascination. Orchids are a symbol of rare beauty and rare love. And tulips are a symbol of perfect love.

No matter the choice of flowers she is sure to love them. She is also sure to look back on this Valentines Day with fond memories for many years to come.