The History of Valentine’s Day and Why It’s the Perfect Day for Proposals

As February approaches, hearts start fluttering, and love fills the air in anticipation of Valentine’s Day. The season of romance is marked by roses, chocolates, and heartfelt gestures, but have you ever wondered about the origins of this beloved holiday? Who was Saint Valentine, and why do we celebrate on February 14th? Join us as we take a journey through time to uncover the captivating history of Valentine’s Day and explore why it continues to be the perfect occasion for proposals.

The Origins of Valentine’s Day

Saint Valentine, a priest living in Rome during the third century, played a pivotal role in shaping the holiday we know today. Emperor Claudius II, known for his military conquests, believed that unmarried men made better soldiers and thus outlawed marriage for young men in his army. However, Valentine, inspired by his deep belief in love, defied the emperor’s decree and continued to marry couples in secret. His courageous acts of love didn’t go unnoticed for long.

When Emperor Claudius discovered Valentine’s defiance, he was enraged. Valentine was arrested and thrown into prison, where he formed a bond with the jailer's daughter. They fell deeply in love, and as his fate grew inevitable, Valentine sent a note to his beloved, signed "From your Valentine," a phrase that lives on to this day as a way to express affection.

The date of February 14th is believed to have special significance. Some believe it coincides with the martyrdom of Saint Valentine, while others think it was chosen to align with or even replace the ancient Roman festival of Lupercalia, a pagan celebration of fertility and matchmaking. Pope Gelasius I, in an effort to suppress the pagan festival, declared February 14th as Saint Valentine’s Day, transforming it into a celebration of love and affection.

With the end of the pagan rituals, the day took on a more wholesome tone. Instead of feasts and sacrifices, Valentine’s Day became a time for exchanging tokens of love, such as flowers, chocolates, and jewellery, symbolising tender expressions of affection rather than fertility rites.

Valentine’s Day Today

In the present day, Valentine’s Day serves as a global celebration of love, unity, and companionship. While the way we celebrate may have evolved, the essence of the holiday remains the same: a day dedicated to cherishing the people we love and deepening the connections that bind us together. Whether through handwritten notes, thoughtful gifts, or intimate gestures, Valentine’s Day is about expressing heartfelt sentiments and honouring the people who make our lives richer.

As we exchange cards and tokens of affection, we honour the legacy of Saint Valentine, who defied the odds in the name of love. But Valentine’s Day is also a perfect occasion to take your relationship to the next level, and there’s no better time than now to pop the question.

Why a Valentine’s Day Proposal Is Special

Proposing on Valentine’s Day combines the magic of the day with the everlasting commitment of love. It’s a moment that is etched in memory forever — a day dedicated to love, when all hearts are already full, making it even more meaningful. Valentine’s Day proposals are the ultimate way to show your partner that they are the centre of your world and the one with whom you want to share a lifetime of love.

With the romance of the day already in the air, it makes the proposal even more unforgettable. Whether you’re planning a grand gesture or an intimate, quiet moment, a Valentine’s Day proposal gives you the chance to celebrate your love in a way that feels both special and significant. And when you present your partner with a beautifully crafted engagement ring, it makes the moment all the more extraordinary.

Find the Perfect Engagement Ring with Morgan & Co.

At Morgan & Co., we understand that the perfect engagement ring is as unique as the love story behind it. Our bespoke jewellery services are designed to help you create a custom engagement ring that suits your partner’s style, personality, and the life you plan to share together.

As we approach Valentine’s Day, let us assist you in finding the ring that will make your proposal truly unforgettable. Whether you're looking for a timeless classic or a modern design, our expert team can guide you through every step of the process. We are Australian designed and made, so we can ensure that your engagement ring is crafted to perfection and ready just in time for your special moment.

We take pride in offering a personalised experience, whether you need help choosing the perfect diamond or designing a custom setting that captures your love story. Our dedicated team will work closely with you to create a ring that symbolises your commitment and the love you share, making your Valentine’s Day proposal even more meaningful.

A Valentine’s Day Proposal to Remember

So, as we reflect on the history of Valentine’s Day, we are reminded of the enduring power of love to transcend time and place. From Saint Valentine’s courageous acts of defiance to today’s heartfelt exchanges of love, Valentine’s Day continues to be a timeless reminder of the beauty and resilience of the human heart.

Whether you are planning to propose on this special day or simply share your love through thoughtful gestures, Valentine’s Day is a perfect occasion to express the depth of your affection. And with Morgan & Co., we’ll help you make your Valentine’s Day proposal as extraordinary as the love you share.

As you search for the perfect engagement ring, let us guide you through the journey, ensuring that this Valentine’s Day is one to remember forever.

With Love,
Morgan