Valentine’s Day 2025: A Celebration of Love or Just Another Marketing Gimmick?

February brings a lot of emotions. For some, it's the month of love, and for some, it's just another month in the calendar. Over the years, the Day of love has changed from being a personal and intimate occasion to an extravaganza of consumerism, elaborate proposals, and meticulously curated Instagram posts. Has Valentine’s Day lost its true meaning? The answer, for many, is a yes!

How Has Love Been Commercialised?

Valentine's Day has changed from a day of showing love to a money-making machine. From overpriced bouquets and five-star dinners to designer gifts and extravagant vacations, love now has a hefty price tag attached to it. The deeper the pockets, the grander the gesture—at least, that’s what brands want us to believe.

So what's really happening? Everyone is running towards likes and approvals from strangers on social media. Marketing campaigns start rolling out weeks before February 14th, subtly (or not so subtly) pressuring people into believing that their love must be displayed through expensive gifts.

What’s worse? Many couples feel obligated to partake in this over-the-top spending spree, fearing judgment if they don’t meet the expectations set by social media and mainstream culture. The idea of a simple, heartfelt celebration is nearly extinct.

Is Social Media The Real Culprit?

If you are not sharing your pictures with your loved one and showing off what you gave your other half on Valentine’s Day, did the celebrations even happen?

Scrolling through social media on February 14th is like watching a highlight reel of the most picture-perfect moments—fancy date nights, grand flower arrangements, luxury gifts, and emotional captions about “the best partner in the world.” While there’s nothing wrong with sharing happiness, it often creates competition and feelings of jealousy.

Many people now celebrate Valentine’s Day more for the ‘gram than for their actual partner. Be it for the likes or the clout, love has to be Instagram-approved!

How Can We Do Things Differently?

So, how can we reclaim the true essence of Valentine’s Day? How do we move past the social media showoff and excessive spending?

Here are some three useful tips:

Stay Off Social Media

Instead of worrying about taking the perfect couple’s selfie, unplug from social media and spend quality, uninterrupted time with your loved one. Real connections happen in real life, not on a screen.

Get Personalised Gifts

A handwritten letter, a home-cooked meal, or a playlist of meaningful songs holds far more sentimental value than a brand-name item. Love isn’t about money; it’s about thoughtfulness.

Valentine’s Day – Not Just For Couples

Valentine’s Day isn’t just for couples. Celebrate your friendships, family, and self-love. A solo spa day, a movie night with friends, or a heartfelt call to your parents can be just as fulfilling.