The significance of Valentine’s Day and how you can celebrate in Dubai in 2021
Today, Valentine’s or St. Valentine’s Day is celebrated across the world on 14th February. Couples display their affection towards each other with flowers, chocolates, sharing messages of love and wearing colourful red/pink attire. But how did this day come to fruition? And how did it become such a significant (and let's not lie, sometimes dreaded) time of the year?
Valentine’s Day Origins
There are several stories as to how Valentine’s Day originated. We know that its roots come from Rome. The most popular belief is that St. Valentine was a priest in Rome in the 3rd Century around 270 AD and his tale was bittersweet.
The ruler at the time was Emperor Claudius II. He had banned marriages among men as he believed that marriage made men weak and would refrain from joining the emperors' army because they were attached to their wives and family. St. Valentine felt sorry for those who were in love and considered the act unfair. Hence, he went against the emperors' wishes and officiated weddings for young lovers in secret.
When the emperor found out, he threw St. Valentine in jail and was sentenced to death on February 14th. St. Valentine gained affection for the jailors' daughter while he was in imprisoned. It is believed that before St. Valentines was executed, he had sent a letter to the daughter signed, “From Your Valentine”.
St. Valentine's date of death mingled with the pagan festival of Lupercalia, a festival of love celebrated on February 14th. Pope Gelasius later declared that February 14th should be celebrated as St. Valentine’s Day.
Fun Fact: The first Valentine’s Day was celebrated in the year 496 AD!
Why are red and pink intertwined with Valentine’s Day?
The colour red has been associated with romance for so long that any other colour just doesn’t feel right. Red represents passion, desire and love. It is the colour of the blood that pumps through our heart. Red is considered to be special and luxurious. Throughout history 'red' dyes were very difficult to obtain, hence they were expensive to buy when they were available. Since only the rich were able to afford it, soon red became a symbol of wealth. It was exciting and exclusive.
Even in Greek mythology red roses are associated with Aphrodite, the goddess of love. So, the connection between love and the colour red is further integrated into human culture.
Pink shortly came later in the timeline of romance. It came with the combination of the colours, red and white. White represents purity and innocence. That, mixed with the hot passion of red, symbolizes a more tender form of love.
Celebrate Valentine’s Day 2021 in Dubai
It doesn’t matter whether you are living together or quarantined separately, there’s always a way to make your other half feel special on Valentine’s Day. Luckily, we have some amazing #CoffeeCommsClients to offer you unique ways to display some wholesome affection to your valentine this year.
Valentine’s Day Sweetness from Sugargram!
What's better than a love letter? A Candy-gram! Sugargram’s limited edition collection of premium handmade candy and chocolate is the new definition of “Love at First Bite”. Each piece comes with its own special message as well as an exciting sweet or sour flavour. You can also express your love with a customizable box of delectable and heavenly itty-bitty cupcakes. The taste of cupcake city will definitely set the mood for the rest of the evening. Order your valentine something special from Sugargram through Deliveroo or ChatFood!
BB Social Dining’s Quarantine Cupid and Valentine’s Menu
If you're still looking for a Valentine's Day date, BB Social Dining is here to help out. BB is playing 'Quarantine Cupid' to help match up a few lucky pairs for a romantic dinner date at their DIFC restaurant. Their special "Love Lockdown" pairs you with your perfect match, based on answers to questions from their Instagram stories. Will true love blossom this Valentine’s Day? Only one way to find out!
For those who already have their dates sorted, head to BB to enjoy a romantically curated menu at AED 290 per person. Enjoy delectable Caviar Bao Blinis, Wagyu Beef Tartare, Mini Lobster Baos and more as Mains that are sure to impress. Finally, end your meal with a little extra love with the special Bao-nut Ice Cream Sando that is perfect for sharing. Don't forget to try the limited edition 'Love Potion' cocktail to help your night go a little smoother.
Lacoste Valentine’s Day Fragrances
Lacoste encapsulates love in a bottle with fragrances for him and her to compliment your Valentine’s Day outfit. For the ladies, the L.12.12 Sparkling Eau de Toilette creates a cool, elegant yet stylish addition to glam up your evening look. The notes of floral/fruity, red apple, blackberry, French macaroon accord and Lily-of-the-valley are a perfect blend that oozes femininity.
For the gentlemen, The L.12.12 Pour Lui Noir is a powerful scent that exudes confidence to a romantic dinner thanks to the notes of watermelon, verbena, dark chocolate accord and patchouli. The Pour Lui Blanc, on the other hand, is a crisp, day scent that is perfect for a night in with your ultimate masculine fragrances.
The perfumes are available for purchase at Lacoste stores across Dubai as well as on their website.
Diamonds Are Forever with La Marquise
Celebrate love with La Marquise this Valentine’s Day with a collection of diamonds and ruby red stones intertwined with touches of gold and white gold. An array of options is available from miniature hoop earrings and standout infinity bracelets to an elegantly layered pendant and radiant ruby sets. For a truly unforgettable Valentine’s Day, La Marquise offers to engrave a special date and name on a ring, pendant or bracelet.
For gentlemen looking to pop the question with a stunning ring, La Marquise has the perfect selection to celebrate your love. Choose from a selection of teardrop and oval rings with ruby red gemstones surrounded by a halo of diamonds available in a range of carat sizes to leave your special lady in awe. Discover their Valentine’s Collection online at lamarquisejewellery.com
Make this Valentine’s Day truly memorable with a gift to cherish and lasts a lifetime.