Collection: Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is linked to love and romance due to legends surrounding St Valentine, a 3rd-century Roman saint who defied orders and performed Christian marriage ceremonies for young lovers.

The 19th century saw a rise in commercially produced Valentine’s cards and the popularisation of traditional gifting, such as flowers and confectioneries, in Britain.

St Valentine is believed to have been executed around 270 AD on 14th February, a date now commemorated as Valentine’s Day.

The origins of Valentine’s Day are believed to trace back to 5th century Rome when the pagan feast of Lupercalia was converted to a Christian tradition.

St Valentine defied Emperor Claudius II's orders against marrying young couples, believing it was unjust to keep lovers apart, ultimately leading to his association with love and matrimony.