Valentine’s Day is a time to show people in your life how much you care about them. Many are ready to spend big money this Valentine’s Day to prove that, but is the day really worth the hype?
Valentine’s Day has become a popular time for gift-giving among people and the amount people are willing to spend has increased over the years. According to the National Retail Federation, Valentine’s Day spending reached a record high of $19.2 billion in 2016.
Some argue that the holiday has become overrated, too commercialized and no longer focused on the true meaning of the day: love.
“I feel like Valentine’s Day is more than a box of candy and a card,” said Hunter Carnley, a student at UNF. “I feel like we are capitalizing off of emotions and using the strong phrase of ‘I love you’ even though we don’t mean it.”
Carnley was not alone in his feelings toward companies commercializing the popular holiday.
“It is too commercial, too overrated,” said student Barbara Howard. “People are using it as an excuse to buy presents.”
“People should treat their significant other good year ‘round; not just on Valentine’s Day,” she continued.
While some Ospreys might feel this way, others do not share those feelings.
“Valentine’s Day is special and it’s about love,” said freshman Brittany Depass. “So what if people buy gifts and spend money as way to show their appreciation, you know? No one is saying birthdays or Christmas are overrated and people spend money during those times. In the end it’s the thought that counts.”
Some people walk the line on Valentine’s Day between overrated and all-for-it.
Freshman communication major Gavin Torres sees both sides of the story.
“It’s understandable people make money off Valentine’s Day,” he said. “Gifts can help people who are less creative with ideas on what to do. I’m indifferent about it.”
So do you feel Valentine’s Day is overrated? Let us know below.
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