Making the most of Valentine's Day

Written by Christine Traub in Events, Insight on 3 February 2011

heart Love it or hate it, Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, so to mark the occasion we’ve been in touch with some advertisers to see what they’re doing to celebrate the occasion. We’ve received some unusual gifts ideas from Red Letter Days, news on a great competition from Debenhams and tips from Warehouse on what to wear on the day (sorry guys this one is more for the ladies).

Valentine’s Day in numbers

Although a lot of people are somewhat sceptical about Valentine’s Day and the original meaning of the celebration has been long forgotten, figures suggest that an increasing number of people are celebrating. In 2010 the average online spend in the run up to Valentine’s Day was 65% higher than in 2009. Moreover the average online order in the period from 1 February to 14 February totaled a massive £150.15, up 66% from the previous year*.

So whether you decide to join or abstain from Valentine’s celebrations, it is important for retailers to make considered plans for one of the busiest retail periods in the year. What makes Valentine’s Day different to other events, such as Christmas, is the short purchasing window. Consumers tend to purchase last minute, with 11th February being the busiest day. Therefore it is important to take these factors into considerations when planning, in particular for last order dates, late delivery and stock levels. Red Letter Days offer a great example of this, enabling last minute thinkers to buy gifts and receive online vouchers on the day.

Traditional Valentine’s gifts

If you’re stuck for ideas this Valentine’s we’ve put together a list of gifts that some of our advertisers have on offer. There’s a whole host of gifts, days out and romantic getaways to choose from.

Romantic getaways with Barceló Hotels UK
Debenhams gift ideas for him and for her
She’ll love and he’ll love from Next
Love her and love him gift ideas from Matalan
Valentine’s Day special offers from Red Letter Days
Swarovski gift shop

Something a bit more unusual

If red roses and heart-shaped chocolates aren’t your thing, Red Letter Days have put together an array of ‘unusual and unique’ gift experiences for couples to enjoy together. So whether your partner is a thrill seeker, a food lover or a romantic at heart there is something for everyone. Here are our favourite picks of their unusual experiences…

If jewellery is more your thing…

As well as offering a selection of lingerie, fragrance, jewellery and more, this year Debenhams are running a Valentine’s competition with designer Eric van Peterson to win a personally-engraved 18 carat and diamond heart pendant worth £1000. All you have to do is to write ten words or less that sum up your most passionate, romantic, thought. The winner will receive confirmation of their win in time for Valentine’s Day. Good luck everyone!

What to wear?

Whatever your plans this Valentine’s Day make sure you stand out in style. Warehouse have offered their top picks of what to wear including taking inspiration from the 70s with this seasons essential flared shorts and something glam for your Valentine’s date.