Every February, store shelves turn pink and red with heart shaped candy boxes, teddy bears and bouquets of roses. But behind the chocolate and balloons, Valentine’s Day means something different to everyone; for some students, it’s about cute and sentimental gifts. For others, it’s about practical gifts they can use long after the holiday is over.
Some students light up at the thought of classical Valentine’s presents, especially ones that feel thoughtful.
Lyla Fernandez (11) says, “My favorite Valentine’s Day gift is probably any kind of flowers and a stuffed animal, they have a really soft place in my heart and bring me comfort. I think Valentine’s Day themed stuffed animals are just adorable.”
Instead of focusing on trendy gifts, many people value gifts that carry an emotional meaning to them.
Fernandez says, “I think my favorite gift would have to be a fruit bouquet I got one time. It was super pretty and I’m a big fan of fruit so it was really sweet and it was gone in about 20 minutes.”
This perspective reflects how many students view Valentine’s Day. Instead of a holiday that demands big spending, the holiday is all about showing affection in ways that feel genuine. A bouquet of flowers or a soft teddy bear can serve as a reminder that someone is thinking about you.
Fernandez says, “I don’t think that there’s really any particular gift that can be over done.”
That sense of romance doesn’t have to mean expensive jewelry or fancy dinners, especially for students. In many ways, the day is just as much about friendship as it is about couples.
Walking through stores in early February, it’s easy to see why stuffed animals and flowers remain popular. These items feel festive yet not excessive, making them perfect for classmates or close friends.
Naomi Pospisil (10) says, “I would rather receive a practical gift because it can still be heartfelt in its own way and it shows that you know me and the gift is useful.”
Pospisil continues, “I would rather receive jewelry because it is something I can wear everyday and use it for a long time while flowers just die.”
Some people don’t feel pressure to celebrate the holiday with friends.
Pospisil says, “I would probably not celebrate Valentine’s Day with friends because there are other holidays in the year I can give gifts to them.”
Most people still enjoy the classical traditions that come with Valentine’s Day.
Pospisil says, “Candy grams on Valentine’s Day are not outdated because it can be very fun with friends.”
Whether students prefer sweet treats or something cute and romantic, one theme stays consistent: a thoughtful gift shows someone you truly care about them.
In the end Valentine’s Day isn’t about how much you spend. It’s about choosing something that makes the person receiving it feel known and appreciated.
