Economics of Valentine’s Day
According to a popular 2015 media news report, Americans spent $17.3 billion in 2014 on jewelry, flowers, candy and other Valentine’s Day gifts. In 2015, it was expected to rise to $19 billion. Interesting statistics on Valentine’s Day spending include:
- The average amount spent is $142.31 by most individuals
- $96.63 is the average expected to be spent on spouses or a significant other
- Americans, age 35 to 44 will spend the most
- Less than half the seniors over the age of 65 will celebrate Valentine’s Day
Facts and Figures of Valentine’s Day Spending
While the jump in spending for Valentine’s Day from 2014 to 2015 is just 2% higher, it does show that even in economically austere times, Valentine’s Day gifts are considered an important symbol of love and/or generosity. Interviews of average individuals by journalists show a slightly different attitude about this particular day. Single men, even those engaged or about to be, consider the expense of Valentine’s Day to be out of control. Single women feel it accentuates their lifestyle as devoid of romance.
The Best Economical Strategy for Valentine’s Day
The depth of expense on Valentine’s Day depends on individual financial resources. Those who feel the celebration of this day has become too commercialized may want to consider other strategies to reduce the economical burden without appearing too mercenary.
The best economical strategy for Valentine’s Day is to consider the recipient of the gift and their particular ideas about this day. For some spouses, a quiet evening together at home with a nice dinner and candlelight might be a better choice than spending $150 for a dozen red roses.
According to one major media source, a 50% hike in the price of roses can be expected on Valentine’s Day in 2015. Jewelry is another costly expense that ranks No. Two, in terms of most popular gifts. Jewelry prices rise 35% around Valentine’s Day. The strategy to use here is to determine if jewelry is necessary or the cost spent on jewelry could be better spent on a special, more memorable evening at a favorite restaurant, concert or other event.
Candy is the other pricey gift most popular on Valentine’s Day. It ranks No. 3 among most popular gifts. Chocolates, ornately packaged, are the top choice. Imported and hand turned chocolates can cost nearly $50 for a single box.
Single is Better on Valentine’s Day
For spouses and those with significant others, the aura of expectation of Valentine’s Day gifts can be quite costly.
Perhaps, single is better. Florists are claiming there’s been a rise in orders for black roses for those about to shed partners. Single is more economical on Valentine’s Day. It can be a wonderful day for singles to be good to themselves. Singles should use the day to treat themselves to things they may have wanted, but never got around to doing or buying. Singles can enjoy a quiet interlude at a luxury spa or plan a special dinner. Nothing precludes a single’s ability to lavish themselves on Valentine’s Day with a box of chocolates, flowers or a piece of jewelry in their price range. In effect, busy singles might arrive at the realization Valentine’s Day is not just a day for couples. It can be the one day singles celebrate being single.