Married couples should practice romance year-round rather than focusing on Valentine's Day
Source: Beth Herman. "Don’t Wait Until Valentine’s Day To Romance Your Spouse." February 13, 2026. thefederalist.com
The Gist
The author argues that married couples shouldn't wait for Valentine's Day to be romantic. Instead, they should show love through creative, personal gestures throughout the year, which are more meaningful than expensive Valentine's Day traditions.
Conclusion
Married couples should celebrate their relationship through creative, personal gestures throughout the year rather than conforming to Valentine's Day conventions
Premises
- Valentine's Day dining and gift-giving has become crowded, overpriced, and commercialized
- Homemade cards and personalized gifts are more meaningful than mass-produced Valentine's items
- Unexpected romantic gestures on random days are more delightful than obligatory holiday gifts
- Regular intimate activities like reading together and cuddling release oxytocin and improve mental health
- Creative, personal expressions of love require more thought and energy, making them more touching
- Celebrating anniversaries with special gifts creates lasting memories tied to meaningful dates
Assumptions
- Meaningful relationships require ongoing effort rather than single-day expressions
- Personal creativity and effort are more valuable than expensive commercial products
- Couples have the autonomy to create their own romantic traditions
- Physical and emotional intimacy benefits from regular practice
- Commercial holidays can detract from authentic relationship expression