In the United States, the fascination with this holiday persisted as a means of connection. “As Americans, we grapple with our identity post the American Revolution; we distance ourselves from English roots, yet we hold a deep affection for all things English,” she noted. The tradition of Valentine’s Day in the U.S. has a historical backdrop with celebrations dating back to the 18th century.
“We have exquisite handmade valentines, particularly from the Pennsylvania Dutch region,” Nelson remarked. These valentines were intricate creations, unfolding like puzzles to reveal hidden messages. With the advent of printing by stationers in the early 19th century, Valentine’s Day gained popularity in a manner recognizable today.
Renowned artist Walter Crane’s depiction of Valentine in 1876 showcases the evolving artistry associated with the holiday. Esther Howland, hailed as the “mother of the American valentine,” revolutionized the craft by incorporating layers of lace paper and printed images, creating stunning three-dimensional effects that gained popularity after 1850.
Howland, daughter of a Massachusetts stationer and a graduate of Mount Holyoke College, initiated a business of crafting valentines in her family parlor. By the 1870s, she established a successful enterprise, passing it on to entrepreneur George Whitney. Her influence shaped the aesthetic of Victorian valentines that endures to this day.
The 19th century bore witness to the rise of secret admirer valentines, alongside a growing dislike for the holiday. Anonymous valentines introduced complexities to the tradition, with individuals having differing reactions based on the sender’s identity. The era also saw the emergence of “vinegar valentines” or “cruel valentines” — printed poems with derogatory messages, often targeting personal flaws.
Despite the persistence of clever and derisive valentines, love and friendship remain at the heart of the holiday. For artist Vanna Black, Valentine’s Day signifies a time for reflection and communal celebration in a turbulent society. Black’s personal connection to the day, marked by the loss of her mother in 1999, fuels her artistic endeavors aimed at fostering unity and love within her community.
In 2025, Black showcased her artwork at a Valentine’s Day pop-up in Atlanta, joining other local artists in embracing the spirit of the holiday. From sculptures to florals and unconventional jewelry, the event encapsulated a modern take on Valentine’s Day while nodding to the whimsical and dark elements reminiscent of Victorian times.
To infuse vitality into it, so that it would effectively complement Black’s pieces. Her vibrant cards and posters emanated her uplifting messages, such as “We have eternal love” and “Celebrating you.” One design boldly declared, “You are the loveliest flower among all.” Vanna Black’s Valentine’s Day artworks feature affectionate messages and vivid illustrations. “I desired to pay tribute to her in this manner,” Black explained. “I needed to find a way to transform it into something positive rather than negative.”
Valentine’s Day has given rise to “Galentine’s Day.” During this time, “Galentine” groups composed of friends, women, and sometimes men who are single, come together to spend quality time and honor their platonic loved ones—typically on February 13—drawing inspiration from an episode of the sitcom “Parks and Recreation.” Businesses have taken note of this trend and are accommodating those interested in engaging in a real-life version of the celebration.
This year, jewelry designer Malik Waseem Shuler of Urbane Jewelry Studio is organizing a Galentine’s jewelry-making happy hour at Atlanta’s “Kitty Dare” Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, incorporating crystals into the event. “It’s the start of an eventful year,” Schuler remarked. “I believe that many could benefit from some positive vibes.” Shuler aims to promote the appreciation and nurturing of all types of relationships this Valentine’s Day—a sentiment that is gaining popularity.
“Often, our friends remain in our lives longer than a romantic partner,” Shuler noted. “Thus, I will lead the workshop, assisting individuals in imbuing intentionality into their crystals and the unique pieces they are creating.” “I will bring plenty of rose quartz to attract love. I have garnet and obsidian stones for protection against negative energies. We also have amethyst, renowned for bringing peace and tranquility,” Shuler added.
Regardless of its origins, Valentine’s Day continues to celebrate friendship and romance. Even though the holiday may now seem more focused on gifts than other expressions of love, it continues to unite Americans. “There is a commercial aspect to Valentine’s, but there is also the humanistic side where love is enduring,” Vanna Black emphasized. “It never fades, it never stops, it continues to grow. Love is eternal.”
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