Popular and innovative, online dating sites have innovated the world of romance. High on the popularity list, online dating is big business. It is a $ 1 billion industry that is thriving because it has provided affordable options to thousands of singles. The projected growth per year is set at 9% with revenues of $516 million coming just from consumer subscriptions.
According to Hitwise a market research firm, online dating is extremely popular and here to stay. In fact online dating often accounts for 1%of internet usage. The business has moved with need. Extremely popular are niche sites that focus on religion, ethnicity, or special interests.
Many sites promote social networking and offer music, games, interactive content and more. This appeals to youngsters aged 18-24. There is no pressure to date or find a relationship although you are welcome to develop a friendship formed on the site into something deeper.
Extremely professional, online dating sites offer some degree of security, protect your privacy, offer advice on possible matches, guide you on how to navigate the site, and offer exiting things like online discussion groups, cyber messaging with virtual bouquets, and phone calls. The move now expected is to use new technologies to connect people through SMS, mobiles and 3G services.
The concept caught on like wildfire because people were to busy to find time to date, shy to approach strangers, and wary of meeting alone. With online dating a person can log on from the security of his or her own home or office. One can meet as many singles as he or she wants to in a single session.
The costs are much lower than going on a date and one can get to know a person before meeting them. Since online profiles list likes and dislikes and photographs it is possible to pick and choose. A person can avoid the awkwardness of meeting face to face and finding out that the date is just not right.
What more you can date from any corner of the earth and don’t have to be in the same town to get in touch. But as always there are advantages and disadvantages to online dating.
To sustain revenues, the business is looking towards being user friendly; generating revenues from romance related advertisements such as getaways, make overs and so on, and becoming more friendship oriented rather than purely romance oriented.
Sites are offering greater consumer protection and incorporating many news ways to make contact like videos, SMS, MMS, and TV based services. Many even go the extra mile and organize singles events.
There are over 2500 active online dating sites with large ever growing memberships. Although many experts feel the online dating industry is heading for a plateau others predict diversification and great imaginative business modules.
Whatever the prediction online dating sites fulfill a need that other commerce sites don’t. They promote romance and sell dreams.
Friday, August 21, 2009
Thursday, August 20, 2009
The Growth of Hookup Websites: Will They Overtake 'Normal' Online Dating Services?
Do online dating sites have a bad wrap for being hookup sites? Have online dating websites shed their stigma as a place for only the lonely, just to have traded it in for a hookup image?
While it seems like there certainly are websites and services available for people to meet dates for hookups alone, there are also plenty of other types of relationships that can, and have been formed, through online dating services, from friendships, to email correspondence, hookups, casual dates, and even marriage.
The internet is renowned for being a place that has something for everyone. The online dating industry is no exception. Though there are endless options for people seeking other people for various reasons and different types of relationships, it seems to some that there is an overwhelming number of websites offering dates for hookups.
This perception, while accurate in some senses, could also be due, in part, to the different marketing strategies approached by each, and the basic characteristics of companies and people who pursue these types of relationships.
To begin with, the marketing strategies for such websites are often quite aggressive. Though this may be a broad generalization, many websites that are designed to connect people for quick and easy sexual relationships are not as concerned with projecting a specific image, particularly in comparison with dating websites who try to distance themselves from this.
Certainly, many online dating services give their members the option to seek any type of relationship they want, whether that be a casual date, hookup, or long term commitment. However, the majority of these sites don't promote themselves exclusively as hookup sites, and don't pursue marketing strategies that are as aggressive and anonymous.
Most large online dating sites promote themselves as place for people to find love, and follow strict branding strategies. Hookup sites are often smaller companies, and are therefore less anonymous. This could help create the sense that there are many of these hookup services available, when really, this is because it is difficult to identify and differentiate the few that are out there.
The companies and people who are involved in these websites may also contribute to the sense that there are several hookup websites around these days. This may be partly because the companies are not large, recognizable brands.
The influx of hookup sites may also be attributed to the fact that the people who participate in these websites are usually not long term members (this is also a broad generalization).
In this sense, many members may come and go from the site, often just temporarily, to find a fast and casual hookup, and leave once they are satisfied. This may help create the impression that there are large numbers of people signing up, and increasing the number of members for these hookup sites.
Nonetheless, there are several hookup sites available, whether they are sites dedicated to hooking up, or are 'normal' dating websites who offer their members the option to seek all sorts of different types of relationships.
While it seems like there certainly are websites and services available for people to meet dates for hookups alone, there are also plenty of other types of relationships that can, and have been formed, through online dating services, from friendships, to email correspondence, hookups, casual dates, and even marriage.
The internet is renowned for being a place that has something for everyone. The online dating industry is no exception. Though there are endless options for people seeking other people for various reasons and different types of relationships, it seems to some that there is an overwhelming number of websites offering dates for hookups.
This perception, while accurate in some senses, could also be due, in part, to the different marketing strategies approached by each, and the basic characteristics of companies and people who pursue these types of relationships.
To begin with, the marketing strategies for such websites are often quite aggressive. Though this may be a broad generalization, many websites that are designed to connect people for quick and easy sexual relationships are not as concerned with projecting a specific image, particularly in comparison with dating websites who try to distance themselves from this.
Certainly, many online dating services give their members the option to seek any type of relationship they want, whether that be a casual date, hookup, or long term commitment. However, the majority of these sites don't promote themselves exclusively as hookup sites, and don't pursue marketing strategies that are as aggressive and anonymous.
Most large online dating sites promote themselves as place for people to find love, and follow strict branding strategies. Hookup sites are often smaller companies, and are therefore less anonymous. This could help create the sense that there are many of these hookup services available, when really, this is because it is difficult to identify and differentiate the few that are out there.
The companies and people who are involved in these websites may also contribute to the sense that there are several hookup websites around these days. This may be partly because the companies are not large, recognizable brands.
The influx of hookup sites may also be attributed to the fact that the people who participate in these websites are usually not long term members (this is also a broad generalization).
In this sense, many members may come and go from the site, often just temporarily, to find a fast and casual hookup, and leave once they are satisfied. This may help create the impression that there are large numbers of people signing up, and increasing the number of members for these hookup sites.
Nonetheless, there are several hookup sites available, whether they are sites dedicated to hooking up, or are 'normal' dating websites who offer their members the option to seek all sorts of different types of relationships.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Tips On Conversation Starters
Going out on a date can be really exciting and enjoyable especially when you’re having the time of your life with your date. The key factor in great dates is great conversation.
Striking up a conversation with the other person can put too much pressure on you especially if you know so little about them. This is one reason why you and your date should start asking questions about one another to get to know each other on a deeper level.
When you found something in common between you, this could be the start of a great conversation. Share you experiences and your interests, let them know and let them feel that you’re interested and you’re interesting.
Ask open ended questions. These questions are not simply answerable by yes or no but by deep conversational messages. Through this, you will have a good idea about the person’s intellectual level as well as their sense of humor, if there’s any.
Having the same wavelength of thinking is one of the crucial factors in successful relationships. You’d want to spend the rest of your life with someone who you can talk to about serious matters at the same time make you laugh, right?
Probably one of the best conversation starters involves sharing one or more sms in your mobile phone. You could start with Hey, you know what? A friend recently sent me this funny sms. I can’t stop laughing all day when I read it,” and then show her the message on your mobile phone.
You can also share some love quotes with her. You could start talking about it like, “When I read this love quote on my mobile phone, I knew I had to ask you out on a date. I was struck with it so hard that even if I was a bit shy, I mustered enough courage to ask you out. Here is why,” and then show the love quote that inspired you to be brave enough to ask her out.
This gesture will surely melt the girl’s heart and you’ll notice her blush while reading the love quote. If you’re lucky enough, she would be starting to fall for you because of what you told her.
If you are still quite unsure how to start the flow of communication, you can begin by complimenting your date. Saying something nice to a guy is easier than complimenting a girl. If you comment on his appearance or his car, it will instantly break the ice and will send a message that you like him.
Complimenting a girl can be complicated. Don’t just use average words because it would only mean that she looks plain. The tip here is to sound exhilarated and excited when you say something nice about her. Don’t over do it though, you might sound creepy enough and scare her off.
If you have a good sense of humor, take advantage of it. Laughter is a great ice breaker and you’d be surprised at how powerful it can be to help you connect with you date.
Believe it or not, both of you are nervous. It is okay to let your date know that you’re nervous. Since your date feels that same way, he’ll start letting his guard down to be comfortable with you.
Striking up a conversation with the other person can put too much pressure on you especially if you know so little about them. This is one reason why you and your date should start asking questions about one another to get to know each other on a deeper level.
When you found something in common between you, this could be the start of a great conversation. Share you experiences and your interests, let them know and let them feel that you’re interested and you’re interesting.
Ask open ended questions. These questions are not simply answerable by yes or no but by deep conversational messages. Through this, you will have a good idea about the person’s intellectual level as well as their sense of humor, if there’s any.
Having the same wavelength of thinking is one of the crucial factors in successful relationships. You’d want to spend the rest of your life with someone who you can talk to about serious matters at the same time make you laugh, right?
Probably one of the best conversation starters involves sharing one or more sms in your mobile phone. You could start with Hey, you know what? A friend recently sent me this funny sms. I can’t stop laughing all day when I read it,” and then show her the message on your mobile phone.
You can also share some love quotes with her. You could start talking about it like, “When I read this love quote on my mobile phone, I knew I had to ask you out on a date. I was struck with it so hard that even if I was a bit shy, I mustered enough courage to ask you out. Here is why,” and then show the love quote that inspired you to be brave enough to ask her out.
This gesture will surely melt the girl’s heart and you’ll notice her blush while reading the love quote. If you’re lucky enough, she would be starting to fall for you because of what you told her.
If you are still quite unsure how to start the flow of communication, you can begin by complimenting your date. Saying something nice to a guy is easier than complimenting a girl. If you comment on his appearance or his car, it will instantly break the ice and will send a message that you like him.
Complimenting a girl can be complicated. Don’t just use average words because it would only mean that she looks plain. The tip here is to sound exhilarated and excited when you say something nice about her. Don’t over do it though, you might sound creepy enough and scare her off.
If you have a good sense of humor, take advantage of it. Laughter is a great ice breaker and you’d be surprised at how powerful it can be to help you connect with you date.
Believe it or not, both of you are nervous. It is okay to let your date know that you’re nervous. Since your date feels that same way, he’ll start letting his guard down to be comfortable with you.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Free online dating
Free online dating, the sectrets revealed
Free online dating is everywhere. If your just about to take that exciting plunge into finding your souls companion online. Then you must read this free info article first. I am going to save you years off your search and teach you how to avoid the thousands of annoying fake profiles currently online for free. THAT'S RIGHT FREE!
I have been surfing the net for years wondering in and out of websites cruising for the right one and the right people. Finally I have found my wife to be and i am here to share with you my finest secrets on how to use Free Online dating to its maximum and find your soul mate for little or No cost.
There are loads of websites on the market that offer everything. Some free and others that are very expensive. So what's the main difference between them? And how can you choose which ones are better suited to you?
To be honest I believe I would be a member of at least 10 dating sites. And let me say that at least 9 of them are garbage. Some Great site Qualities to look for when finding dating sites:
· Opening of the site is professional.
· Members pics on front page.
· Choose a site that isn't afraid to show how many members it has
· Often a site with fewer numbers gives you greater chances to be noticed by others.
· Look for a description of what the site offers before joining; make sure it's not a porn site.
The problem with the majority of free online dating sites is they attract a huge number of members from poor foreign countries. Often these members want to try and send you a scam offering huge financial returns for helping them out.
And the whole time all they really want is your banking details so they can rob you blind. I strongly suggest staying away from these sites. Find a site that charges very minimal rates to email others. And free to join. IT'S SAFER
Once you have joined a website don't pay right away for email usage. Upload a picture if you can, it increases your chances of people emailing you. Search for other member's profiles and send Virtual kisses first.
Once you can see other members are interested in you and that they are roughly the type of people you want to get to know then upgrade for a paid membership and begin communicating.
Now you have all the tools needed for a successful online dating campaign. Before you read this article you were probably a bit apprehensive about joining a dating site but think about all the things you just learnt.
· How to find real people
· How to pick a professional site
· How to play the numbers game successfully
· How to get noticed quicker
· How to test a site before you buy in
· The importance of advertising yourself
· Online dating security
· How to find your real soul mate
· What kind of sites to avoid
Free online dating is easy. Ticket4one.com is one the most trustworthy sources of online participants available to daters. Full of events and activities worldwide set up to bring people like you together. Our events and activities are similar to speed dating events only we don't do it at a bar or restaurant.
We actually get out in the real world and do things like 4x4 tours, Mystery bus tours, learn2surf, poker nights, self-help and motivational course and many more. Our statement is “ Real events for real people. To meet others in a No obligation stress free environment.”
Free online dating is everywhere. If your just about to take that exciting plunge into finding your souls companion online. Then you must read this free info article first. I am going to save you years off your search and teach you how to avoid the thousands of annoying fake profiles currently online for free. THAT'S RIGHT FREE!
I have been surfing the net for years wondering in and out of websites cruising for the right one and the right people. Finally I have found my wife to be and i am here to share with you my finest secrets on how to use Free Online dating to its maximum and find your soul mate for little or No cost.
There are loads of websites on the market that offer everything. Some free and others that are very expensive. So what's the main difference between them? And how can you choose which ones are better suited to you?
To be honest I believe I would be a member of at least 10 dating sites. And let me say that at least 9 of them are garbage. Some Great site Qualities to look for when finding dating sites:
· Opening of the site is professional.
· Members pics on front page.
· Choose a site that isn't afraid to show how many members it has
· Often a site with fewer numbers gives you greater chances to be noticed by others.
· Look for a description of what the site offers before joining; make sure it's not a porn site.
The problem with the majority of free online dating sites is they attract a huge number of members from poor foreign countries. Often these members want to try and send you a scam offering huge financial returns for helping them out.
And the whole time all they really want is your banking details so they can rob you blind. I strongly suggest staying away from these sites. Find a site that charges very minimal rates to email others. And free to join. IT'S SAFER
Once you have joined a website don't pay right away for email usage. Upload a picture if you can, it increases your chances of people emailing you. Search for other member's profiles and send Virtual kisses first.
Once you can see other members are interested in you and that they are roughly the type of people you want to get to know then upgrade for a paid membership and begin communicating.
Now you have all the tools needed for a successful online dating campaign. Before you read this article you were probably a bit apprehensive about joining a dating site but think about all the things you just learnt.
· How to find real people
· How to pick a professional site
· How to play the numbers game successfully
· How to get noticed quicker
· How to test a site before you buy in
· The importance of advertising yourself
· Online dating security
· How to find your real soul mate
· What kind of sites to avoid
Free online dating is easy. Ticket4one.com is one the most trustworthy sources of online participants available to daters. Full of events and activities worldwide set up to bring people like you together. Our events and activities are similar to speed dating events only we don't do it at a bar or restaurant.
We actually get out in the real world and do things like 4x4 tours, Mystery bus tours, learn2surf, poker nights, self-help and motivational course and many more. Our statement is “ Real events for real people. To meet others in a No obligation stress free environment.”
Monday, August 17, 2009
Men's Online Dating Email Tips! Triple Your Dating!
Six online dating email tips that will triple your response and dates from the internet.
Dear friend,
Have you been dating online and are frustrated with poor responses to your emails? Or even worse, women not replying to your first emails at all? This is enough to make you give up isn’t it? Especially if you are recently divorced, split up and single. I know the feeling and have been there and felt the pain.
Well, I have good news for you because in this article I am giving away extremely valuable information for free. If you follow the steps I’m about to outline, you will have a lot of success with online dating. These online dating tips will triple your response and dates on the internet dating sites. Let’s have a look at them. These tips are specific to the FIRST contact email.
Email Tip #One
You must state at the beginning of your email that her profile stands out. E.g. ‘Hi Angel64, I’m Mick and I’m writing as you sound interesting to me and your profile stands out from the others.’ Then mention a few sentences of what you liked…without gushing or sucking up of course.
This will obviously please the lady and create her own interest in you. She will feel special and rightly so as you have chosen to contact her. She is the lucky one to get your attention.
Email Tip #Two
Be sure to mention and lightheartedly poke fun of something in her profile. E.g. ‘Do you really like Neil Diamond and ABBA?’ :-] [Just kidding]
Always put a smiley or [just kidding] in brackets so as not to offend. This says you are playful and not a soft guy that’s afraid to have some fun. She’ll appreciate your effort.
Email Tip #Four
Mention something specific in her profile that you found interesting. E.g. ‘So you worked in London for 12 months, I was there for two years…when were you there?’
This proves to her you have read her profile in detail and have something in common. This creates repore and her interest immediately.
Email Tip #Five
Ask something of interest about her. E.g. ‘You said you do dance lessons, what style…is it salsa? How often do you get out to dance…I like the club down on East esplanade on Friday nights. They have a great Latin band and free lessons from 7pm until 8pm.’
This gives her a specific question to reply to. Avoid questions that are mundane and common like, ‘What’s your favorite colour?’ Pick something she’s mentioned on her profile and ask her details on that…
Email Tip #Six
These tips are in sequence. Finish up and keep it brief. Four or Five paragraphs is enough. Don’t go on about yourself and spill your guts to her. Finish with a line that says something like this...
‘Why don’t we chat on the phone for a while and get to know each other. It saves time writing long emails… Here’s my number, Mick02 47476534. I’m home after 6.30 and you’ll catch me in some time. Or here is my cell phone # 098975643.
Look forward to your reply…
Take care Angel64
Mick.’
There you have it. These are very helpful and valuable tips that will save you time, money and heartache… You will definitely get THREE times the replies and dates by using these tips!
Good Luck.
All the best.
Regards
Mick Jones.
Author.
http://www.howtomeetwomenontheinternet.com
Dear friend,
Have you been dating online and are frustrated with poor responses to your emails? Or even worse, women not replying to your first emails at all? This is enough to make you give up isn’t it? Especially if you are recently divorced, split up and single. I know the feeling and have been there and felt the pain.
Well, I have good news for you because in this article I am giving away extremely valuable information for free. If you follow the steps I’m about to outline, you will have a lot of success with online dating. These online dating tips will triple your response and dates on the internet dating sites. Let’s have a look at them. These tips are specific to the FIRST contact email.
Email Tip #One
You must state at the beginning of your email that her profile stands out. E.g. ‘Hi Angel64, I’m Mick and I’m writing as you sound interesting to me and your profile stands out from the others.’ Then mention a few sentences of what you liked…without gushing or sucking up of course.
This will obviously please the lady and create her own interest in you. She will feel special and rightly so as you have chosen to contact her. She is the lucky one to get your attention.
Email Tip #Two
Be sure to mention and lightheartedly poke fun of something in her profile. E.g. ‘Do you really like Neil Diamond and ABBA?’ :-] [Just kidding]
Always put a smiley or [just kidding] in brackets so as not to offend. This says you are playful and not a soft guy that’s afraid to have some fun. She’ll appreciate your effort.
Email Tip #Four
Mention something specific in her profile that you found interesting. E.g. ‘So you worked in London for 12 months, I was there for two years…when were you there?’
This proves to her you have read her profile in detail and have something in common. This creates repore and her interest immediately.
Email Tip #Five
Ask something of interest about her. E.g. ‘You said you do dance lessons, what style…is it salsa? How often do you get out to dance…I like the club down on East esplanade on Friday nights. They have a great Latin band and free lessons from 7pm until 8pm.’
This gives her a specific question to reply to. Avoid questions that are mundane and common like, ‘What’s your favorite colour?’ Pick something she’s mentioned on her profile and ask her details on that…
Email Tip #Six
These tips are in sequence. Finish up and keep it brief. Four or Five paragraphs is enough. Don’t go on about yourself and spill your guts to her. Finish with a line that says something like this...
‘Why don’t we chat on the phone for a while and get to know each other. It saves time writing long emails… Here’s my number, Mick02 47476534. I’m home after 6.30 and you’ll catch me in some time. Or here is my cell phone # 098975643.
Look forward to your reply…
Take care Angel64
Mick.’
There you have it. These are very helpful and valuable tips that will save you time, money and heartache… You will definitely get THREE times the replies and dates by using these tips!
Good Luck.
All the best.
Regards
Mick Jones.
Author.
http://www.howtomeetwomenontheinternet.com
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Women, Hear These Dating Tips
For quite some time now or since time immemorial, many women have been embarking on that quest towards the elusive "Mr. Right". But how does one woman know if she is succeeding on the turf of dating or if she is mainly risking her safety?
Here are ways to know whether a woman is making the most out of her dating life without making her safety suffer.
Listen to your heart.
If intuition tells one that she is not striking a string with a certain main, she should follow her gut feel and dump the guy, gently that is. Dating is not about jumping on every person that shows interest. Settling for something less is not that good of an option.
Trust yourself.
This goes with the gut feel advice. If the man seems too good to be true, chances are, he really is not good for you. Don't be misled by saccharine promises. Learn to psychoanalyze a bit. Doing some background check surely won't hurt.
Feel the earth move under your feet. Nope, I'm not making you dance or something like that. What I mean is keep your self grounded. Don't be swept off by the giddy feeling all too suddenly.
Taking things in stride will keep you safe from being hurt if the guy or girl is not really what you expected him or her to be. Single dating is not carried out like an overnight success. Be consciously cautious.
Never give in to peer pressure. If your roommates know about your online dating escapade and are telling you to single out somebody that you think doesn't make the cut, you know, your standards, don't be swayed by them. If they want that guy, they can have him, right? Single dating is not supposed to be the decision of the group, apparently.
Being too desperate over a relationship will spoil the fun of single dating life. If you go against that nagging but "healthy" advice of your instinct that you're overdoing your dealings with your boyfriend and you better stop it or else…, it will be your loss, really.
For instance, you came to the point that you're relationship is about to end, in short, you're being dumped, but you're still doing too many things to patch things up, that's obviously being desperate.
Single dating is just single dating. If you thought of him as the future father of your babies but you're just a fling for him, for Pete's sake, obviously you're not in the same boat. Get out of that relationship, fast!
If all the while you've been aiming for that long-term relationship, here are few fool-proof tips on how to spot who's NOT the man.
1. He's overly unreliable. Promises to call you but he won't.
2. He does not let you in his intimate circle of friends.
3. He never spouts anything about your future together
4. He rushes you into his bed.
With those in mind, and you armored with presence of mind and a cautious but not paranoid attitude, you'll be well set off for the goodies of single dating. Go get him swooning over you!
Here are ways to know whether a woman is making the most out of her dating life without making her safety suffer.
Listen to your heart.
If intuition tells one that she is not striking a string with a certain main, she should follow her gut feel and dump the guy, gently that is. Dating is not about jumping on every person that shows interest. Settling for something less is not that good of an option.
Trust yourself.
This goes with the gut feel advice. If the man seems too good to be true, chances are, he really is not good for you. Don't be misled by saccharine promises. Learn to psychoanalyze a bit. Doing some background check surely won't hurt.
Feel the earth move under your feet. Nope, I'm not making you dance or something like that. What I mean is keep your self grounded. Don't be swept off by the giddy feeling all too suddenly.
Taking things in stride will keep you safe from being hurt if the guy or girl is not really what you expected him or her to be. Single dating is not carried out like an overnight success. Be consciously cautious.
Never give in to peer pressure. If your roommates know about your online dating escapade and are telling you to single out somebody that you think doesn't make the cut, you know, your standards, don't be swayed by them. If they want that guy, they can have him, right? Single dating is not supposed to be the decision of the group, apparently.
Being too desperate over a relationship will spoil the fun of single dating life. If you go against that nagging but "healthy" advice of your instinct that you're overdoing your dealings with your boyfriend and you better stop it or else…, it will be your loss, really.
For instance, you came to the point that you're relationship is about to end, in short, you're being dumped, but you're still doing too many things to patch things up, that's obviously being desperate.
Single dating is just single dating. If you thought of him as the future father of your babies but you're just a fling for him, for Pete's sake, obviously you're not in the same boat. Get out of that relationship, fast!
If all the while you've been aiming for that long-term relationship, here are few fool-proof tips on how to spot who's NOT the man.
1. He's overly unreliable. Promises to call you but he won't.
2. He does not let you in his intimate circle of friends.
3. He never spouts anything about your future together
4. He rushes you into his bed.
With those in mind, and you armored with presence of mind and a cautious but not paranoid attitude, you'll be well set off for the goodies of single dating. Go get him swooning over you!
Saturday, August 15, 2009
The History of Valentine’s Day
This article offers the history of Valentine’s Day according to some known legends. The mysterious origin of this traditional holiday makes it an even more exciting and romantic holiday.
Valentine’s Day is a very popular date for many people. Whether you are celebrating a new love, or a long-term relationship, or you’re at home sulking over a lost love, Valentine’s Day is a significant day for almost everyone. On this day across the country cards, flowers, candies, love letters, and cute and furry little stuffed animals are sent, given, and unwrapped every year.
Countless couples go to many different places for dates to show their significant others how much they care and value them. Have you ever wondered where Valentine’s Day originated and why it is as important and as popular as it is? The history of Valentine’s Day tells the story.
The origination of this popular holiday is all in the name of St. Valentine. Who is this saint? This saint is apparently a very mysterious entity. While mystery shrouds this holiday, what is known is that February has been a romantic month for a long time.
St. Valentine’s Day contains components of both Christian traditions and Ancient Roman traditions. The Catholic Church today recognizes at least three saints with the name of Valentine or Valentinus. All of these recognized saints were at one point in time martyred.
One legend that is circulating about this traditional holiday is that Valentine was a priest who had served during the third century in Rome. The Emperor of Rome at the time was Emperor Claudius II. He decided that single men, those without women or children to take care of and support made better soldiers than those who were married with children.
Because of the conclusion he came to, Claudius ordered the outlaw of marriage for young men, whom he viewed were his crop of potential soldiers. Valentine realized the injustice of such a decree and defied Claudius’s command by continuing to perform marriages for young lovers even though it was very dangerous for him to do so. When Claudius discovered the actions of Valentine, Claudius ordered that he immediately be put to death.
Other legends include suggestions that Valentine was killed while he was trying to help Christians escape harsh Roman prisons where they were possibly being beaten and even tortured at times. So now you are wondering why he had to do with a holiday that is a famous day for lovers.
According to a legend, the first Valentine greeting was actually allegedly sent by Valentine himself. When he was in prison, it is believed that Valentine fell in love. The person he fell in love with was a young girl, possibly his captor’s daughter. She was said to have visited him during his confinement while in prison.
Before Valentine’s death, it is alleged that he wrote her a love letter. He signed this letter with the expression "From your Valentine". This expression is still used today on Valentine’s Day and is signed at the bottom of cards and Valentine gifts.
Though the real truth behind the Valentine legends is still somewhat of a mystery, what is clear is why Valentine is looked upon as a brave, compassionate, and romantic person. By the Middle Ages, Valentine was, not surprisingly, one of the most popular saints throughout England and France.
Valentine’s Day is a very popular date for many people. Whether you are celebrating a new love, or a long-term relationship, or you’re at home sulking over a lost love, Valentine’s Day is a significant day for almost everyone. On this day across the country cards, flowers, candies, love letters, and cute and furry little stuffed animals are sent, given, and unwrapped every year.
Countless couples go to many different places for dates to show their significant others how much they care and value them. Have you ever wondered where Valentine’s Day originated and why it is as important and as popular as it is? The history of Valentine’s Day tells the story.
The origination of this popular holiday is all in the name of St. Valentine. Who is this saint? This saint is apparently a very mysterious entity. While mystery shrouds this holiday, what is known is that February has been a romantic month for a long time.
St. Valentine’s Day contains components of both Christian traditions and Ancient Roman traditions. The Catholic Church today recognizes at least three saints with the name of Valentine or Valentinus. All of these recognized saints were at one point in time martyred.
One legend that is circulating about this traditional holiday is that Valentine was a priest who had served during the third century in Rome. The Emperor of Rome at the time was Emperor Claudius II. He decided that single men, those without women or children to take care of and support made better soldiers than those who were married with children.
Because of the conclusion he came to, Claudius ordered the outlaw of marriage for young men, whom he viewed were his crop of potential soldiers. Valentine realized the injustice of such a decree and defied Claudius’s command by continuing to perform marriages for young lovers even though it was very dangerous for him to do so. When Claudius discovered the actions of Valentine, Claudius ordered that he immediately be put to death.
Other legends include suggestions that Valentine was killed while he was trying to help Christians escape harsh Roman prisons where they were possibly being beaten and even tortured at times. So now you are wondering why he had to do with a holiday that is a famous day for lovers.
According to a legend, the first Valentine greeting was actually allegedly sent by Valentine himself. When he was in prison, it is believed that Valentine fell in love. The person he fell in love with was a young girl, possibly his captor’s daughter. She was said to have visited him during his confinement while in prison.
Before Valentine’s death, it is alleged that he wrote her a love letter. He signed this letter with the expression "From your Valentine". This expression is still used today on Valentine’s Day and is signed at the bottom of cards and Valentine gifts.
Though the real truth behind the Valentine legends is still somewhat of a mystery, what is clear is why Valentine is looked upon as a brave, compassionate, and romantic person. By the Middle Ages, Valentine was, not surprisingly, one of the most popular saints throughout England and France.
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