From Candy Hearts to Cozy Nights In

The Sweet History of Valentine’s Day (and Fun Traditions for Families & Grown-Ups) Valentine’s Day isn’t just about roses and chocolate — it’s about connection, comfort, and slowing down long enough to love on the people who matter most.

And honestly? That’s very Slacks to Sweats energy. Because whether you’re coming home from the corporate grind or spending the day in your comfiest sweats, February is the perfect excuse to soften life a little... light a candle, bake something sweet, and create simple memories with your people. But have you ever wondered how Valentine’s Day became the heart-covered holiday we know today? Let’s grab a coffee and talk about it.

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A Brief History of Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day dates back much further than candy hearts and Target dollar-spot décor. It’s believed to be named after Saint Valentine, a Roman priest from the 3rd century. According to legend, Emperor Claudius II banned marriages for young soldiers (thinking single men made better fighters). Valentine secretly performed weddings anyway — because love > rules — and was later imprisoned for it.

Before his execution, it’s said he signed a letter, “From your Valentine.” Sound familiar? By the Middle Ages, the day became associated with romance and courtship, especially in England and France, where people believed February 14 marked the start of birds’ mating season.

By the 1800s, handwritten love notes turned into mass-produced cards, and soon: lace paper valentines chocolates flowers and sweet treats became traditions.

Fast forward to today, and Valentine’s Day has evolved into something bigger — not just romance, but celebrating love in all forms. And we’re here for that.

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Valentine’s Traditions for Adults

Valentine’s doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive. Some of the best celebrations are the coziest ones.

Here are a few grown-up traditions we love:

Cozy & Meaningful Ideas

At-home date night (takeout + candles + comfy clothes)

Handwritten notes or “10 reasons I love you” lists

Movie marathon with nostalgic rom-coms

Cooking a special dinner together

Galentine’s brunch with your besties

Self-care night (face masks, journaling, prayer, reflection)

Memory scrapbooks or photo books

Pro tip:

Skip the pressure and choose intentional over Instagram-perfect. Love feels better when it’s simple.

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Valentine’s Traditions for Kids

If you grew up in the 90s or early 2000s, you probably remember decorating shoeboxes and passing out valentines in class. And honestly? That magic still hits.

Fun Kid-Friendly Ideas

Classroom card exchanges

Decorating cookies or cupcakes

DIY crafts (paper hearts, glitter art, homemade cards)

Family movie night with popcorn and heart-shaped snacks.

“Love notes” hidden in lunchboxes.

Baking together.

Valentine treasure hunts around the house. It’s less about gifts and more about making kids feel seen, safe, and loved. Those are the memories that stick.

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What Valentine’s Means to Us

At Slacks to Sweats, this season is a reminder to: Slow down. Stay cozy. Love your people hard. And romanticize the little things. Because sometimes the best Valentine’s Day looks like: messy kitchens, warm blankets, laughter and nowhere else you need to be. And honestly? That’s our favorite kind of celebration.

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However, You Celebrate... Whether it’s date night, a classroom party, a best-friend brunch, or a quiet night journaling with tea... Love counts. Every version. So, this February, light the candle. Send the text. Bake the cookies. Hug your people. And if you’re listening to the podcast while you do it? Even better.

From corporate grind to comfy vibes, Happy Valentine’s Day from Slacks to Sweats Podcast

Deuces!

Sam & Amber