Valentine’s Day Is Here

By Maya Nowlin, Michelle Omayra

According to the National Retail Federation, Valentine’s Day spending in 2021 was in the billions. $21.8 billion, to be exact. And the average amount spent per person was roughly $165. And what exactly are Americans spending money on for their loved ones on Valentine’s Day? One can expect the usual suspects of flowers, candy (chocolate, anyone?), jewelry, a fancy dinner out, and cards of the Hallmark variety, to name a few.

While it would be safe to assume that the Covid-19 pandemic would have a big effect on outings and spending for the pink and red heart holiday, it seems as though things have gone back to normal in terms of spending. If anything, it seems to be increasing now that people feel safer and more confident about going out for any reason. Especially if it involves romance. Gone are the days of making excuses to meander around the grocery store and taking one’s dog on a walk fourteen times in one day. Hallelujah, hallelujah!

And you know what, friends of the Avalon Park community? Why should we not celebrate anything and everything? Now, do not get me wrong. While I am certainly not advocating for extravagant overspending or any kind of overextension of one’s self, I am advocating for living your absolute BEST life with those that are most dear to you. If the Covid-19 pandemic has taught us anything as a community, it is that life is so, so short. We should take every opportunity given to us to enjoy ourselves with our loved ones as much as we can because you never know what life has in store for us.

That doesn’t mean you have to have a partner though. If you’re single, round up your closest friends and take full advantage of our local restaurants’ brunch menu (with plenty of mimosa!). Or if brunch is not really your thing, a nice walk around Avalon Park and popping into any of our community’s local boutiques is another great way to spend your time on Valentine’s Day.

Or perhaps you’re more introverted and need an excuse to recharge with some self love and care? If that is the case, make yourself your favorite dish (or treat yourself to some local takeout), and recline back on your couch with your favorite movie or a binge-worthy show. Make yourself a nice bubble bath, try out that new hobby you never make time for, or even hit the gym and work on that 2023 New Year New Me resolution.

Regardless of how you choose to spend your Valentine’s Day, whether with your partner, your closest gal pals, or by yourself, remember that Avalon Mail Center has got you covered when it comes to Valentine’s Day stamps to adorn your red or pink envelopes this lovey-dovey season. We offer cute love flowers and adorable puppies and kittens holding hearts. We even offer custom designed postcards from our very own in-house graphic artist, Michelle. From baby corgis hugging to conversation hearts, we got it all. Come visit us at 3564 Avalon Park E Blvd, Ste 1 for all of your mailbox, shipping, and printing needs