Rhea of Sunshine: how businesses take advantage of Valentine’s Day

Morgan Kong

In this weekly column, Wingspan staff reporter Rhea Advani provides her take on a variety of topics.

Rhea Advani, Staff Reporter

Ahh yes it’s probably the most awkward time of the year (well at least for those of us who are single)… Valentine’s Day is coming up! I don’t know about you guys, but I could definitely have a  conversation with Cupid right now.

Anyways, Valentine’s Day in my opinion is one of the holidays that’s all marketing and making money for companies and businesses. I understand the love aspect of it, and though I think it’s really cute, it’s a bit cheesy.  

Many companies and businesses take advantage of the many different marketing opportunities they have. Boyfriends, girlfriends, husbands, and wives often feel obligated to get the significant other something and are forced to pay for overpriced, heart-themed gifts. 

I own my own cake pop business, so I also understand the business aspect of it. Making all of my products pink and love-themed definitely promotes my brand more and makes people interested and want to purchase. Now, I appreciate all of the marketing tools I have to promote my products, however, it wasn’t always like this.

Before, I used to think that companies were being selfish and taking advantage of people feeling obligated to purchase things. I thought that Valentine’s Day was stupid and that if you really love someone, you should show them that every day not just one day a year. This in fact, isn’t the case anymore. I understand the techniques used for these occasions.

Anyways, I hope you guys have an amazing Valentine’s Day this weekend and enjoy your long weekend!