Even in long-term relationships or marriage, asking a significant other to be your Valentine can be a meaningful gesture. While some may think it is unnecessary, it helps keep romance alive and exciting. Small acts of love, like this simple question, can make a partner feel appreciated and strengthen the relationship over time. Plus, a little extra romance on Valentine’s Day never hurts.
Valentine’s Day, rooted in ancient Roman and early Christian traditions, has evolved into a global celebration of love. While new couples often embrace the holiday enthusiastically, those in long-term relationships may question whether asking their partner to be their Valentine is still relevant. This simple gesture can help maintain intimacy and appreciation.
The origins of Valentine’s Day trace back to the Roman festival of Lupercalia, which involved fertility practices and pairing men and women through a lottery system. Over time, it became associated with St. Valentine, who secretly performed marriages in opposition to Roman law. By the Middle Ages, the holiday symbolized romantic love, and exchanging notes, gifts and declarations of affection became a tradition.
Valentine’s Day remains a widely recognized celebration, though its significance can change in long-term relationships. With fewer relationship milestones to celebrate over time, small yet meaningful traditions like asking your partner to be your Valentine can make Valentine’s Day special and help keep romance alive. Unlike anniversaries or engagements commemorating specific events, this gesture is a recurring opportunity to express love and value toward each other.
As relationships grow, daily routines can sometimes replace romantic moments. Asking your partner to be your Valentine is a simple way to stay connected and intensify your relationship.
It brings back memories of early dating and makes romance spark from reminiscence.
Beyond nostalgia, maintaining this tradition fosters continued excitement in a relationship. It is a small yet powerful way to communicate love, ensuring that neither partner feels taken for granted. Whether through a grand gesture or a heartfelt question, it provides an intentional moment of gratitude and recognition.
Additionally, traditions play an essential role in relationships. Just as anniversaries, date nights, or inside jokes become special over time, continuing to ask this question each year can be a fun and romantic practice. It allows couples to pause, reflect on their journey together and reaffirm their love. Moreover, the act of asking brings joy and excitement. Anticipation and surprise, whether through a handwritten note, a small gift or an elaborate plan, can make Valentine’s Day feel unique and personal.
Even in marriages, where love is deeply rooted and often taken as a given, these small moments of reconnection matter. Life’s demands, like careers, responsibilities and daily routines, can sometimes overshadow romance. By continuing to ask, “Will you be my Valentine?” Partners can remind each other that love is still an intentional choice worth celebrating.
While significant milestones in a relationship may become less frequent, romance should not fade. Asking your significant other to be your Valentine is a simple yet meaningful way to sustain affection and appreciation. It reinforces the importance of love, no matter how long a couple has been together. By keeping this tradition alive, couples can ensure that love remains an active, cherished part of their relationship. Take a moment to continue the tradition this Valentine’s Day, it may just make the day even more special.
SalmaPaola Baca is a staff photographer and may be reached at [email protected] and @photographybysalmapaola on Instagram.
