THE TRADITION OF GIVING VALENTINES DAY CARDS & GIFTS

During the medieval time of chivalry, the names of English maidens and bachelors were put into boxes and drawn out in pairs. Each couple exchanged gifts and the girl became the man's sweetheart for a year. He next put her name on his sleeve and was bound by honor to attend and protect her . This old custom of drawing names was considered a good omen for love and more often then not led to a wedding. In 1537, King Henry VIII declared, by Royal Charter, that all England would celebrate February 14 as "Saint Valentine's Day" and as time went on February 14 became the traditional date for exchanging love messages and simple gifts with Saint Valentine becoming the accepted Patron Saint of Lovers. This tradition evolved into giving cards as well as candy and flowers.