Yes, it’s that time of year again. Another holiday which we won’t be able to celebrate this year in a normal way. Almost every festival has been celebrated during this global pandemic. This time it’s Valentine’s Day. It’s going to be different, but some traditions will remain the same. Instead of going out for a meal, we’ll be ordering a takeaway. Instead of going to the movies, we’ll be watching something on Netflix. Instead of going shopping to pick something for our sweetheart, we'll be either click & collecting or anxiously waiting for an online delivery. The giving and receiving of gifts, romantic meals and sharing a laugh (or tears) will still be the same. And there’s no reason why it can’t be as enjoyable as it used to be.
I thought I'd share some stories as it's not unusual for someone in my trade to help create a memorable Valentine. Obviously there's plenty of perfect engagement rings and some wonderful jewellery that I've created over the past 30 years. Nothing comes close to the time I was asked to make matching his and hers genital jewellery! Taking the measurements alone was a hoot!
There was also a client who brought his girlfriend to meet me during the afternoon of Valentine’s Day. It was a lovely surprise for her. He had proposed the night before. The plan to design a bespoke engagement ring on Valentine’s Day was all part of the grand gesture of love. I’m not 100% sure what story he used to coax her to my office, but she did seem quite upset when she later asked, “I hope this means we're still going to Louis Vuitton to pick a new bag”. I do hope they're still happily married!
I also had a couple who booked an appointment to see me the day after Valentine’s Day. I was expecting both of them that afternoon. However, only one of them showed up. Tom apologised that his fiancé was unable to make their appointment. "How come?" I asked. "She’s at home puking her guts out" Tom replied. It turned out the romantic dinner and proposal they enjoyed the night before didn't end so well. How romantic!
Of course couples come and see me throughout the year, not just on Valentine’s Day. Sometimes the lucky lady doesn’t have a clue why she's in my office. One time I had a couple come see me. I passed over the ring all boxed up. A second later this chap gets down on one knee and proposes to her right in front of me. She burst into tears. I burst into tears. What a beautiful sight to see.
Before I sign off. For those not proposing and who just want a chilled evening, here are my fav top three romantic movies to snuggle up with (in no particular order).
- Casablanca – I do love a classic black & white flick and this is right up there for me. Humphrey Bogart
and Ingrid Bergman at their finest. - The wedding Singer – I love a good 80s theme movie. The music. The outfits. And the chemistry between Adam Sandler & Drew Barrymore is perfect. And who can forget the finale on the plane!
- Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Yes, it’s another classic and possibly a bit clichéd. Audrey Hepburn is flawless in this film. She has heads turning and plays it perfectly. Let's not forget a fabulous cameo by Tiffany & Co!
Whatever you’re doing this Valentine’s Day, I hope it’s an enjoyable and memorable one. Stay safe.
