North Myrtle Beach Times Serving our Community and the Grand Strand for over 50 years
By Kaye Collins
Common Valentine’s Day customs include the exchange of cards, flowers (notably red roses) and chocolates, enjoying romantic dinners, and presenting jewelry. Many of these traditions also encompass family and friends through notes and gifts, occasionally featuring distinctive practices such as conversation hearts.
A few brief and heartfelt messages for loved ones or friends include: “Life is more enjoyable with you around.” “You are my top reason to smile.” “You make me whole.” “Always yours, now and forever.” “With you, every day feels like Valentine’s Day.”
The well-established and commonly embraced customs of exchanging cards that convey messages of love, friendship, or affection serve as a fundamental aspect, frequently adorned with symbols such as hearts, cupid, or well-known verses like “Roses are red, violets are blue.” Red roses are emblematic of love, and heart-shaped boxes filled with chocolates are traditional gifts. Couples often partake in special dinners, whether at home or in restaurants, occasionally accompanied by candlelight. More lavish presents, such as jewelry, are typical for romantic partners. In schools, children participate in card and candy exchanges with their classmates.
Local businesses provided their products to the local residents. Ritchie’s General Store & Eatery presented a Valentine’s meal on Friday, February 13, featuring their Love at First Bite menu, which included a salad, entrée, side dish, and desserts for two, all for an affordable price of $50.
Ernie’s Hometown Diner, Sunshine Pancake House offered a Valentine’s Day Meal for two, included steak, five cheese ravioli in a butter cream sauce and a side salad. This special was available on Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 14 and 15, for $49.99 while supplies lasted.
Poppie’s Downtown Sweet Bar, Apparel & More hosted a Valentine’s event featuring dancing, group games, and ice cream on Sunday, February 15, from 3 to 5 p.m. A total of 35 guests arrived eager to participate in group games, dance, enjoy ice cream, and make new friends. DJ John Todd Blevins from Bravo Entertainment provided the music, creating a lively atmosphere for dancing and musical games such as ‘hot potato’ with a balloon and the ‘keep the balloon in the air’ challenge, Winners received a complimentary ice cream. The children also had the opportunity to request songs they wanted to dance to. One of the teenagers in attendance remarked, “It is really nice to have something to get dressed up for and to be able to come out on the town and just have a good time.” Be sure to check their Facebook page for similar monthly events at Poppie’s.
The City of Loris acquired a Valentine’s heart that illuminated the night at the railroad tracks on Walnut Street. Numerous residents seized the chance to capture photos and share them on Facebook.
Sabrina Todd and Sandra McCormick from Advance America donned a pink heart ensemble and a ‘Be Mine’ cover bib while they roamed the city, spreading love and laughter. Last Spring, they dressed as the Easter Bunny and an Egg, delighting store owners and pedestrians in downtown Loris.
