The History of Valentine’s Day Cards: From Handwritten Notes to Modern Keepsakes

Are you shopping for the perfect Valentine’s Day card? Perhaps designing a romantic corflute or poster to declare your love in a big way? As the orders started to roll in and our printing press started warming up, we began to wonder about not only the origins of Valentine’s Day, but of the coveted Valentine’s Day card. When did people start sending Valentine’s Day cards and how did it become such a huge part of the day?

Where Valentine’s Day Began
The ancient Romans celebrated a fertility festival called Lupercalia around the 15^th of February that is known as the original celebration. The origins of Valentine’s Day as we know it are often linked to Saint Valentine, a figure from Roman times associated with secret marriages and acts of love performed against the odds. Jailed and sentenced to execution for performing marriages against the orders of Emperor Claudius, Saint Valentine wrote a love letter and signed it “from your Valentine.” By the Middle Ages, the day had become associated with romance, particularly in Europe, where poets and writers began linking 14 February with courtly love.

Early Valentine’s Day Letters
Before printed cards existed, Valentines were handwritten notes and poems, often carefully crafted and deeply personal. Around 1382, Chaucer wrote a poem with a line referring to Saint Valentine’s Day as the day birds choose their mates. In the 15^th century, one of the earliest known Valentine’s letters was written by Charles, Duke of Orléans, to his wife while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London. Then, of course, references popped up in the works of Shakespeare, notably in Hamlet, written around 1600.

The Rise of Printed Valentine’s Cards
Valentine’s Day cards as we know them began to emerge in the 18^th and 19^th centuries, particularly in England. First they were handmade, delivered secretly by being slipped under doors. As printing techniques improved and postal services expanded, pre-made cards became more accessible. These early cards were often ornate, featuring lace, ribbons, pressed flowers and elaborate illustrations, designed to be kept and treasured.

By the Victorian era, Valentine’s cards had become hugely popular. It began to be seen as a fun, frivolous day as well as one for expressions of true love. 1840’s introduction of the Penny Post in the UK made sending cards affordable, and millions were exchanged each year.

From Handmade to Mass Market
In the 20^th century, Valentine’s Day cards evolved alongside changing social norms. Cards became more playful, humorous and inclusive, celebrating not just romantic love but friendship, family and self-love too. Advances in printing allowed for bold colours, photography, pop-ups and foil details, transforming cards into miniature works of art.

Why Valentine’s Day Cards Still Matter
In a digital age of instant messages and emojis, Valentine’s cards continue to hold special meaning. A physical card or other printed expression of love represents time, thought and intention. It’s something tangible that can be held, reread and kept long after the day has passed. And aren’t we all just sentimental fools at heart?

A Tradition That Keeps Evolving
From handwritten poems to beautifully designed modern cards, Valentine’s Day cards have adapted with the times, but their purpose remains the same: to express love, appreciation and connection.

And that’s a tradition worth celebrating.

Reach out today to order something special for your Valentine!