Saint-Valentin.
The very words conjure images of heart-shaped candies, overpriced roses, and crowded restaurants, right?
But what if this year, we ditched the predictable and embraced something a little… different?
Let’s dive into the world of DIY projects, fulfilling leisure activities, and maybe even a little bit of matchmaking magic.
This article will inspire you to celebrate love in all its forms, whether you’re coupled up, happily single, or somewhere in between.
Love is in the Air (and on Facebook!)
Violette Pinto, a true romantic at heart (born on February 14th, no less!), created the Facebook group “Sorties entre célibataires quadra et plus, dans le 37 et limitrophes” in 2020.
It’s not just a social club; it’s a love connection hub!
Can you believe that over 200 couples have blossomed from this group?
And the first wedding is slated for May 2025!
Violette dedicates a whopping eight hours a day to managing the group, meticulously tracking new members, departures, and interactions.
“Seeing people happy… that’s my happiness,” she says.
And get this: she’s not even looking for love herself!
“It gives me more than a love story,” explains this resident who insists she no longer wants to be in love.
Now, that’s dedication!
From Social Outings to Soulmates
Originally, the group was intended for singles over forty to meet new people.
It was created after her second divorce because she was tired of hanging out with couples.
“The idea wasn’t necessarily to create couples, but let’s not lie, if there’s a way to make it happen!
Why not!” she says with a frankness and a smile tinged with authority in her voice.
And it *is* happening.
One shining example is Peggy and Jean-Philippe, who met in October 2020 through the group.
Today, at 51 and 58 respectively, they’re living the “célicouple” life in Saint-Pierre-des-Corps.
Intrigued?
They live in the same building but maintain separate apartments.
A perfect blend of togetherness and independence, wouldn’t you say?
Initially, they joined just to find some friends.
Wedding Bells are Ringing!
Jean-Pierre and Laëtitia are set to be the group’s first married couple, with a ceremony planned for May 30th.
They initially connected to coordinate a birthday gift for another member.
Sparks flew that day in February 2022.
A coup de coeur as they say.
After taking their time to get to know each other, they eventually settled down together in Joué-lès-Tours.
Their celebration will include a gathering at the Rochecorbon guinguette, a local hotspot, with fellow “quadras” and friends.
Talk about a fun and unique way to celebrate love!
A Little Help from a Friend (and Matchmaker)
Violette even played a significant role in bringing Nathalie and Stéphane together.
Nathalie, in her fifties, wasn’t actively seeking a relationship.
“I wasn’t looking to get back into a relationship, I was just looking to go out,” she recalls.
And Stéphane wasn’t her type, but Violette saw something special.
Violette really has a knack for these things.
Their relationship has been going strong for over three years now.
The Many Faces of Saint-Valentin
Let’s peek into how others view the day of love.
Are you curious to see how different people celebrate or shun this holiday?
- Audrey, 27, married: “We don’t celebrate it because it’s commercial.
It has no value to me.” - Okan, 23, single: “A necklace and roses for women.
A bracelet for men.” (Popular gift choices, apparently!) - Georges, 71, married: “It’s a great commercial opportunity.
I bring my wife flowers every time.” - Laurent, 41, single: “I’ve never celebrated, even when I was in a relationship.
We go clubbing with friends.
This year, a singles party!” - Estelle, 45, in a relationship: “Valentine’s Day, we don’t go on purpose!
Because the prices are inflated twice.
Love isn’t just on February 14th.” - Lili, 60s, single: “It’s too standardized, but it shouldn’t be trivialized.
A restaurant outing with dancing after suits me.” - Anaïs, 25, single: “We don’t need a specific day to say ‘I love you.’ It’s all year round.”
- Christian, 67, married: “Have a good dinner, not too much alcohol, a small gift.
We are dog-sitting this year!” - Patrick, 74, married: “None.
We don’t pay attention to it.” - Marie, 27, in a relationship: “We organize little dates where it’s just the two of us.
Creating a moment is important.”
YouTube Takes on Saint-Valentin
Want a lighthearted take on Saint-Valentin?
These YouTube videos offer different perspectives and a bit of fun:
For the gamers out there, here’s an update on Blox Fruits for Saint-Valentin!
A quick and cute short about a cozy Valentine’s night in.
Cookies, anyone?
And for those who think Saint-Valentin is, well, not all it’s cracked up to be, here’s a humorous take!
Seeking Connection, One Ad at a Time
Léa, a retiree, decided to place an ad in the “Friendship/Dating/Life as a Couple” section of a local newspaper.
Too wary of dating apps, Léa, described as sentimental and romantic, hopes to share everything with a tall, slender man, preferably with a goatee.
“I don’t want to end my days alone,” Léa shares.
She dreams of mountain hikes, trips to the sea, museum visits, and Alsatian theater.
Local Events and Offers
If you’re in the Altkirch area, here are a few things happening:
- Cinema in Altkirch: A special Valentine’s Day showing of “Bridget Jones: Mad About Him” with surprises and prizes.
- Flowers in Bettendorf: Local florist Céline Koelbert is selling seasonal bouquets from southern France and northern Italy.
- Werentzhouse Museum: Open on Valentine’s Day and Sunday, February 16th.
And, of course, numerous businesses are offering Valentine’s Day deals, from jewelers to lingerie shops!
Seems like the whole town is getting in on the act.
Final Thoughts: What Does Saint-Valentin *Really* Mean?
So, is Saint-Valentin a commercial gimmick, a genuine celebration of love, or something in between?
Maybe it’s a little of each.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, connecting with friends, or simply treating yourself, remember that love comes in many forms.
And perhaps, like Violette Pinto, the greatest joy comes from helping others find their own happiness.
What will you do this Saint-Valentin?
Decoding Saint-Valentin: Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the buzz about Violette Pinto’s Facebook group?
Violette Pinto created the Facebook group “Sorties entre célibataires quadra et plus, dans le 37 et limitrophes” to connect singles over forty.
It’s led to over 200 couples and even a wedding!
What is a “célicouple”?
A “célicouple” is a couple who maintains separate residences, allowing for both togetherness and independence, as exemplified by Peggy and Jean-Philippe.
Why do some people dislike Valentine’s Day?
Some people view Valentine’s Day as a commercial holiday that inflates prices and puts pressure on couples, while others simply prefer to celebrate love throughout the year.
Beyond the Clichés: Embracing Love in All Forms
Ultimately, Saint-Valentin’s meaning is personal.
Whether you choose to celebrate with grand gestures, quiet moments, or not at all, the key is to embrace love and connection in a way that feels authentic to you.
The stories shared highlight the diverse ways people find and celebrate love, proving there’s no one-size-fits-all approach.
Your Saint-Valentin Adventure: Next Steps
- Reflect on your values: Consider what love and connection mean to you.
- Explore local events: Check out activities in your area, whether it’s a singles party or a cozy movie night.
- Embrace creativity: Think outside the box and plan a unique celebration that reflects your personality.
