12 February 2024 , 20:06
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Valentine's Day is causing a surge of fear among the nation's young Romeos, with many admitting they are scared to step foot in a florist shop. According to recent research by Interflora, 11% of Gen Z and Millennial men find the idea of visiting a florist daunting.
A whopping 30% of all men confessed that shopping for Valentine's gifts for their partner takes them out of their comfort zone. Meanwhile, 14% of millennial men admitted that buying flowers makes them feel insecure and unsure.
Half of the men surveyed worry that their Valentine's gift might not be well received by their partner. Erica Nicholson, Senior Brand Manager at Interflora, said: "Our research revealed that people under 35 can feel out of their depth when it comes to choosing the right Valentine's Day flowers.
She added: "That's where our fabulous florists come in. They take the little details shared either in person, or as part of ordering online, to handcraft a bouquet that says exactly what you want it to."
The study also found that nearly half (48%) of Brits have never bought their partner flowers on Valentine's Day, while most orders are still placed on the day itself. Millennials are among the most generous, with one in three (36%) planning to spend up to £100 on the occasion.
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Dating in today's world has changed the traditional timeline of when to buy your partner flowers. A quarter (25%) believe it's only suitable after three months, while just under a third (30%) think it's fine from the first date.
Roses are still the top pick for men, but women are increasingly looking for something more unique.
Married at First Sight's Georges Berthonneau, who is now happily married to Peggy from the show, shares his top five tips for Gen Z to ace Valentine's Day.
Flowers have power
"Valentine's Day panic? Whatever you do, don't resort to petrol station blooms! Even though we all hate it, tackling the floral fear by chatting with your local florist can give you the wingman you never knew you needed.
"Armed with info on your partner's favourite flowers, colours and textures, you'll ace a personalised bouquet without breaking a sweat. Doghouse avoided, Valentine's Day nailed."
Communication is key
"No matter how much us men think asking for reassurance is a big sign of weakness, it really is the key to success this Valentine's Day. If you're really unsure about what to get for that someone special this February 14th, just ask!
"A simple 'any hints on what you'd like for Valentine's Day?' can save you from any lastminute panic purchases that miss the mark, and let your loved one know that you're thinking of them and want to get them a gift that they really need".
Memories over material
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"Memories always last longer than material gifts, but maybe there's a middle ground that will make your partner feel perfect. An extra keepsake gift like a framed photo from your Valentine's Day meal, or having the beautiful bouquet of flowers you bought dried or pressed into an art display lets your partner keep that Valentine's Day magic alive for years to come".
Social media snooping
"If you're really keen to keep Valentine's Day a secret this year but still want to earn some brownie points, the answer could lie on your partner's social media account. A quick browse of their Instagram grid,TikTokor Pinterest boards could give you a handy hint on what kinds of gifts fit with your loved one's aesthetic without having to ask. A surprise gift that is guaranteed to please, what more could you ask for?".
Joanne Price at AG Price Florist in Hackney, East London, says you're more likely to win at Valentine's Day by conquering fears and making a visit. She explains: "By stepping into a florist shop, we can help create a bouquet that tells your unique love story.
"We'll start by asking questions about the lucky person to help us arrive at a thoughtfully chosen selection of flowers which is likely to earn you extra brownie points.
"Understanding your relationship status is also key to what we will suggest. A dozen long stemmed red roses is perfect for hard launching your relationship but send them too early and you're at risk of giving your partner the ick."
"For new relationships that haven't quite hit the Instagram official status, a spring posy filled with seasonal favourites like narcissi, ranunculus and tulips is a cute choice."
"To avoid cliches, a vibrant palette of hot pinks, lime and purple loosely arranged is one hundred per cent insta worthy and additional points for thinking outside the box AND supporting local."
* For more information on Interflora this Valentine's Day, please visit www.interflora.co.uk.