From The Straits Times    |


Duchesse satin dress with satin bow on waistband as well as printed shirt, pants and bow tie, from Digio Bridal. Lace fascinator, $150, from Gioielli. Pearl necklace, stylist’s own. Photo: Her World Brides December 2015

PROS

An easy date to remember
If you or your better half don’t remember dates very well, this is probably one of the best (and most common) reasons to have a “double celebration”. Getting engaged (or married for that matter) on this day means you’ll have constant annual reminders from Hallmark, jewellers, florists, restaurants and more.

The right ambience
When love is in the air, everything will seem more romantic. If you’re planning to propose in a restaurant, hotel, or even at the beach, chances are, most of them will already have the right setting for a marriage proposal (read: balloons, flowers, tealights, and so on).

It’s pocket-friendly
Don’t get us wrong. We’re actually referring to the number of presents you’ll have to get your fiancee or wife. One date, one anniversary, one occasion to celebrate, right?

It’s symbolic
Before you write off the holiday as yet another marketing gimmick, the underlying meaning of it, is to celebrate an undying love.

CONS

It’s expensive
Unless you’re planning to propose at home without the fancy dinners and flowers, your proposal will cost (and we’re not just talking about the ring here). Flowers, restaurants, hotels, as well as other establishments will mark up their prices in the name of St. Valentine. Not such a great idea now, is it.

It’ll get crowded
When all the couples are looking to celebrate, chances are, it’ll be hard to get reservations at your favourite place. Plus, if you prefer to keep things low-key and intimate, having the proposal in the middle of a crowded mall isn’t the best idea.

It’s cliche
If you prefer to have your engagement anniversary paired with another significant date, there are many others for you to choose from. For instance, the day you went on your first date, either of your birthdays, your parents’ wedding anniversary, and so on. That’ll have more meaning to it, and it won’t seem like a common cliche other couples may be copying, too.

No privacy
As mentioned above, it’ll get crowded at your favourite establishments (especially if you both have a favourite restaurant or other venue to head to for special occasions). If you’re looking for privacy, having a proposal on 14 Feb won’t give you any.