As Valentine’s Day approaches, many of us turn to Google for ideas, inspiration, and reassurance. From the flowers, chocolates, and date night, it all feels familiar. However, when you step back and look at the most common Valentine’s Day searches so far this year, something new seems to be trending. These searches don’t just show how people are celebrating, they reveal how people are feeling and what they’re needing. It’s abundantly clear that Valentine’s Day matters to us and being a part of something lets us feel connected on this special day is one way we feel satisfied.
Classic Valentine’s traditions are still front and center according to Google.com. Searches for flower bouquet delivery, chocolate-covered strawberries, personalized gifts, romantic quotes, and GIFs top the list. Alongside those staples have also come newer, more playful, and more personal ideas that signal a shift away from pressure and toward connection. There’s a desire that’s continuously showing up to “show up,” as doing something special, meaningful, and not necessarily expensive. The trends show people are not asking about costs or expenses; they are interested in how unique items or experiences might be, or even how to make the day special in solo ways too.
Food trends always tell us a large part of the story. Every February, searches spike for heart-shaped pizzas, heart-shaped cakes, and how to make chocolate-covered strawberries. This year, interest in a heart-shaped taco platter jumped by more than 300 percent according to Google. It’s fun, imperfect, and low stress! This points towards less focus on presentation, more about sharing a meal and enjoying the moment. How easy is that? Grab a fun platter and then rest can be whatever you enjoy!
Date-night searches are showing similar trends. Restaurants are still popular, but “experiences” are topping the lists too. Think of escape rooms, arcades, paint-and-sip nights, axe throwing, and even rage rooms. These activities emphasize laughter, movement, and novelty memory-making events that naturally reduce stress and strengthen connection. These dates also combine the “going out,” with the gift, making it a perfect swap for those looking for less “stuff.”
Another growing trend is the rise of alternative celebrations. Searches for Galentine’s Day captions, what to bring to a Galentine’s party, and small gifts for friends continue to climb. Valentine’s Day is no longer just about romantic relationships. It’s increasingly about celebrating friendship, family, and chosen community. From a wellness perspective, that’s a powerful shift. Strong social connections are one of the key factors in long-term mental and emotional health. Gifts and random acts of kindness for non-romantic partners will be what helps the sales hit new heights this year! “Fancy Nancy,” “Pretty in Pink” and just plain “Galentine” parties are what its all about this year.
Relationship-related searches also tell a more complex story. Every year, searches for “when to break up” often outnumber searches for “when to propose.” Valentine’s Day has a way of bringing clarity. While that can feel heavy, it also reflects a growing focus on honesty, boundaries, and self-respect, which are essential parts of emotional well-being. This search is still topping the list, showing some people have made it through those end-of-the-year holidays and instead of starting the year on a clean slate, they are waiting until after Valentine’s Day to put their partner in the lonely-hearts club.
When you wrap all of this up in a pretty bow, these trends suggest that people are craving connection without pressure, celebration without comparison, and moments that feel real, rather than performative. From a health and wellness standpoint, which makes sense and it’s great news! Smaller, more meaningful experiences reduce stress. Shared activities strengthen emotional resilience. This is how you can find yourself in the Happy Hearts Club this Valentine’s Day and every day. Finding value in the small moments and investing in quality over quantity is always more fulfilling for you and those around you.
What could make these happy hearts day even more special? Giving back! That’s why we’ve planned a Valentine’s Day date for individuals, couples, or families to join us in the community to give back! Be our Valentine this Saturday, February 14th at 8:30 a.m. as we spread the love and raise funds for the American Heart Association at our Drums and Dazzle event, held at The Wellness Center, 1734 Crawford Farm Road in Newport. This fun-raiser supports our local American Heart Association group and features a high-energy Drums Alive workout, followed by a DIY heart-shaped sun catcher craft. Because we know that a happy heart also loves giving back!
That’s the spirit behind what we like to call the Happy Hearts Club. This is an unofficial invitation inspired by what people are already searching for and needing. Membership doesn’t depend on relationship status, fancy plans, or perfect traditions. It’s about choosing ways to celebrate that support your mental, emotional, and social health. It’s about finding joy in connection with yourself, others or even in just the present moment.
If you need a membership to a happy heart’s club , join us this Valentine’s Day as a meaningful way to move your body, connect with others, and give back to a cause that truly matters. The trends don’t lie, people aren’t asking for more, they’re asking for meaning! At The Wellness Center we think that sometimes, the healthiest way to celebrate love is to spread it, and it’s even better when we do it together. Join the trend this Valentine’s Day, it’s good for you! Join The Happy Heart’s Club!