Valentine’s Day brings joy to businesses, especially florists and people reflect on the deeper meaning of love, with varying perspectives on how the day symbolizes affection, connection, and celebration.

For those who spoke with The New Times on Friday, February 14, they shared their thoughts on Valentine’s Day.

Valentine's Day boosts hospitality industry

Olivier Mugenzi, Sales and Marketing Manager at Mosphere Restaurant, said how Valentine’s Day significantly impacts the hospitality industry, particularly restaurants.

ALSO READ: Valentine: The coloniality of love, desire, and romance

According to Mugenzi, Valentine’s Day stands out as a special occasion where people express gratitude and romance, not only to their partners but also to their families and friends.

"Valentine&039;s Day is a very significant day for hospitality businesses, especially restaurants. For most people, it reminds them of expressing a feeling of gratitude and romance," Mugenzi said.

He underscored that the restaurant acts as a supplier of tokens for people to express these feelings, making Valentine’s Day a busy and profitable day.

ALSO READ: Valentine’s Day in Kigali: Top events to celebrate love and connection

Mugenzi mentioned that his restaurant had a special event planned for Valentine&039;s Day, featuring a dining experience with a live band, and was fully booked.

"Today we are sold out...Valentine's Day is always good for us as a restaurant and hotel in general," he added.

"We've been hosting Valentine's Day events for years and it has always been amazing...we are almost sold out today."

ALSO READ: Celebrate love with Radisson Blu Kigali’s exclusive Valentine’s Day offers

Valentine&039;s Day as a symbol of love and connection

Samrah Ahmed, a 22-year-old student from Sudan studying Architecture at the University of Rwanda, explained his belief in the significance of Valentine's Day.

"I feel that Valentine's Day is a reminder for couples to budget...because Valentine's symbolizes connection, love, and affection," he said. Although he is currently single, Ahmed expressed hope to celebrate the occasion in the future.

Expressions of love through gestures

TikTok personality Yogechi Minitito was seen distributing flowers in the spirit of Valentine’s Day.

He pointed out the importance of sharing love with others.

"It's a day of love, a month of love...I think you have to share with your loved ones, spend time with them, and show affection," he said.

ALSO READ: Eight must-watch movies this Valentine’s Day

Minitito also revealed that he had something special planned for his girlfriend, although he kept the details a surprise.

Valentine&039;s Day as a day of togetherness

Gaston Uwurukundo, who works in Kisimenti, said that he believes in Valentine's Day because it provides an opportunity for people, who are often busy with work, to spend quality time with their loved ones.

"In today’s world, most people are busy, and they don’t have time for their families or loved ones. Valentine’s Day is a chance for those who have time to enjoy it together," he noted.

Uwurukundo also reflected on his Christian faith, stating that love is central to his beliefs. "God is love, and I am a Christian man, so I believe in love," he said.

Although undecided about how to surprise his girlfriend, he expressed a deep commitment to love and relationships.

The ever-growing demand for flowers

Josie Bisabo Ugirase said Valentine’s Day continues to be a key date for flower sales, as demand surges year after year.

She explained that while flowers are also popular gifts during occasions like Christmas, Mother’s Day, and Women’s Day, the demand on Valentine's Day remains unparalleled.

In Rwanda, the culture of giving and receiving flowers has grown as more people recognize their value beyond just decoration.

"In the past, flowers were primarily used for environmental purposes or home decoration, but today, professional florists cultivate resilient varieties that last longer and serve as heartfelt gifts,” she added.

The temporary beauty of flowers blooming for a short period before they wither is what makes them even more meaningful as a symbol of love, she said.

"Flowers symbolize the beauty of the moment, making them a perfect gift for Valentine’s Day," she said.