Prelude to Valentine's: It's St. Dwynwen's Day

Why wait for Valentine's Day to reveal your romantic feelings? Today is Dydd Santes Dwynwen, or Day of Saint Dwynwen, the Welsh patron saint of lovers. Considered to be the Welsh equivalent of Valentine's Day, the day is celebrated annually on January 25th. Welsh couples the world over are using today as an excuse to express their love.

As the story goes, Dwynwen falls in love with a young man named Maelon, but her father will not allow them to be married. Heartbroken, Dwynwen prays to forget Maelon, and an angel provides her with a potion that ends up turning him to ice. Dwynwen then prays for three requests to be granted: 1) that God release Maelon and allow him to live, 2) that she never marry and 3) that God look after and fulfill the wishes of all true lovers. Her wishes were granted, and, as proof of her gratitude, Dwynwen founded a convent and devoted her life to worship.

Traditionally, St. Dwynwen's Day is celebrated by giving a card declaring your love to your interest (not unlike a "Valentine"). These handmade silver cards or these gold cards are perfect for either St. Dwynwen's Day or St. Valentine's Day.

Just like on Valentine's Day, people throw parties and concerts in celebration, but a lot of couples prefer to spend the night in. Create the perfect surprise homemade dinner with a delicious steak dinner from Omaha Steaks. If red meat isn't your thing, try the chicken cordon bleu dinner. And don't forget the details: Give your table that extra-special something by adding these Fifth Avenue crystal candle holders for a touch of romance.

After dinner, indulge your loved one with the gift of a relaxing bath set and a scented candle (or two). And if you want to keep the romantic evenings going throughout the year, take advantage of a monthly wine club subscription; it's a gift that will definitely keep on giving.

Are you planning on doing anything for St. Dwynwen's day? Have you started making your Valentine's Day plans?

Posted by Emily Harrison