Americans are expected to spend a total of $19.7 billion this Valentines Day weekend, according to the National Retail Federation. The average American will spend around just under $150 on everything from flowers, candy, cards, jewelry, and much more. Many Texomans who spoke with Newschannel 6 said that they anticipated spending between $75-$50 dollars.
“I think of love, love, love,” said Monika Williams.
After purchasing flowers, candy, and balloons Williams has spent around $55 on her someone special for this Valentines day.
“Actually have had a good turnout of people coming in this year of course a lot of people for convenience are using the internet,” said Karen Gibson, Owner of Wichita Falls House of Flowers.
Gibson sold Williams the flowers she will soon present to her Valentine. While Gibson said she prefers the person to person business nearly 40% of her sales today are done online. According to the NRF round 20% of those living in the United States will make their buys online this Valentines Day weekend.
Another big seller is cards. The American Card Association anticipates around 145 million cards to be sold February 12th-14th.
“We started making ourhomeade fudge seven years ago,” said Jill Montz, manager for the Pecan Shed in Wichita Falls.
When it comes to candy Americans are expected to spend around $1.7 billion on candy.
“For the months of February especially the two or three days surrounding Valentines Day it makes up a good 10% of our sales for the year,” said Montz.
While many people focus on what to purchase or buy for their special loved on. Brenda Rodgers of Wichita Falls explained you can’t simply buy love.
“It’s not about the money, it’s about spending time with people you love and appreciation of what you have I think,” said Rodgers.
– Newschannel 6