Starter Story - The $24B day of love

According to a survey, the average amount spent per person on Valentine's Day in 2022 was $175.41.

And a whopping $23.9 billion was spent on Valentine’s Day last year.

It’s clear that some people take this date’s celebration seriously. And when that happens, they tend to be less sensitive to price. 

“It’s just once a year; what the heck!”

Today, I wanted to showcase some businesses that are intrinsically designed to thrive on this celebration and others that could easily adapt their marketing message to get a revenue bump in February.

Let’s take a look:

Chocolate

The quintessential St. Valentine’s gift.

However, competing with big brands placed by the register will be hard. Better to add some twist to stand out.

Sarah’s dog-themed chocolate brand generates $12K/month and donates all profits to animal rescue organizations.

Wanna get extra spicy? Check out how this founder makes $125K/month selling chocolate d*cks. 

Cakes 

Not a chocolate fan? That’s ok. Nobody’s perfect. 

Cakes are also great for this celebration. 

Amanda started her dream bakery with just $500 and tries to be part of people’s every special occasion (she made Dalai Lama’s 80th birthday cake!)

Flower business

Roses are red,
Violets are blue,
A flower business can be,
Perfect for you.

Birthdays, Mother’s day, get well soon moments, and of course, to say “I love you.” Flowers are the perfect gift in many situations.

And they can also be the cornerstone of a profitable business.

Carlos’ modern flowers and plants shop yields $120K/month. 

And, with just $300, Alexandra started a $10K/month dried flower arrangement business. 

Valentine’s Day cards 

Sometimes it’s hard to come up with words that express how you feel. Many people need help finding the perfect message.

That’s why greeting cards have been around since 1860. 

You can keep it traditional like Jordyn, who makes $4K/month selling handcrafted cards. 

Or go digital. Dayana bootstrapped a $15K/month online greeting cards business. 

Jewelry 

Around 20% of Valentine’s Day consumers are expected to buy jewelry each year. 

A segment as big as that shouldn’t definitely be ignored. 

That doesn’t mean they all are going to buy expensive pieces. 

Of course, “traditional” jewelry business are going to thrive. 

This silver jewelry company went from $200K in debt to $5M/year. 

This business makes $4.6M/year with its ethical engagement rings.

But handcrafted and indie jewel makers can also profit from this day.

These sisters make $4K/month selling handmade real flower and resin jewelry.

And KC built a $100M business with his silicone rings.

Candles

What’s a romantic evening without candles? 

They’re ideal to set the mood and also to market as the perfect purchase. 

And they’re also the perfect business to start to bring in some extra cash. 

DShawn went from making some extra money on the weekends to pocketing $140K/month with her candles. 

And Diana started a $3K/month candle brand with $100 in 30 days.

Surprise vacation

In this super competitive space, there are never enough marketing ideas to run.

Creating a romantic getaway or a couple’s special can take February from a low-season month to a hit month.

People will pay money to save the hours and headaches that come with planning a vacation.

Charlotte turned her passion for traveling into a $15K/month business.

And this couple makes $40K/month planning surprise trips.

Counseling

No shame!

What better day to improve a relationship’s health than the day of love?

Just a friendly sit down with a professional can work wonders.

Pat started a $30K/ month business by helping men of all ages with their relationships.

Conclusion

Valentine's Day is an excellent opportunity to create or promote products and services that appeal to the holiday's romantic and festive atmosphere.

With just a little creativity and business savvy, anyone can capitalize on the occasion to generate sales and build their brand. 

But it's not just Valentine's Day; any special occasion, be it a holiday, anniversary, or even a local festival, can be a goldmine. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur looking to get started or a business owner looking for growth opportunities, take advantage of special occasions like St. Valentine's Day.