The feelings surrounding Valentine’s Day at New Trier aren’t as sweet as the holiday would suggest.

Although the day is meant to be filled with love and happiness, not all people feel that it should be recognized as heavily as it is. Junior Jack French is not a fan of this holiday. French said, “I think it’s overrated for people our age. I don’t think people are really in that serious of relationships our age to be able to do that type of thing.”

Sophomore Peter Murray also had no intention in partaking in Valentine’s Day festivities this upcoming February.

Murray, like many others, believes that Valentine’s Day is merely a let down for those who are not involved in a romantic relationship. “Valentine’s Day gets you down when you don’t have a girlfriend or boyfriend to share it with,” Murray said. “When you don’t have someone you ‘love’ you don’t feel included in the festivities that others get to partake in.”

Along with the thought that Valentine’s Day is not inclusive or considerate, some people also think it is only a Hallmark holiday, created with the intention of fueling business profits.

In 2013 alone, over 18.6 billion was spent in the United States on Valentine’s Day according to CNN. Junior Tommy Solberg said, “I think Valentine’s Day is a way for companies to make more money. It’s designed to be appealing in many expensive ways yet the day holds no true significant meaning.”

Although there are many who do not choose to partake in this holiday, there are also those who celebrate it with pride.

Sophomore Brendan Michelon said, “Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to express the love for the special person in your life.” Sophomore Shane Fitzpatrick said, “I think Valentine’s Day is great because it is a day dedicated to showing your love to the people in your life.”

Many students have different opinions about Valentine’s Day. Some think of love and roses, while others think of heartbreak and loneliness.

Junior Griffin DeLoach happens to love Valentine’s Day. “I really like Valentine’s Day. I’m a romantic kind of guy. When I think of Valentine’s Day I think of roses and chocolate and other stuff like that.”

The symbol of flowers for Valentine’s Day seems to be popular along with many other luxury type gifts. In 2014 alone, over 52 million was spent purchasing flowers on Valentine’s Day.

The jewelry market came close to that with around 50 million dollars being spent on Valentine’s Day, according to CNN. Regardless of any opposition to the day, Valentine’s Day is still a huge business day for many store owners and retailers across the country.

Valentine’s Day is meant to be spent showing those you care about how much you appreciate them. Although some may question its authenticity as a holiday, others find this day to be quite romantic and endearing. Spend this Valentine’s Day in good spirits and show someone who’s special to you how much you care about them.