The day of love is just around the corner, but how are Brits planning on expressing themselves this Valentine’s Day? From gushy letters to hilarious (or some may say rude) cards, there are a bunch of ways to tell your other half just how much you appreciate them. But is one way more popular than the other? And are Brits leaning towards more humorous expressions of affection nowadays?
To find out, we analysed card sales data from 2022-2024, looking at which card categories have been flying off the shelves. We uncovered which locations across the UK are sending the most cards, as well as which regions seem to prefer cheeky over traditional designs. Intrigued? Dive into our full rundown below!
Which regions in the UK are showing the most love?
By analysing Valentine’s card sales data from 2023-2024 compared to 2022-2023, we’ve uncovered in which UK locations people are embracing their romantic sides. It turns out many in Manchester are getting in the Valentine’s Day spirit, evidenced by the huge 86% increase we’ve seen in card sales (compared to Liverpool’s 50% and Bristol’s 40%).
Cities like Glasgow and London have seen a 37% increase, while sales in Leeds and Kirklees have grown by 31% and 30%. Birmingham, Bournemouth, and County Durham all experienced steady increases of 28%, with Dorset and Cornwall showing more modest growths, sitting at 13% and 4%.
But what kinds of Valentine’s cards do Brits adore? Well, rude cards have surged in popularity between 2022-2024, and we found a whopping 54% increase in sales overall! That’s right, people are trading traditional messaging for more tongue-in-cheek humour nowadays. Funny card sales also skyrocketed by 34%, showing that for many, sappiness might be a thing of the past…
How do card buying trends vary across the country?
Next, using card sales data from 2024, let’s uncover the most popular Valentine’s card categories by location! Those in Liverpool show their romantic side via humour the most, with 45% opting for a funny Valentine’s card, compared to just 2% picking a traditionally pretty design. We found similar results for shoppers in Manchester, with 39% opting for a card infused with humour!
Those in Stockport and Chester are also channelling their amusing sides, with funny card sales increasing by 39% and 40% (with figures in this range being seen in most regions). There’s less of a demand for ‘pretty’ cards, with many areas seeing just a 2% increase, yet traditional ‘love’ cards are still standing their ground, with areas like Buckinghamshire showing a 32% increase!
But what about cards that take things one step further, straying into the cheekily rude territory?
Well, Cornwall, Wiltshire, and County Durham show the highest increases for rude cards (sitting at 15%), with many shoppers opting for designs that’ll have their partner laughing (or blushing). With a 14% increase, Bournemouth follows closely behind.
So, it would appear that nothing says “I love you” like a card that pokes fun or showcases humour. Having said this, there’s still a clear demand for romantic designs, with many shoppers going down the traditional route to express their affection.
Top tips for nailing the perfect Valentine’s card this year
Feeling overwhelmed by all the different options? Here are a few top tips to bear in mind when you’re searching for the perfect Valentine’s card:
1. Consider your partner’s love language
Are they all about poems, red roses, and grand romantic gestures? Or do they like to keep things low-key, preferring humour over gushy affection? You know your partner best, so take some time to think carefully about their love language before settling on a design.
If they’re into words of affirmation, your best bet is probably a cute Valentine’s card featuring sentimental messaging—from romantic quotes to endearing phrasing, there are a variety of routes to go down. Or, if you and your other half have a banter-based relationship, a hilariously rude card might better suit the vibe.
2. Think about their interests
The next option is to go with a card based on their interests. From illustrations featuring famous faces to movie quotes and more, show them just how well you know them by picking out a super thoughtful design!
Perhaps they’re into their art? If so, select a traditional card boasting a stunning illustration. Also, don’t forget to personalise your gifting to make your loved one feel seen. Whether they’re into chocolates, flowers, or experience-based gifts, surprise them with something unique this February 14th.
3. Personalise it
While a unique card is bound to be a hit, make sure to craft a heartfelt message inside for double the thoughtfulness. Whether it’s a short and sweet message or a full-blown declaration of love, take some time to let your other half know just how much they mean to you. Lost for words? We’ve got a guide on what to write in a Valentine’s Day card which is filled to the brim with ideas!
So, there we have it: our insights on the nation’s favourite Valentine’s cards (as well as how to pick out the perfect design). Every relationship is different, so whether you plan on channelling your inner cupid or jokester, we’ve got an array of Valentine’s Day Cards for you to explore here at thortful.
From funny Valentine’s cards to romantic options for all you lovebirds out there, we’ve got you covered this year. Our independent illustrators are a talented bunch, designing cards for him, for her, and of course from the dog. So, dive into whichever collection takes your fancy, and find the perfect design today!
