From Love Letters to Video Messages: How Valentine’s Day Gifting Has Changed

How we show appreciation has changed — at home and at work

A love letter sealed with wax. A bouquet of flowers delivered to the office. The way we express appreciation has evolved, shaped by technology and the need for convenience.

Valentine’s Day is proof that recognition has shifted, and not just in relationships. The workplace has followed a similar path.

A handwritten thank-you note has been replaced by automated reward programs. Bonuses have taken the place of everyday appreciation. But one thing remains the same: thoughtfulness makes an impact.

When a simple 'thank you' was enough

Before emails, Slack messages and corporate incentives, appreciation was more direct.

? Handwritten love letters were treasured and kept for years.

? A thank-you note from a manager felt personal and meaningful.

As businesses grew, so did the need for structured recognition - but efficiency doesn’t always mean better.

The rise of flowers, chocolates and workplace rewards

By the 20th century, appreciation became more about things than words.

? Chocolates and flowers became the go-to Valentine’s gifts, largely thanks to clever marketing from Cadbury and florists.

? Gift cards and branded merchandise became common workplace rewards, offering quick but impersonal recognition.

These gifts were well-intended but often missed the personal touch that makes recognition feel meaningful.

Why more companies are choosing experiences over standard gifts

A generic reward is easy. A meaningful reward is memorable. That’s why more businesses are moving away from predictable gifts and offering employees something they actually want.

? A flexible gift card instead of a pre-selected gift that might not suit them.

? A personal experience instead of generic gift hamper.

With a flexible gift card, employees can choose an experience that fits their interests, making recognition feel personal, without the guesswork. Employees, like anyone else, appreciate recognition that gives them the freedom to choose something they’ll genuinely enjoy.

The digital shift: Instant, personalised recognition

With remote work and global teams, digital tools have made recognition both easier and more personal.

? Video messages allow leaders to share meaningful appreciation without scheduling another meeting.

? Experience vouchers give employees a choice, rather than assuming what they’d like.

That’s why VideoGRAM is a great option - it’s a free feature with Golden Moments vouchers that adds a personal touch, making recognition feel more meaningful, even from a distance.

Key takeaways for HR and business owners:

? Employees value personal appreciation more than generic rewards

? Experiences create stronger engagement than another branded gift

? Technology makes recognition easier, but it still needs to feel meaningful

? A sincere 'thank you' will always mean more than a transactional reward

From love letters to video messages, the way we show appreciation has changed. But whether it’s a Valentine’s gift or workplace recognition, people remember the thought behind it, not the price tag.

How does your company make employees feel valued?

Here at Golden Moments, we can provide you with a range of corporate packages designed to positively impact your relationship with your employees as well improve your customer base and achieve your business goals.

Give our corporate team a call today on +44 (0) 2393 877130 or email us at [email protected] to discuss how you can introduce a successful rewards and recognition program with Golden Moments!