The origins of the world’s beloved, commercially-successful holiday celebrated around the world come from Rome, although its beginning varies in different legends. Valentine’s Day in the US is celebrated annually on Feb. 14 as a way to honor the people in your life that you love.

However, I believe that while the holiday has good intentions, it’s an excuse for companies to raise their prices to unnecessary levels in the name of “love.” I also think society shouldn’t wait for holidays to celebrate and spend time with the people we appreciate.

In the US, the average consumer spends $142.31 each Valentine’s day. As a whole, $18.9 billion is spent towards gifts and other commemorative items, making it one of the US’s most expensive holidays. This money spent on chocolate, flowers and expensive jewelry to me feels unnecessary. I understand people who value materialistic things as expressions of love, but in the context of Valentine’s Day it feels cheaper; gifts should have value because of the person they’re coming from, not because of a prompted holiday which adds potential pressure to please.

Valentine’s Day is also, at its core, marketed towards couples and anybody in a romantic relationship, which is a direct split of society. Anybody should be able to celebrate with people they love—platonically or familiarly. While “galentine’s” parties are becoming more popular, there is still a heavy emphasis on being with a special someone. Generally speaking, Valentine’s Day should not be a special day. Couples should treat each other with love and respect every day, the only difference on Feb. 14 being that you buy a nice card or present to show appreciation—like a birthday. While I appreciate the sentiment, Valentine’s Day is overrated and has strayed too far from its romantic roots.