Nothing shows your Valentine how you feel better than words written by someone else on a mass-produced Valentine's Day card.
The modern tradition of exchanging printed Valentine's cards began in the 1840s with Esther A. Howland, or the "Mother of Valentine," according to History.com. Howland would decorate the cards with real lace and ribbons. Now, the Greeting Card Association says Valentine's Day cards are the second most popular greeting cards in the U.S., with around 145 million units purchased every year.
It seems, even a century ago, people were having trouble illustrating just how they felt on a romantic greeting card. The New York Public Library has an online gallery of Valentine's cards from the early days of mass-produced love letters. See if any of these cards have what it takes to woo your special person this Valentine's Day.
All aboard the Love Express! When a simple bouquet won't do the trick, nothing is sweeter than the scent of a big, purple flower train.
Something about this is wildly romantic, I'm sure.
Now you know what to send the person who rejected you.
Everyone loves winking, dogs and impeccably styled hair.
True love is two cherubs playing tennis with the hearts of people you care about. Good rally, team.
Sneaking up on people while they slept on benches outdoors was the original Tinder.
"I just stopped by naked with my wheelbarrow full of hearts to say 'I love you.'"
Whatever this is trying to communicate, this boy doesn't look so sure of it.
These cards may have worked 100 years ago, but if you don't think they will be as effective now, keep your eye out for modern illustrations of affection this Valentine's Day.
