Valentine’s Day is almost here and I don’t know about you, but I am pretty uninspired by the “chocolate and red roses” way of celebrating. There must be more creative ways of spreading the love on February 14th! Since Valentine’s Day is an international holiday, we have decided to look to our Scandinavian friends and their traditions for inspiration.
In Finland, Valentine’s Day takes a broader, more inclusive theme. There, it is called the “Day of Friendship” and is celebrated with festive dances and other special events.
In Norway, Valentine’s Day holds a prominent place in the social calendar. Not only does Valentine’s Day celebrate love, but notes the coming of spring. Catching sight of mating birds on this day is a sure sign of both love and warmer, brighter days to come.
In Denmark, the younger set have recently made a Valentine’s Day tradition of their own. Gaekkebrev, or “joking letters,” are humorous little poems intended for loved ones. The twist is- these poems are sent anonymously, with the sender’s signature written in a simple code. If the recipient guesses the sender correctly, they receive an egg at Easter!
So this Valentine’s Day, get creative the Scandinavian way! Go out dancing with your friends like the Finns, give a sweet bird-themed present like the Norwegians, or get cheeky like the Danes and pen a silly poem to keep your beloved guessing. Whatever you do, enjoy the holiday and enjoy spending time with the ones you love!
-Ann
In anticipation of Valentine’s Day, we will be having a jewelry show on February 6th from 10am to 4pm. We are excited to welcome two handmade collections that are new to The Century House: Jeji Jewelry and Wakenspun Metalwerks.
Jeji Jewelry
Jessica and Jillian are “two young graphic designers in Chicago on a mission to bring unique, handmade, and stylish (yet affordable) jewelry to the modern-day woman.” Jeji jewelry is a new and ever-evolving collaboration with a fresh and simple design approach. Armed with new stones and the challenge of creating jewelry for any and every occasion, these two women will keep you pleasantly surprised.
Wakenspun Metalwerks
“The beauty of a simple shape. The clean line. The pairing of sparkle from a faceted stone with the rough from an organic form.” These are all elements that inspire Jill Schienle to create her artistic jewelry. Jill is “dedicated to creating jewelry that can be worn as a daily event.” Without mentioning aesthetic, this one statement says a lot about the character of Wakenspun Jewelry. Understated elegance.
Come visit us on February 6th to find help on what to get that special someone in your life for Valentine’s day and to see how jewelry can turn any day into an event.
P.S. There will also be chocolate from Gail Ambrosius, so let us be your one-stop-shop for Valentine’s Day
Yes! We had to take a double take too! You don’t see THIS everyday! The Century House is having a Floor Sample Sale on Friday January 22nd- Saturday January 23rd. With a new year just beginning and new furniture on its way, we just don’t have enough room! To solve our space dilemma, (and maybe yours) we are offering select styles at up to 50% off! Sofas include discontinued styles and fabrics, as well as pieces that just need to find a good home. There will be lots of other great items too! Check out all Three Showrooms and look for the Big Yellow Tags! No, not everything will be discounted - but there will be lots of amazing deals! Feel free to come prepared to load up your finds and take them home. Delivery will be available for an extra fee, and yes, all Floor Sample Sale Items will be Final Sale. We hope to see you for this rare opportunity to save big at The Century House! While you’re here, you can see some of the great new products that have arrived too!
