Creston blooms on Valentine’s Day

Snow isn’t the only thing in the air. Romances around Union County bloom brightest on holidays like today.

With more than 12,000 residents, Union County couples are sure to celebrate Valentine’s Day in various ways. For a small number of spouses, this is a special holiday - their first Valentine’s Day as a married couple. According to the Union County Recorder’s office, the county had 83 marriage applications in 2024.

Whether a newlywed, just dating or married for many years, one of the most popular Valentine’s Day gifts is a bouquet of flowers, something Creston’s florists are very aware of.

“Preorders, I would say at least 200 or more. Same-day purchases seem to be growing,” Kelly’s Flowers owner Jacque Greene said. “I would say there’s probably at least 200 to 300 that walk through the door [Valentine’s Day]. It can be really crazy.”

Greene said the second busiest holiday is Mother’s Day, though that holiday affects a smaller portion of Union County’s population.

Between Kelly’s Flowers and plant shop Greens N’ Things, more than 500 bouquets are purchased for Valentine’s Day. This year, Greens N’ Things is also offering various selections from Chocolaterie Stam.

For the last 14 years, Creston’s Friends of the Library have made cookies another Valentine’s Day staple. Every year, the Friends get together to decorate heart-shaped cookies as a fundraiser for their organization. When the group announced they would be stopping the fundraiser this year, community support quickly brought it back.

This year, a record-breaking 3,048 cookies were ordered, with the Friends baking an extra 700 for library walk-ins this week. Cookies can be purchased for $2 per cookie, a dozen for $16.

Maybe your Valentine this year is a little furrier than most. Luckily, Dog Gone Rescue has gifts for this Valentine, too. From 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. today, dog treats will be available for purchase at Union County Abstract, made fresh by the First Presbyterian Youth Group. Treats are $5 a bag and $0.50 for dog-friendly frosting.

Even if Valentine’s Day gifts aren’t up your alley, Creston has other offerings for couples searching for something to do.

Hot Air Brewing is hosting a Paint Your Valentine evening. For $40 per couple, the evening includes painting supplies, step-by-step instructions and a drink for each person. The event begins at 7 p.m.

For food, 1776 Fire House and Lounge is offering a prime rib or lobster tail and sirloin dinner, while Adams Street Espresso has a Valentine’s Day themed coffee flight Saturday morning.

There’s plenty to do in Creston on this chilly Valentine’s Day, no matter what love you’re celebrating.