Forget the tired tropes - Arizonans are showing that Valentine's Day is about more than just flowers and chocolate. According to the latest Instacart data, the Grand Canyon State is leading the nation in amorous shopping habits, proving that the spirit of romance is alive and well.
What this really means is that Arizonans are embracing the holiday in all its forms - from classic gifts to more intimate purchases. The data shows a sharp spike in orders for sexual wellness items like vibrators, massagers, and personal lubricants on February 14th, underscoring just how much Arizona residents view Valentine's Day as a time to treat themselves and their partners.
Flowers, Plush, and...Condoms?
Of course, the traditional Valentine's staples are still going strong. Arizonans ordered a whopping 5.86% more flowers, stuffed animals, and candy than the national average, proving that some things never go out of style. But the bigger picture here is that Arizonans are embracing the holiday in a more holistic, unapologetic way.
"What we're seeing is that Valentine's Day has evolved beyond the typical dinner-and-a-dozen-roses routine," says relationship expert Emily Jamea on NPR. "Arizonans are getting creative and making the holiday their own, whether that's through classic gestures or more intimate purchases."
And it's not just Arizona leading the charge - the data shows that Mississippi and other Southern states are also embracing Valentine's in a big way, ordering significantly more holiday-related items than the national average.
The takeaway? This Valentine's Day, forget the cookie-cutter approach. Take a page from Arizona and the South, and make the holiday your own - whether that means long-stemmed roses or a trip to the intimacy aisle.
As this recent report highlights, we could all use a little more romance and self-care these days. So why not start with Arizona as your inspiration?