Tips on longevity in romance

‘‘If there is anything upsetting you, with things happening at home, don’t bottle it up, talk about it. That’s the best thing you can do.’’

For Joyce, a healthy marriage is made up of all the corny stuff, the kind of things they still make time for.

‘‘It’s about tolerance, smiling and give and take. Lots of kisses and cuddles. It sounds corny - but it’s all those things. Take each day as it comes and do your best.’’

They agree romance is important but should not be saved just for Valentine’s Day.

They take any opportunity to enjoy time together. And a nice restaurant is exactly where you will find them on Valentine’s Day. for the florist, who enjoys helping people gift their love to others.

‘‘It’s a really nice time to show your appreciation to the people you love. ‘‘I think it’s really lovely.’’ She said it’s not only people in love who gift flowers, but people use the day to just tell others that they are thinking of them.

‘‘People gift flowers to their friends and one man comes in to gift flowers to all his children on Valentine’s Day.’’

She said people’s orders included teddy bears, chocolates and balloons but roses are always the favourite and definitely the most popular flower in February.

While Matamata’s Pippins Flowers co-owner Amy Crozier agrees that roses are popular on Valentine’s Day - red is not for everyone.

‘‘It’s not just the rose that says I love you - but more the thought behind it.’’ People were putting a lot of thought into it, ordering roses, but in their favourite colour as well as mixed bouquets.