Editor’s letter

What does romance mean to you? Roses, chocolate, love notes? Turns out for me, it’s a hat – but more on that later.

Valentine’s Day is nearly upon us and if you’re not feeling particularly romantic, you will be by the time you’ve read all the schmaltz in our Love Issue. Along with gorgeous gift ideas, breathtaking bridal fashion, sweet treats and tips on staying connected, we have some beautiful love stories which will make you go “awww”.

I’m glued to The BacheloretteNZ at the moment – and Dr Lesina shares secrets on how to win her heart (page 70). Plus host Art has made the girls in the office swoon as he explains how he keeps the romance alive with Matilda every day of the year (page 16). TheCasketeers couple Francis and Kaiora deal with grief and heartbreak on a daily basis – and they’ve known their own share of tough times – but the pair’s devotion to each other through thick and thin over 15 years is inspiring (page 22).

Two Kiwi real-life reads have me in awe at the power of love this week. A Kapiti couple recently renewed their vows after conquering the husband’s P and gambling addictions (page 34). And a Christchurch guy was surprised his Tinder date hailed from Gloriavale – and his love and acceptance of her unconventional family is lovely to read (page 36).

Life is very busy and complicated, and I haven’t had any time to think about my own romance this week. Instead I was tired and grumpy when my husband returned from an overseas holiday after a week of the mumwork juggle. I got home late last night, avoided the tennis spectators downstairs and went straight to bed. But between sets my husband appeared, kissed me on the head and whispered “hello honey”. He then pulled out a huge box he’d lugged home from Melbourne. In it was a wide-brimmed Panama hat … and it’s coral! I love it! With one romantic gesture, I went to sleep with a smile. He had me at “hello honey” – but the hat was the clincher.