As with most holidays, Texans have our own way of doing things. Sure you can grab some flowers and chocolates or snag a coveted dinner reservation. But romance truly lives in the gestures that are thoughtful and detailed. Texicureans is giving you two unique ways to show your love this month. So, grab your box of chocolates for the journey. We are going to Valentine, Texas by mail and sharing the sweetest outdoor picnic option right here in New Braunfels.
Have you ever heard of Valentine, Texas? Located in Jeff Davis County, and between West Texas towns Marfa and Van Horn, folks from everywhere send their valentine to the post office in February to get a postmark before the 14th. It’s quite a feat to accomplish for this little town of 200 to process the added post, but the community embraces it.
Lore gives a couple of options to the origin of the town’s name. According to the Texas State Historical Association, Valentine was founded and named with the South Pacific Railroad crew, building east, reached the site on February 14, 1882. The other story is that it was named after John Valentine, a significant stock holder in the railroad and president of Wells Fargo.
Get a postmark from Valentine, Texas
Per the Fort Davis Chamber of Commerce, “Each Valentine’s Day the postmaster receives hundreds of requests to have their Valentine postmarked from Valentine, Texas. To have your Valentine sent from Valentine, place your card in an envelope pre-stamped and address to the recipient. Place this in another envelope and mail to:
Postmaster
Valentine, Texas 79854
The postmaster will postmark your envelope with a postmark from Valentine, Texas.”
Plan a Sweet Picnic
While other parts of the US are experiencing chilly, snowy weather, Texas can have perfect days and evenings to enjoy being outdoors. Just bundle up a little and take in a sunny afternoon or bundle up a little more and enjoy the Texas starry nights.
A romantic picnic is a uniquely Texas way to enjoy the holiday. I caught up with Jessi Oehler, owner of Peaceful Picnic, to show us how to WOW your valentine with a romantic dinner.
Jessi set up a romantic Valentines picnic for Andy Powell and his fiance Lauren Lyssy in the outdoor dining area of Gruene Coffee House. Which goes to prove – let your imagination run with options for locations.
Go to Texicureans Youtube channel to view the “how-to” video. You might even catch Andy and Lauren in a “kiss”!
“Hosting a picnic or Table scape is a memorable, fun, unique event that allows you to really connect with your loved ones” enthusiastically exclaims Jessi.
She shares her “recipe” for creating a romantic setting in a few simple steps. Let your imagination soar!
If you’d rather leave the creative genius to Jessi, you can contact her at peacefulpicnicnbtx@gmail.com or 830.302.0120.
You can find her at Peaceful Picnic on Instagram. Jessi has designed picnics for engagements, birthday parties, corporate events, baby showers, date nights, holiday parties and more.
XOXO, Texicureans
Texas Valentine Picnic
Equipment
- 1 Table - Low to ground
- Pillows and Blankets
- 1 Table Runner
- 1 greenery garland, Silk or fresh flowers
- Candlesticks and candles
- Plate Chargers
- Plates, utensils and Napkins (cloth preferred)
Instructions
- Set up a table in a park, backyard, or even living room. Aim for the ground. Throw pillows or blankets to serve as “chairs”.
- Arrange a table runner or use a piece of material as your base
- Top with a garland and sprinkle with either silk or fresh flowers
- Add Candlesticks and scatter small candles
- Set plate chargers for each guest
- Set out plates, utensils, napkins, and glasses Inches above
- Add great food and Enjoy!
Video