Romance lingers at every kiss for Masterton couple Barry and Jenny Sims after a marriage spanning four decades that still makes every day a valentine.
The couple spent two years courting and a year engaged after meeting at a Masterton church youth group in 1965 before choosing February 10 to wed
"because it was the closest we could get to Valentine's Day", Mrs Sims said.
"And we've been best friends as well as lovers ever since. That's the secret."
Every Valentine's Day Mrs Sims sends her man fresh flowers at work, she said, even though the scent on their anniversary bouquets could easily do another round.
Mr Sims has penned poems over the years to his beloved and at the weekend had arranged a limousine ride in the capital to celebrate their ruby wedding anniversary. "But Jenny was ill so my plans were dashed. But it will still happen love waits, forever, that's its nature."
Mr Sims, a long-time marriage celebrant, has over many years in the region married more than 500 couples, he said, and has a unique overview of the ties that bind. "The idea of marriage is gathering momentum among the young again. Now just over half of our couples are married and it's the honesty, trust and commitment that will make the difference every time."
It seems romantic love is also back in vogue among the young, Heaven Scent florist owner Liz Warren said, with many eager young customers, both male and female, having beaten a path to her door this week in time for Valentine's Day.
Flowers ordered through the Masterton company for delivery today will also include cards, chocolates, teddy bears and lingerie, she said, although her own valentine will "probably be any flowers left over".
