Leap Year Proposals – the origins

 

 

Have you been waiting four years for 29th February to roll around?   Here’s how to have a successful Leap Year marriage proposal.

Most of you will know that this year is a Leap Year, which happens every four years. And that means we get an extra day in February!

The origins of the leap year marriage proposal tradition seem to be obscured by time and the dates and names of those involved aren’t set in stone. But according to Irish tradition, it’s all down to St Brigid of Kildare in Ireland. In the 5th Century she complained to St Patrick about women having to wait for men to propose. So apparently, he said that women could propose. But only on 29th February, which meant on one day every four years.
The tradition has persisted through time, so it’s obviously hit a cord with nubile women aching to take matters into their own hands.

 

 

 

In these days of equality, it’s perfectly acceptable for women young and not so young, to ask the man or woman they love to marry them. No need to wait four years!

However, be aware that if you do decide to pop the question on 29th February for a leap year marriage proposal, or any other date during the year, you run the same risk as a hot-blooded male. Your beloved may say no!

 

 

Be prepared

 

 

 

So, although it may sound obvious, be as sure as you can be of a positive response before you take the plunge. There may be a reason why your partner hasn’t asked you. He or she may not be ready to make that commitment just yet.

There could be many reasons for this, but whatever they are it doesn’t mean it will never happen – just not right now. You’ll have to take a realistic and considered judgement on this. No-one said it would be easy!

 

 

 

 

Setting the Scene

 

 

Once you’ve made the important decision to ask ‘the’ question, setting the scene for your leap year marriage proposal is important. It’s a momentous occasion and one that deserves some thought. You’ll never forget this day and maybe your children and grandchildren will want to know about it too!
Try and make your proposal one that fits in with the style and personalities of you both. It doesn’t have to be overly romantic if you aren’t that way inclined. But you can still make sure it’s special.
If your partner is quiet and reserved by nature it makes sense not to go for a full-on public proposal. Although some might appreciate this you need to think about it carefully. And how would you feel if you didn’t get the answer you were hoping for?

 

 

Be Creative

 

 

It’s usually best to make it a private and intimate occasion with just the two of you. You can be creative with the setting for the proposal. You could arrange a special night in or out, or a romantic weekend away. If you like to be creative you can do something like proposing on the top of a mountain/hill – think the Lake District, Snowdonia National Park (weather permitting).  Does a Scottish Loch or Lake Windermere appeal?

If that’s not your thing, the London Eye is apparently very popular for proposals and you can pay for a Pod to yourselves (plus a waiter to pop the champagne). What about Anne Hathaway’s Cottage in Stratford-Upon-Avon or in the grounds of a National Trust property.   If you really want to push the boat out, think about a trip to Paris, Venice or Rome. Who could resist a proposal in any of these romantic locations.

 

 

Rings

 

 

 

Traditionally it’s the lady who wears an engagement ring. But there’s no reason why a man can’t wear one too. An alternative is to present your man with a special watch. Do whatever feels right and what fits in with your partner’s personal style. Don’t give some extravagant piece of bling to your guy/gal if that’s your style but not theirs.

 

 

Good Luck!

 

 

 

 

Whenever and wherever you decide to ‘pop the question’ be confident and just do it!

I’m pretty sure that if you’ve carefully considered everything, and in your heart you know it’s the right time, then you’ll get the answer that you want.

When you’re ready to start planning your wedding day and the wedding ceremony, I’ll be delighted to help you to create the ceremony that you’ve dreamed of.  Find out how you can have a personalised ceremony all about your love story and with no boring rules.  If it sounds up your street – get in touch for a chat.