Leap Day Proposals in 2020
This year is a leap year and on 29th February the tradition goes that ladies can propose to their partners! As it’s a Saturday this year too, this means there is a lot of scope for a special proposal.
This tradition can seem little outdated in this age of equality, as well as for same-sex couples where this day maybe doesn’t feel relevant. But ladies, if you are planning a Leap Day Proposal, here is a bit more about the tradition and how you could add a Scottish twist to getting down on one knee.
Where did the tradition start?
It appears that the origins of this tradition are ancient and slightly mythical. One theory is that in 1288, Queen Margaret of Scotland passed a law allowing leap day proposals, but given that she was only 5 years old, this seems unlikely.
Another theory is that the Irish saints, St Patrick and St Brigid were the originators. St Brigid supposedly asked St Patrick to allow women to propose after single women complained that their intended were too shy to ask. St Patrick is said to have allowed this to happen every leap year. But again, history shows this may not have been the case as St Brigid was a young girl when St Patrick died.
One firm believer in the tradition was the originator of so many of our current wedding traditions, Queen Victoria, who proposed to Prince Albert – although the proposal was not on 29th February. Other traditions she originated include the wearing of white for brides and having tiny figures of the bride and groom on top of the wedding cake!
Scottish Twists for your proposal
Pick the perfect spot
There are so many places across Scotland that make amazing places to propose. From the Fairy Pools in Skye to next to the Duke of Wellington in Glasgow, pick your iconic Scottish location that makes sense for you as a couple. Consider your time of day as these places can get busy with tourists too! And make sure, if it is an outdoors proposal, you plan for the weather!
Make a special meal
Not the “propose in public” type? Why not make a special meal and include something traditionally Scottish that you both love. Whether its Cumbrae Oysters, smoked Salmon or raspberries from Fife, Scottish food is some of the best around, so add your own twist. Or just toast your engagement with your favourite whisky!
Enjoy the Moment!
Remember that the proposal is about the two of you deciding to spend the rest of your lives together and the moment is yours as much as theirs. So include tartan, shortbread, your ancient broons annual that your granny gave you, but it’s a special moment for you both and you can make it your very own. Just remember to take time to enjoy the moment together.
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