Ladies, it’s never too early to start planning for a Leap Day role-reversal marriage proposal. Yes, if you’ve been waiting far too long for your significant other to pop the question, Thursday, February 29, 2024, is your day.
![](https://thejewelerblog.files.wordpress.com/2023/12/leapyearproposal3.jpg?w=575)
The concept of women proposing to men on Leap Day is rooted in 5th century Ireland, where St. Brigid of Kildare forged a deal with St. Patrick to permit women to propose to men on a single day once every four years. In Ireland, Leap Day is also called Bachelor’s Day.
This scenario was the basis for the 2010 romantic comedy, Leap Year. Amy Adams plays the part of Anna, who is frustrated when another anniversary passes without a marriage proposal from her boyfriend. When she learns about the Irish tradition that allows women to pop the question on Leap Day, she rushes to Dublin to track down the boyfriend at a convention just in time to deliver a marriage proposal on February 29.
Although the tradition started in Ireland, it has slowly migrated throughout that region and around the world. Irish monks introduced the concept to Scotland, which passed a law in 1288 that allowed women to propose on Leap Day. If the man refused the proposal, he would have to pay a fine, ranging from a kiss, to a silk dress or a pair of gloves. In upper-class circles, the fine for a proposal denial was 12 pairs of gloves. Presumably, the gloves would hide the shame of not wearing an engagement ring.
In England, the day February 29 held no legal status, so people believed that traditional customs held no status on that day either. Hence, women were free to reverse the unfair custom that permitted only men to propose marriage.
Surveys have shown that both men and women are increasing open to the idea of role reversal when it comes to popping the question.
In 2015, a survey of 500 men by Glamour found that 70% of men would be “psyched” if their female partner popped the question.
Pinterest revealed in December 2018 that searches on its site for the phrase “women proposing to men” had skyrocketed 336% compared to 2017.
As reported by Yahoo Life, the UK-based website “Guides for Brides” found that 27% of women responding to a recent survey would like to, or have already, proposed to their male partner.
Their reasons for initiating the proposal included the following:
— 39% Not believing the notion that only men can pop the question
— 17% Finding it empowering
— 14% Being “fed up” of waiting for a proposal from their other half
The same survey noted that 73% of the male partners said they would accept the proposal, while 15% said they would refuse.
The reasons for turning down a proposal included the following:
— 28% Wanting to stick to tradition
— 26% Believing it’s the man’s responsibility to propose
— 14% Not being ready to get married
Credit: Image by BigStockPhoto.com.
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Great event. Thank you Huntsville ... See MoreSee Less
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💎 Step back in time with Elliott's Jewelers at our August Estate Jewelry Event! From August 22nd to 24th, explore exquisite, historical pieces from our collection. Preview our treasures here: www.elliottsjewelers.com/from-the-vault/#categories& and reserve your private viewing appointment between 9:30 am and 5:00 pm. Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of history! 👑 🕰️
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Picture this: an 'Anniversary Diamond' that sparkles with brilliance and the memories of years together. Why not consider upgrading the diamond in your wedding ring this upcoming milestone anniversary?
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Mark your milestone anniversary with a special upgrade from Elliott's Jewelers.💕 Can I make this ring for you?
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That is a very beautiful ring! What would something like this cost?
That’s a Beautiful ring WOW!
I no longer have anniversary’s, but it’s very pretty. Thanks for sharing. JS
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🌟 Uncover the history and beauty of estate jewelry at Elliott's Jewelers this August! Join us for our exclusive Estate Jewelry Event from August 22nd-24th. Dive into our vault here: www.elliottsjewelers.com/from-the-vault/#categories& and select pieces to view at your private appointment. Book now to secure a spot from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm each day and make history part of your style! 🕰️✨
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Make your old jewelry work for you! 🌟 At Elliott's Jewelers, every piece holds value. Trade in your unworn treasures for funds or upgrade to something new and sparkling. Refresh your collection today. See how far your jewelry can take you with us! 💍 Find out more: www.elliottsjewelers.com/sell-your-jewelry/
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Book an Appointment At Elliott’s Jewelers, you can be sure that you are getting the best possible appraisal for your jewelry. Our jewelry experts are trained and certified in jewelry appraisal, and ...1 CommentComment on Facebook
I have sent you pictures twice but never received a response.
🌟 Step into a world of timeless elegance with our August Estate Jewelry Event at Elliott's Jewelers! 📅 Mark your calendars: August 22nd-24th. Immerse yourself in the stories of exquisite pieces from our vault. To make this experience truly personal, we are scheduling exclusive appointments from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm each day.
Spaces are limited to ensure privacy and dedicated attention. 🕒 Book your appointment now and let us help you find a piece that not only enhances your collection but enriches your story.
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Gorgeous
💎 Discover timeless treasures at our August Estate Jewelry Event! Join us from August 22nd-24th at Elliott's Jewelers. Each piece has a unique story waiting to be part of yours.
Explore our exclusive collection here and book your private appointment from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm daily. Spaces are limited to ensure personalized attention. ✨ Find your next jewel with us! See more here: www.elliottsjewelers.com/from-the-vault/#categories&
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Very pretty.
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Beautiful 😍
Well done!
Thank you so much for your support & for such a beautiful piece!
Elliott's Jewelers wishes you and your family a Happy 4th of July! We will be closed on Thursday, July 4th. Elliott's Jewelers was thrilled to be part of Mitch and Lauren Fussell's love story. Do you have an Elliott's Jewelers story too? Let's celebrate by sharing it with us so we can continue making history together! Your stories inspire us every day. 🎆
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Wish I could click the “Love” and “Wow” Buttons at the same time.