Surrey-based wedding expert reveals how to prep the perfect leap year proposal!

For those non-traditional ladies out there who haven’t the patience to wait for their man to drop down on one knee let me ask you what’s stopping you from doing it yourself? 2024 is a leap year ladies, if there is any excuse to go out there and get your man then this is it.  Originating in Ireland, the tradition states that on February 29th, the roles are reversed so a woman can propose to a man (this can of course be done at any stage of the year). Whether you feel empowered by taking the lead or want to surprise your partner and do something spontaneous, here are three top tips from Surrey's Bluebird Bride Academy if you’re planning a leap-year proposal:

Know your partner! If you know that big elaborate, public displays of affection are not his thing then plan wisely. Some of the most beautiful proposals are ones without an audience.  Think of somewhere special you may have had one of your first dates, or perhaps a place that is meaningful to him, alternatively, some of the loveliest proposals I have known have been at home over dinner. Is he a family man, could you gather some of his friends or family to be a part of it? With any luck you will only have to do this once in your life so my best advice is to make it meaningful and personal to you both.

You need something to propose with! I love the idea of proposing to him but handing him a gift, like a watch and then going off somewhere special to choose yours rings together (which means you get a say in choosing yours too win/win!). You don’t have to place a ring on his finger to be engaged, just a symbol of your engagement and something in the moment is special enough to mark this momentous occasion.

Practice! This may sound silly but you can bet the guys do this before proposing too! When you love someone so much it can be difficult to express yourself and know what to say when in the moment, especially if nerves are getting the better of you. Write your thoughts down, practice when no one is looking and speak from your heart.

To learn more about all things weddings and engagement, check out www.bluebirdcreative.co.uk