Marriage Proposal
Today when we think of a marriage proposal the image that springs to mind is probably the potential groom down on one knee holding out a diamond engagement ring. That's certainly a great way to do it, but there are many other proposal customs.
The bethrothal ring is relatively recent, however proposing has almost always involved the giving of some form of token - perhaps a glove, scarf or craft item such as a love spoon - by the
man. If the woman accepts and displays or wears the suitor's token then it's considered an acceptance of his intent. Whether any such gift counts as a marriage
proposal or simply a mark of affection varies between different societies.
Proposals can even take place in private or in public, they can be intimate or spectacular. Today of course we have mass media and public marriage proposals can be very public. Proposing on television might seem like a great idea but make sure you're not going to embarrass your partner. And if the proposal is rejected on live television it can be devastating; think hard before taking this route.
February 29th
Leap Year Proposals
In our Western patriarchal society it's normally been the man who does the proposing. However that changes on February 29th when custom has it that a woman can propose to a man.
The origin of this leap year reversal is unclear. Some suggest it's because February 29th - the "leapday" - was considered a special day outside the normal
customs and conventions of society. Whatever the reason, many women still take advantage of this custom today.