Even if you missed the 2010 rom-com starring Amy Adams, who hops a plane to Dublin to find her man and propose on February 29, chances are you’re still familiar with an old Irish tradition surrounding Leap Year.
Credit the 5th-century nun St. Bridget, who was tired of waiting on men who dragged their feet: legend goes that Bridget begged St. Patrick to help a sister out; he agreed, and for one day every four years, women were granted the chance to pop the question.
Whether or not there’s truth to this folklore, it’s believed the story is rooted in a time when English law did not recognize Leap Year. If the day had no legal status, all bets were off – meaning women could buck convention to get their guy.
In celebration of this power move, here are 4 additional wedding rules we’re giving you full permission to break.
Scratch the Saturday Wedding
Here at Patrick Properties, we’re firm believers that every day can be your perfect day. Maybe it’s because even Monday or Wednesday in Charleston can feel like a weekend. Celebrated hotels, James Beard Award-winning chefs, rich historic charm and miles of pristine beaches mean your guests will “leap” at the chance to make the trip – and then stay a while. Weekday nuptials kick off a vacation on a high note, and give you a long weekend to spend with your favorite people. So don’t limit yourself to a Saturday or Sunday date; we say yes to Thursday and Friday!
Reimagine the Rehearsal Dinner
Want to make the most of your time before the big day? First consider what you and your loved ones have the most fun doing! There’s no rule against trading a traditional RD for a more casual affair, from a Lowcountry oyster roast on the Ashley River to a cocktail lunch with a view of Downtown Charleston. If you’re host to many out-of-town guests, a morning meet & greet over brunch is great fuel before sending them on a historic walking tour or carriage ride.
Choose a Dessert You’re Really Sweet On
Personal style and fun, unique tastes are what make your guests feel connected to you as a couple, from your celebration playlist and décor right down to the dessert table. If your dream is an elaborate, five-tier wedding cake – go for it (our talented Patrick Properties pastry chef Jessica is up for the challenge)! And if you and your mr. are famous for your bananas foster or have a favorite late-night milkshake spot, let’s embrace it! Cut a sweet presentation cake; or better yet, bypass it altogether if cake’s not your style, and indulge your sweet tooth.
Find the Right Time to Toast
The wedding toast is one of the most poignant moments of a wedding, but not everyone wants to overshadow or compete with a carefully planned dinner. Invite guests into the dining room with an end-of-cocktail hour cheers, or raise a glass prior to cake cutting. Bubbles are always brilliant, but you can also add personality by toasting with a signature cocktail.
Planning your Charleston wedding? Just remember: traditions are worth repeating only if they are truly meaningful to you, and as Sister Bridget would agree – rules were made to be broken. Especially this Leap Year.