The cultural connection Love, the universal language, is constantly open to interpretation... and that means lots of different celebrations!

The perfect proposal: The tradition of `leap year` proposals can be traced back to Ireland. According to folklore, Saint Patrick heard that mutiny had broken out in the nunnery when some of the ladies claimed the right to `pop` the question. To keep the peace, he granted them this right every seven years. Saint Bridget was unhappy with his offer and bargained him down to four instead. This is not the only Irish custom that has endured; some couples still enact the tradition of `marriage by capture` where the bride tries to escape and the groom captures her.

The Irish wedding ring: The traditional `Claddagh` ring depicts two hands holding a heart, which in turn has a crown resting on it. The hands represent friendship while the heart symbolises love. The crown ties the two together as an indication that friendship and love will reign forever. This pattern is often used on other wedding paraphernalia like cake toppers, candles and goblets.

Flower power: If you see a sprig of rosemary added to the flower arrangements, it`s there in remembrance of a family member. Ivy, on the other hand, represents fidelity.

Having your cake: In keeping with true Irish spirit, wedding cakes are laced with brandy or bourbon, (Yum...) and laden with raisins, almonds, cherries and spice. This richness symbolises wealth and prosperity, and the top layer is usually saved until the christening of the couple`s first child.

The big day: Many Irish couples choose one of the Irish fire festivals as their Big Day. The first of these, `Imbolc`, is celebrated on 1 February, and signifies the first stirring of the Earth from its icy sleep. `Beltane`, a celebration which reflects the return of life and fertility to the world, takes place on 1 May, while `Lugnassah`, celebrated on 1 August, coincides with the beginning of the harvest.

Article source: LifeWorld