After shelling out a small fortune for the perfect ring, it’s nice to spend a little less for the ultimate engagement moment. We’ve got 20 amazing proposal ideas that will impress your bride-to-be and won’t break the bank. Check out our favorites and find the one that matches her personality.
1 If she loves the beach, line the sand with candles and propose at the waterfront or pier as the sun is setting in the background.
2 If she’s a bookworm, have a book signed by her favorite author and write, “Will you marry me?” on the inside.
3 If she has an interest in art, surprise her with a trip to a local gallery and propose while she’s surrounded by her favorite paintings.
4 If she loves animals, adopt a kitten or a puppy and tie the ring around its collar.
5 If she’s into museums, ask for her hand on the steps leading up to the building or among the exhibits.
6 If she’s a movie buff, pop in a video (disguised as her favorite movie) with a surprise message taped on it.
7 If she loves the holidays, make her last gift a ring and a proposal.
8 If she’s a foodie, plan a nice dinner at her favorite restaurant and pop the question with dessert.
9 If she enjoys wine, take her to a local vineyard and propose among the vines (then open a bottle of bubbly to celebrate).
10 If she’s family-oriented, plan a surprise get-together with all of her loved ones and ask her with them present.
11 If she’s a teacher, plan a surprise visit to her classroom and have her students hold up a “will you marry me” sign.
12 If she’s a homebody, prepare a gourmet dinner at home and pop the question in your candlelit living room.
13 If she’s adventurous, plan a camping trip complete with a fireside engagement.
14 If she loves nature, take her on a hike on a local trail and ask her when you reach your destination.
15 If she’s into water sports, rent a canoe and ask her in the middle of your favorite lake or river.
16 If she loves parks, plan a picnic at her favorite outdoor hangout complete with candles, gourmet food and a bottle of champagne for a post-engagement toast.
17 If she enjoys surprises, set up a scavenger hunt with the final destination leading her to you at one of your favorite spots (a bench, a beach, a restaurant, or so on).
18 If she loves the news, place a small ad in the local paper for her to find when she’s reading the Sunday edition.
19 If she likes to sleep in, wake up early, cook her breakfast in bed and put the ring on the tray.
20 If she’s sentimental, create a scrapbook with pictures of your time together and write, “Will you marry me?” on the last page with a place to add your engagement picture.
-- Tia Albright
http://weddings.weddingchannel.com/wedding-planning-ideas/groom-advice-tips/articles/Proposal-Ideas-Under-Fifty-Dollars.aspx