When you spend tons of money on a ring, you’re not going to want to propose in some ho-hum place like the Walmart parking lot or next to a dumpster. You’re going to want the scenery to match the mood and the mood needs to be a big, honking “YES!” So, got big dreams but a small wallet? Never fear. Here are three ways to set the scene you want and your lady deserves, without having to take out another loan.

1) If you want to propose at a castle…
I know a girl who’s fiance flew her all the way to Ireland where he proposed romantically atop of a castle. AMAZING, right? Well not every guy has that sort of cash. Understandable and no one faults you for it either. But that doesn’t mean your lady has to be without the castle she’s dreamed of since she was a little girl.  If you have some cash to spare, proposing near the Disney castle will suffice for many ladies. Another even more romantic option? Build it yourself like this guy below.

Photo courtesy of http://www.lovetheyesgirls.com

2) If you want to propose at a fancy restaurant…
Nothing says romance like a fancy, candlelit dinner at a restaurant that costs so much, your wallet is already crying before you hand the valet your keys. Sure, it’s a nice touch, but necessary? Not in the least. If you want to treat your lady to a fancy dinner just for her to set the mood, you have some options. You could decorate your apartment nice with candles and a fancy tablecloth and cook yourself (always an impressive move) or get the workers at your favorite (non-budget breaking)  restaurant to do something extra special for you two. She’ll definitely feel like she’s at a 5 star establishment during the moment when you go the extra mile to make it special.

3) If you want to propose in a completely outlandish way…
Sure, you want your lady to see fireworks the moment you propose, but does that mean you should go out and hire a bunch of people to set the night sky ablaze? Probably not. Look for local things that are happening in your area that you could piggy back off of. If you want fireworks, look for an event with fireworks and propose around then. Want her name written in the sky with a huge jet or blimp? Scale down to something nice like a sign on a building or random people holding it as you walk by. Just because its smaller doesn’t mean it’s not special. The effort is what matters.

What do you think: Do you need a lot of money to propose?

Nikki