All these amazing proposal videos sometimes make me wonder just how much some of these guys spent on their proposals. I’m not giving them a hard time, don’t get me wrong. I think if you have the means, you should use them. But what about the people who may not have funds to make their proposal positively crazy?

Here are 4 budget-friendly, yet creative proposal ideas that can be amazing, over-the-top, and yet not put a gigantic hole in your pocket.

1. Take me to the zoo. I know, I know. Those of you who are endearing snow right now are giving me a look. But when it warms up, what better way to celebrate than go to your local zoo? I don’t care what anyone says. It makes girls happy (unless they have views on it, in which case you better skip to number 2). Buy the tickets, which usually aren’t ridiculously priced unless you’re in San Diego or something, and when approached by a photographer or in the area to get a photo done, use your timing to drop to one knee. The photographer can capture the surprise, and you’ll only be spending around $20 on a picture rather than a lot more on a professional photographer to follow you around. Or, even better, have a friend staged somewhere near your girl’s favorite animal, ready to jump out and snap a shot when you propose.

2. Plan a flash mob. This is one trend that is popular, and not expensive. You don’t have to go crazily over-the-top with this. Get some friends and family together, set up a boom box, and let them go to work with it. You can come upon the flash mob with maybe a less-known friend of yours, and then have the family and friends appear gradually. By the time she knows what’s going on, you could join in the fun and propose!

3. Family dinner/surprise party. This is extra special if your other half doesn’t get to see her family all that much. Plan a huge get together with both families for your big moment. If you make it a pot-luck/barbecue type get-together, you can ask everyone to bring something. Also, if it’s not a surprise, she may suspect even less until the big moment!

4. Just the two of you. There is nothing wrong, nor demeaning, of keeping the proposal cozy. Have a night in with your favorite movie and popcorn, or let her pick that chick-flick she’s been dying to watch. Make it special, intimate, and all about your relationship. Feel the moment out, and just remember everyone will ask how it was done, so try to keep it PG!

Emily

Photo Credit: newportaquarium.com