While deciding to propose marks the first half of the journey toward marriage, deciding how to pop the question marks the other. While the traditional surprise on one-knee approach is still classic, some hopeful suitors opt for more original scenarios. This article examines a few creative, yet romantic proposal ideas.

One suggestion from Loving You, www.lovingyou.com, is to take a series of photos of single letters, each photo showing one letter, from signs from around town which will spell out 'Will you marry me?' Then take a photo of you on one knee holding the ring. Put them in the proper order and tell your mate to look through them. When she reaches the final photo she'll put them aside and see you in the exact same pose. This will not only strike her as completely original and romantic, but provide a memento for her to hang on to. Besides, taking the time to hunt down each letter will be a sure-fire way to show her you really care.

Romance Stuck, www.romancestuck.com, suggests leading your partner on a scavenger hunt. Perhaps you can leave a trail of clues and puzzles for her to solve, leading her from one place to another. Another option is to buy a ball of string and tie the beginning of the string on your front door knob. Put a sign at the beginning telling her to follow the string. Trail the string all over your home, threading it over and under furniture, etc. With any luck, she'll find you on one knee at the end of her quest.

Another creative proposal idea is to create a sign asking the big question and stash it somewhere secluded. Suggest you two take a hike. When you come upon the sign, ask her the big question. This might work particularly well if you are both scuba certified. You can write your message on a water-proof surface and place it somewhere safe, perhaps tied around a dock's post. Be sure to come across it during your dive the next morning.

For a less elaborate, but still somewhat romantic or creative approach, consider giving her a batch of hand-picked wildflowers with the ring tied to them. She will not only appreciate the effort you've made to gather the flowers, but be able to hang dry the flowers as a keepsake. Perhaps you can surprise her at work or in a public place, catching her completely off guard. Finally, consider posting a flyer or two in your favorite hang outs, then be certain to visit them with ring in pocket.

However one chooses to propose, it is important to remember that the most romantic gesture of all comes in the act of proposing, not the means by which you deliver the question. Sometimes simple and sincere is the way to go.