1.Know your beloved well and anticipate his response. Will he be swept away by this romantic gesture? Or could he feel threatened by a woman s proposing marriage? (If so, you may want to reconsider.)

2.Set the stage. Pick his favorite place - whether you consider it romantic or not - to pop the question. This might be a secluded camping site, a fancy restaurant, a golf course at sunset ... or even a sports bar. Let your love s taste be your guide.

3.Keep your plans flexible. You may have an evening of French cuisine and fine wine in mind; he may be in the mood for burgers and beer. Unless your plans involve other people or events, go with the flow.

4.Make a splash if your beloved appreciates the theatrical. Put your question up in lights at a ballgame, or bring in a soloist to croon over pasta.

5. Keep the occasion subtle if your honey tends to like things more subdued. Pop the question over dessert or during a private game of pool.

6.Bring or plan an engagement gift. Sure, you could get him a ring, but a puppy with a note tied around its neck might be a better choice. Or a motorcycle. Something that will last for a long time.

7.Give him some time to be surprised and tongue-tied. Remember, even though he loves you for the unconventional woman you are, he probably won t see this one coming.