By Dalia Colon

Some people shop for things: a flat-screen TV, Jimmy Choos. Others shop for experiences: an afternoon of parasailing, a day of thrills at Universal Orlando. If you're in love and looking to to a ring on it, then it's time to shop for one of the most important experiences of your life: the perfect marriage proposal.

Mind you, my husband proposed to me in the kitchen of his condo on an otherwise-uneventful Sunday evening. And to me, the experience was perfect. Regardless of how you pop the question, once your beloved sees the bling, you'll be a hero. So don't stress too much.

That said, if you'd like to turn your Florida vacation into happily ever after, here are three weeding proposal ideas for every budget.

The Beach

Pick a beach, any beach. Florida's coast provides the perfect backdrop for an inexpensive-yet-breathtaking wedding proposal. Pop the question over a sunset picnic. Write WIll you marry me? in the sand. Drop to one knee during a moonlit stroll. Hide the ring in a conch shell. You'll think of something.

As for which beach you choose, that's your call. You'll probably want some privacy, so if you choose a busier beach like Clearwater or Jacksonville, then avoid peak hours. If you want prestige, choose Siesta Key in Sarasota or Cape Florida State Park in Key Biscayne. Both ranked in Dr. Beach's top 10 list this year.

A Restaurant

So many classy options here! Have the staff of Bern's Steakhouse in Tampa slip the ring onto her dessert as you snuggle up in the Dessert Room. Keep things casual yet romantic by popping the question at Miami's Casa Tua. In Jacksonville, III Forks Steak & Seafood combines a luxurious setting with an attentive wait staff for a night to remember.

Walt Disney World

A few years ago, I was fortunate to attend the wedding of then-Jacksonville Jaguars linebacker Mike Peterson to St. Petersburg native Chantal Day. It was a Disney affair with all the trimmings, including a fireworks display in the couple's honor.

It's no surprise that Disney's proposal packages are equally spectacular. The staff can help you dream up the perfect way to pop the question, from a private meal inside Cinderella Castle to a voyage on Disney's private yacht.

For even more Florida marriage proposal ideas, click here.

PLACES TO REMEMBER