The ring didn't mean a thing

While swimming in a sea of Valentine's Day story pitches, I found the results of a recent marriage proposal survey conducted by Men's Health and TheKnot.com.

Among the findings?

One in 4 brides wished their proposal was more romantic, more original and personal or more private.

Ouch.

I've watched some women get engaged and then complain about how their guy proposed. I think the tendency is a little tacky, especially when they're complaining in the company of female friends desperate to get engaged.

If you're a male reader -- and you're not too embarrassed to visit The Knot -- check out this list of 50 romantic ways to propose.