DateSpacers, you’ve heard us discuss the economy a few times. I’m here to add one more thought during these trying times: when it comes to dating and finding the right person, it’s not the time to scrimp.

A few years ago, on my second date, my future wife and I went out to an Italian restaurant. The check came and I was ready to tip my customary “twice the tax.” Before I did so, however, I asked her what she usually tips, just to get the 411. Mind you, she used to waitress in college, so she’s quite sensitive to matters concerning what members of the service industry makes. Without batting an eye, she said, “Twenty percent.”

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It wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows throughout my relationship before getting hitched. I’ve made a bunch of mistakes too. In the interest of preventing the same in your romantic dealings, here’s something I learned the hard way.

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Holy Matrimony, Batman! One of our own staffers recently tied the knot. So we decided he needed to give us his take on how he found himself with a ring on his finger. Here’s the first of what we hope are many with advice on how he got to where he is.

Full disclosure: I’ve been married for all of two months now. And I’ve got the secret to dating success. Actually, it’s one of many of the tips that got me where I am (otherwise, I wouldn’t have another column after this one!). But it’s one of the more important things you’ll hear me suggest:

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