Money and Dating: Coupons, When to Pay, and Good Manners

There's a lot of talk on the Internet about money when it involves dating, and rightly so. We're in a recession, so people are more frugal when it comes to spending money - but we still want to be social. But what does this mean exactly? Is it okay to use a coupon on a date? Can you forgo dinner and just grab a drink or coffee? Is it ok to split the bill on a first date? When should you offer to pay?

Following are some answers to these simple questions, along with guidelines for maximizing your dating experience despite your current cash flow:

Coupons:

Don't pull out a Groupon on the first date. While I'm all about bargains, it's in poor taste to use a two-for-one coupon on a first date. If you'd rather not spend much money, ask to go for a walk or for a cup of coffee. I'm not against coupons while dating, but I think it's a good idea to wait until you're a few dates in before you do.

Dinner or something cheaper?

It's not impressive to ask a woman out for an expensive dinner on the first date, so I don't recommend doing this. First, she doesn't know you so she's likely not willing to commit that much time up front unless you've had some great conversations in advance. Take the safe route for your date and your pocketbook - ask her out for a drink instead. If you hit it off, then try dinner.

If you've had several dates and find yourself a little strapped for cash, it's a good time to come up with some creative alternatives to the dinner and drinks routine. Check your local paper for free events around town, suggest a bike ride and picnic, or plan a romantic dinner prepared by you! There are plenty of inexpensive alternatives.

About the bill:

You've just finished your meal and the check arrives. You don't reach for it, and neither does she. This can be awkward. My advice? Whoever does the asking does the paying. If she asked you out but refuses to grab the check, offer to split the bill. If you asked her out, put down your credit card. If you find yourself paying every time, or not getting a "thank you" for when you do, politely ask her if she will buy the next time around. And please don't use the "I left my wallet at home" excuse. Make sure you come prepared to every date with a little cash and a credit or debit card, just in case. Relationships should be reciprocal.