Is the economy hurting your love life?

It is sad when the economy is hurting the dating scene, and I truly think it is. Raven already mentioned how long-distance couples are seeing each other less because of gas prices, and now we're looking for cheaper dates too.

My boyfriend and I are definitely feeling the pinch on our wallets when it comes to going out. Trips to Atlanta are more infrequent and carefully considered and planned. We used to have lunch together at a restaurant once a week on a regular basis, and that's all but stopped completely. Even simple things, like going out and shooting some pool, have been scaled back. With rising gas prices and rising — well — everything else, we just can't afford to do these things at the same frequency anymore.

As a result, we look for cheap things to do with our time. This usually includes renting movies, cooking dinner for each other and going to the pool. Still fun, but definitely more thrifty.

Has the economy affected how you plan your dates? Have you changed plans in order to save money? What are some ways you save money when dating?

Do you think this affects you more if you are single? Obviously, those who are in a relationship already have a date, they just need something cheap to do. Singles often spend money to get a date (in a non-prostitute sort of way, get your head out of the gutter), such as going out to a bar and buying drinks or generally being social and out in public.