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3 On Your Side: Using Coupons On A First Date

By Jim Donovan

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Is your budget taking a bite out of your dating life? There's no rule that says you have to shell out big bucks to impress a potential love interest.

In fact 3 On Your Side has found that frugal dating is on the rise and more people are using coupons to cut down on dating costs.

The dinner, the drinks, maybe a movie or a show; the price tag for a night out sure can add up quickly. But wooing doesn't need to be a budget buster.

Let's take a look at some numbers from a recent survey.

First up, what percentage of people surveyed do you think said they've used a coupon on a first date?

The answer is 26 percent, which is up 8 percent from just last year.

If you think being thrifty is a turnoff? The numbers are against you.

In fact 26 percent of people said they would have a positive reaction if their date used a coupon and 73 percent of those surveyed said it just might lead to a second date.

Only 12 percent said no there would be no second date if a coupon was used on the first outing. 3 percent would tell their date his or her thriftiness was offensive.

1 percent said they'd end the date right then and there. I wonder if they will take their desert to-go?

If you're cashing in on a deal on a date, the experts warn not to skimp on the tip. Cheating a server out of his or her fair share is not the way to impress your company.

No matter the deal, make plans based on what you can afford and be honest. If you're using a coupon, don't try to hide it. If your date has a problem with your thriftiness, maybe he or she isn't the right one for you.

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