With the national divorce rate steadily declining, maybe the new way is better. Statistics show people are dating longer and marrying later. Stowell said his clients are usually in their late 30s, if not older. He said maturity definitely helps a person find what they're looking for.
"I think they have a little more knowledge of who they are, and once you know who you are, it's a lot easier to find out who would be good for you," said Stowell.
Another reason the divorce rate is down could be marriage counseling. Experts said psychological services are more available and more acceptable then in the past.
"People seem to really feel confidant that it's something that's going to help, and they see it almost as a must try before they dissolve a marriage," said psychologist Tanya Gesek.
But, Gesek warns not to take the numbers at face value. She said the marriage rate is down as well. Studies show many couples are choosing to live together long-term rather than marry.
Whether or not you tie the knot, there is one common factor that Stowell said can't be made into a statistic.
"I believe love is still very, very strong and very important," he said.
Divorce rates are now the lowest they've been since the 1970s.
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