Going back to the issue of the number of dates, here is a well known story about the famous posek, Rabbi Moshe Bick, who noticed an increase in family discord of newlyweds that led to divorce. He let it be known that he strongly suggested that when a boy and girl date in pursuit of marriage that they date at least eight times to become more acquainted with each other and thus minimize “surprises” after marriage. When this came to the ears of the Holy Admor of Satmar, he sharply disagreed, saying, “‘Katzti v’chayai mipnei bnos CHES,” I am disgusted with meeting girls EIGHT times.” Upon hearing this, Rabbi Bick responded to the Rebbe, that although he is much subservient to him, nevertheless, the Rebbe is honoured with “sidur kidushin” while Rabbi Bick is honoured with “sidur gitin.” Being exposed to the issues involved, he asked the Rebbe to acquiesce to his opinion. The Rebbe accepted this.
(see: http://www.shemayisrael.com/parsha/fleisher/archives/toldos69.htm)