One of the most important topics to single young professionals: Dating.

My close friend, Rachel, and I always joke about how people must think we're a couple. We travel, attend musicals at the Overture Center and dine out together. She's my guest at work functions, social gatherings and even family celebrations. Even though she and I have a great time together, I think we both look forward to the day when we each find great guy to share our lives with. It was fine having your best friend tag along with you when you were in high school, but 10 years later it's starting to get a little embarrassing for the both of us.

So how do we start looking for our perfect match? I, like many other 20-somethings, am sick of the bar scene. I would much rather stay home, sipping a glass of wine with friends and family after a long week of work. And the guy that I'm looking for would be into the same thing. So that leaves me at home, and my ideal guy at home, with no bridge to meet each other.

Some of you may suggest the perfect solution — online dating. I'm just not interested in going that route quite yet. Maybe in a few more years it's something I'd consider, but for now I'd like to meet a guy the traditional way — we'll notice each other across the room, lock eyes and fall instantly in love.

So, I return to my initial question: How are young professionals supposed to meet potentials partners?

I'm sure there are many single guys and gals out there in the same boat, so this is a serious discussion to be had. If we want to keep young professionals in Madison, we need to keep them satisfied and content, which includes a fulfilling relationship for most people. The more we can help young professionals meet someone compatible and eventually start a family in the area, the better success we'll have at keeping people here long term.

For myself, I know there's a real possibility that I'd move to Chicago at age 30 if I'm single than if I'm in a relationship at that time. And if by some miracle I was married with kids by that age, the chances would be even slimmer.

So in the light of retaining the area's young talent, I again pose the question: What is the best way for young professionals to get out and meet potential mates without hitting up the bar scene?