Emartinez
If I might make a suggestion, take a look at the Bersa line of firearms as well. I own and carry a Bersa Thunder 9 UC Pro almost all day long. While it is a bit heavier than I'd like, it is comfortable accurate and reliable. In over 500 rounds, I've NOT had a failure of any kind with a multitude of brands, weights, and types of ammunition. A friend of mine carries a Bersa .380 as his daily carry and he loves that one as well. If I remember right, I was quite a bit below $500 with an extra mag and two boxes of ammo.
I can and will attest to the Ruger line as well. I recently, 4 months ago, purchased a Ruger SR9 full size, after much arguing with myself between the full and the compact, and am overly delighted with my decision. The SR9 fits and feels like a 1911 would and is just as accurate in my hands as the 1911 would be. In over 250 rounds there has been no problems with the same varying variety of ammo the Bersa had.
Just me but, I'd also look into the S & W M & P series of full size and compacts. I was also arguing with myself about the Ruger and the Smith. And to be honest, if I had the funds, I'd buy a Smith M&P 9 just so I could have it and finish my self discussion.
Just try everything you and the wife can and go with what's right for ya'll