Before Graduation, one event that any student looks forward to is PROM.
It is a night of gala wherein we should look our best and make the most memories out of it.
Although Hollywood may suggest a very lavish-looking Prom night, there's really no need to go broke for just a one-night event. A lot of pocket-friendly options are available, if you know where to look.
Fact: In a 2013 study, the average spending for Prom amounts to $1,139 which is a significant 5% increase from $1,078 on 2012.
Wow! That's a lot of money for just a one-night event, are you willing to shell out that much on yours?
Prom is special and there's always a way to make it fun and memorable while keeping your expenses at a minimum. Be wise, have fun and do the following:
1. Make that LIST.
It goes without saying that special things require special attention. And for a special event as Prom, missing out something would be a terrible mistake, or a total disaster, that can ruin what could be the most memorable night of your high school life.
And who would want that?
So before you go on a shopping spree, it's best to always have a LIST of what you need. Crash out those which you can just borrow from your cousin or mom and leave those things which you really, really need to buy.
Shop wise!
2. Call a friend and borrow.
Wearing 'new stuff' to rock your prom night is a myth.
Well yes, not entirely. But just because you opt to wear something borrowed doesn't make you look any less. Don't fall to the notion that you need to wear 'new' to look at your best.
More often than not, a little bit of creativity and personal touch of class is what it takes to dazzle people and be the queen or king of the night.
So start making phone calls and ask for a friend's help!
3. Coordinate with your date.
Unless you're an advocate of an individualistic lifestyle and would rather go to the prom by yourself, planning your overall expenses with your date is practical.
Rather than spend your money on paying the limo or the official photographer, why don't you divide the expenses with your date ahead of time?
You'll not only save some bucks. You'll also get the chance to hang out with that special person as you plan the event all along.
Now why don't you give him/her a call?
4. Rent
If borrowing doesn't work, you can always rent. Yes it's great to buy that dream gown and have it as a keepsake after, but if the point is to save money, then renting would be the most practical option.
You don't even need to go out under the heat of the sun and seek for onsite rental stores. All it takes is an internet connection and a few taps of your fingers to access a variety of prom outfits online.
Few of these online prom rental stores include:
5. Choose classic.
Why?
Because classic dresses like off shoulder cocktails and that classic dinner tux with black tie ensemble works well with almost all kinds of celebration like weddings, birthday parties, anniversaries, homecomings and many more.
If you really favor buying a dress or tux for prom, why not choose one which is applicable to other special events as well?
Besides, classics never go out of date so you're safe. And the Best thing is, it's cheaper than long gowns.
6. Do your own make-over.
Rather than pay someone $43 for a make-up and nail polish service (for girls), why not do it yourself? You save money and you learn at the same time.
Make-up for guys shouldn't be as delicate as girls, so for ladies who'd want to do great in beautifying themselves for the great night, practicing with your pals shouldn't hurt!
Call your friends and bring in your personal make-up kits. Follow make-up tips and do each others' hair and make-up.
You'll be surprised at how good you are if you only try.
7. Save money as early as now.
Considering all the 6 tips I've given so far, nothing still beats the power of saving money in advance.
As early as now, it's best to start saving money for the big day. You might've been planning on borrowing and renting your shoes and outfit and dividing your expenses with your date to save some bucks.
Still, extra money when time comes will work its wonders for unexpected situations. Besides, saving money will lessen your burden on rentals. If you've saved enough, you may not even need to get something from your pocket when the day comes.
Again, you can enjoy your prom night while spending less.
So party smart and look your best!