High school prom—the glitz, the glam, and the thrill of a night that’s one of the peak experiences of teenage life. Prom represents closure of one chapter and a grand beginning to another. For your teenager, it’s a big deal, and as a parent, you’re keen for them to have a prom worth remembering. With that in mind, test out these tips to make sure the night is nothing short of spectacular.
Budgeting Tips and Tricks
Prom can be incredibly pricey, and costs seem to escalate faster than you can say “tuxedo rental.” The first step in planning a memorable prom night for your teen is setting a realistic budget.
Start by outlining all potential expenses, from attire and tickets to transportation and flowers. Then, look for smart ways to save. Encourage your teen to consider borrowing a dress or suit from a friend or sibling or shopping during sale seasons. Also, think about the peripheral costs, such as after-parties or professional pictures, and decide whether they’re essential or not.
Dress and Suit Shopping
When it comes to prom wear, the quest for the perfect dress or suit is a rite of passage in itself. Engage with your teen early in the process. Study the top 2024 prom trends together and see if one resonates with your teen. You might also want to look online or go window shopping to get a sense of prices and styles. Once your teen has narrowed down their choices, make an appointment for them to try on the outfits they have in mind.
And don’t forget about accessories—shoes, jewelry, and hair accessories can make or break an outfit. Encourage your teen to get creative and have fun with their look while staying true to their personal style.
Grooming and Beauty Preparation
Don’t wait until the last minute to think about grooming and beauty for prom night. The lead-up to prom is the perfect time for teens to focus on self-care. Encourage your teen to establish a skincare routine and decide on a hairstyle that complements their look and is easy to manage throughout the evening. Consider scheduling a professional makeup appointment or booking a salon visit for hairstyling. Alternatively, you can bond with your teen by trying out different makeup looks or hairstyles at home.
Transportation and Safety
Prom night is a time for celebration, but it’s also essential to prioritize safety. Make sure your teen has a safe and reliable mode of transportation to and from the event. Whether you hire a limo or designate a responsible driver in your family, having a plan in place will give you peace of mind. Additionally, educate your teen about the dangers of underage drinking and remind them to make responsible decisions.
Kids grow up so fast, and while there’s no stopping time, there are moments where you have the power to influence the narrative as their parent. Follow these pointers, and you can plan a memorable prom night for your teen.