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It's never too early to prepare for Prom

Even though Prom isn't until April 6, getting a few things together in preparation can't hurt.

COLUMN
By MIKAYLA FRANKLIN
fhspress.com Co-Editor-in-Chief
Posted February 26, 2013

Prom is arguably the most exciting event of the school year for upperclassmen, and although it's over a month away, it's not too early to start getting ready for the big night. With limos to view, dresses to try on, tuxes to rent, and much more, the Prom to-do list is long and extensive. So here's a list of important Prom to-do's to help you get organized:

• Buying the Tickets—It's never too early to get your Prom tickets in order. As soon as they go on sale, it's a good idea to get them while the lines are short.
• Buying the Dress—The dress is usually the most important thing to a girl on Prom night, second only to their special someone or group of friends. It's essential that you look for this early. You don't want to end up having to settle for an overpriced dress that doesn't fit perfectly. You deserve the best you can find, hopefully for an affordable price.
• Renting the Tux—Getting the outfit together early isn't just something for girls to take care of. Prom season makes many people go a bit crazy, and you might find that the perfect tux for you is disappearing from store shelves fast. You may already own a nice tuxedo, but if the date of Prom is approaching fast and you don't have the money to make the full investment, renting is definitely the way to go.
• Working the Heels—Believe it or not, the age-old art of walking in six-inch high heels isn't something that always comes naturally. Though it may sound a little silly, it's a good idea to practice walking around in your heels before Prom. No one wants to end up waddling awkwardly or falling on their face at any time during the night.
• Finding the Transportation—Odds are, Prom night won't be very exciting if you don't have a way to get there! This is definitely something that I'd recommend getting a good month or so ahead of time. Whether you need family to free-up their schedule to get you there, or find the perfect limo, the whole transportation issue is one that needs to be taken care of early. *Tip: A party bus may be a cheaper way to go if you are trying to transport a lot of people at a slightly lower price than a limo.
• Making the Reservations—Whether you're going with the simplicity of Denny's or the fanciness of a five-star restaurant, it's important to make sure that there will be seats available for you and your date/friends. Going to dinner and being crowded out of your table is a complete bummer. The same goes for makeup and hair appointments. There doesn't need to be last minute plans or long lines to wait in.
• Saving the Money—With so many things to do before Prom night arrives, money is something that you can't do without. Even if you have a ton of coupons and are doing your hair and makeup at home to cut costs, it's nice to have a little bit of cash on hand just in case. With pictures to take and after parties to go to, it's a good idea to have a little bit of money saved.
• Being Safe—A chaperoned Prom is a fairly safe environment. However, some after parties aren't usually the same. No one can force you to make certain decisions, but please, never get into a car with someone who's been drinking. Instead, get a ride from a friend or call a taxi to get home.
• Having Fun—Prom is a time for dancing, socializing, laughing, and so much more. Don't let stress eat away at you and keep you from having the time of your life!
Photo credits: EQUI file photos from 2009, 2010, and 2012. Research assistance by G'Ajane Davis. "Making the Reservations" photo of Andre Dawson by Vadim Lubko.

mikayla.franklin@fhspress.com

FOOTHILL HIGH SCHOOL fhspress.com SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA