Prom Advice: What to Expect
It's the moment you've been waiting for…the big day is finally here! So,
what happens next? Here's what you can expect for prom day.
The Day of Prom
The day of prom can be a fun ride, so hang on and enjoy! You have done plenty of planning, and your checklist is getting smaller by the minute. By now you might have pre-packed your prom bag or clutch with your essentials, like prom tickets, keys, and anything else you have deemed necessary. Will you be doing your pre-prom prep at home or at your bestie's house? Maybe your prom squad will be doing hair, makeup, and nails at a salon. Either way, be sure to arrive at any scheduled appointments early to avoid feeling rushed. Need more tips for prom preparation? Check out the Preparing for Prom section of this Prom Guide that includes how-to tips and advice on professional versus DIY hair, nails, and makeup.
Whether going solo or with your besties, it is perfectly acceptable to treat yourself to flowers. Choose a wrist, shoulder, or ring corsage in a color that matches or complements your prom dress for a pulled-together look. If receiving flowers from a date, you will want to reciprocate with a boutonniere or corsage. The presentation of corsage and boutonniere usually takes place when you meet up with your date or prom squad for pictures, and can take anywhere from 10 minutes to an hour depending upon family, friends, or the professional photographer.
The majority of prom goers need time for pre-prom pictures. Groups will often get together at home, a friend's home, a designated venue or all of the above to capture the start of this long-awaited event. Whether indoors or outdoors, allow time for selfies and photo sessions with family and friends before prom. Remember a photo session with a professional photographer may take a little longer. It's ok to make a huge deal out of your big day. Once you've arrived at the prom venue, you may be directed to the designated professional photo area. Some prom tickets include the price of a picture packet, but be aware that sometimes there is an extra charge. Let's face it! This is a momentous occasion, so capture every minute and enjoy it to the fullest!
Your Ride to Prom
Make sure that you have a safe ride to and from prom that is approved by your parents or guardians. If your prom squad rented a limo, party bus, or a special car, confirm your reservation with the service well before the big night. Keep in mind that life happens: inclement weather, heavy traffic, etc. Just in case, always plan on the arrival time to be a bit off, whether it be early or even a few minutes late. Try not to panic, as the driver knows this is an important night and will make every effort to ensure a smooth journey for all concerned. You have probably organized the order in which you are picked up, or you might have chosen to all meet in one place to make it easier for the driver and cut down on cost. Either way, sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.
Carpooling is a great way to save money. Since teenage driving rules vary by region, keep in mind any restrictions. For example, drivers with learner's permits typically can't have minor-aged passengers in the car, which would mean that some friends might not be able to be the driver on prom night. Once the driver and vehicle are chosen for your prom travels, it's always a good idea to have a backup driver in case of any unplanned mishaps. A friend might have a change of heart and skip out on prom, there might be car troubles, or you might decide that the driver is unreliable and feel uncomfortable riding with him or her. Having a backup driver or a trusted adult on speed dial shows responsibility while confidently preparing you for any potential change of plans.
Arriving at Prom
The prom theme has been set and the venue for prom has been decorated to make this special night fun and fabulous. There are sure to be plenty of opportunities for photos and selfies, so do a quick hair and makeup check for that ultra-fab look before you arrive. Your entrance may be as simple as walking into the school gym decorated with balloons and lights, or as lavish as being announced as you walk down a winding staircase at a fancy venue. Take it all in and have fun: This is your night!
Prom goers are likely to be met at the door by chaperones checking for tickets and dress code violations, as well as handing out programs and leading you toward a coat check. Most venues have tables that seat 8 to 10 people. You and your date might choose a table with other couples, or a group of single friends might sit together. As with any event, be aware of your surroundings, take note of all emergency exits, and locate the restrooms (just in case). Once you enter, additional chaperones, parents, and school staff, are usually stationed randomly throughout the venue. Please keep in mind, they are not there to rain on your parade or cramp your style. Their presence is for your protection and to ensure that everyone has the ultimate prom experience
Your prom will most likely have a live band or a DJ. Either way, the music will be loud, the lights will be low, and the energy will be high. Let the music flow through you, hit the dance floor, and show off your moves, or socialize, take in the fun, and check out all that the event has to offer. At some time during the night, your school's prom queen and prom king will be announced and, after the coronation, they will have their honorary dance before opening the floor back up for everyone.
After the Prom
After proms are almost as big a deal as prom. Now that the formal prom is done, are you itching to ditch the formal wear? Depending upon where you plan to go for your after prom activity, you might want to have a bag with comfy clothes or a cute casual dress to change into from your prom dress. A planned get-together at an all-night diner or a sleepover at a friend's house could be on your agenda. Most schools organize an after prom at a designated venue with entertainment like bounce houses, popcorn machines, photo booths, and lots of music. For more after prom advice with tips for planning or preparing for activities, check out the After Prom section of the Prom Guide! Regardless of where your after prom plans take you, have fun!
You have found the perfect prom dress, matched the prom accessories, and the tux has been rented. You've chosen the ideal hairstyle, as well as a fabulous prom makeup look, to best suit you for those coveted glamour shots and awesome selfies. If you're feeling a little unsure about what to expect at prom and how the night will go down, keep these tips in mind, relax, and get ready for an amazing prom experience filled with awesome memories! Speaking of memories, don't forget to preserve them so you can always look back on this special night! Check out the Memories section of the Prom Guide for tips.
