by Stacey A. Smith

Created on: August 17, 2010

In this day and age of teeny-bopper soaps like Gossip Girl and the re-vamped 90210, the pressure is on for high school students to glitz and glamor it up for prom. But you can have a wonderful and magical night without the expensive price tag.

Prom is a rite of passage that most high school kids have dreamed about attending. It has been the basis for movies (see Pretty in Pink) and the subject of Pop Culture (Halle Berry was prom queen!).But the reality is that this ritual is all about having fun with your date, dancing and making memories  with your friends.

Unfortunately, over the years, the focus has passed from the actual Prom to an emphasis on the fuss of  the before and after. The preparation of the hair, dress, tuxedo, corsage, transportation, dinner and possible after-party has over-taken what the day is all about and made it into this over-hyped glitzy ordeal.  Prom was made to be about the pictures with your friends and memories of high school as a final send-up to your school career.

Starting with the corsage, there is a chance to make things much more unique. A simple flower from the garden for his tuxedo and some flowers with baby's breath secured with elastic on her wrist can be simple, elegant and still as beautiful as something professionally prepared.

 Both the dress and tuxedo can be a great opportunity to set a fun tone for the night. Skipping the big department store and scouring second hand shops is a fun and innovative idea. You can find some really great vintage dresses and tuxedo's that may need little or no altering. Another option would be to raid your mother's or father's closet for some of their old 70's and 80's garb. There can be a variety fantastic gems found right in your own house. With a little altering, you can make it a one of a kid original. Be sure to get one of your parents involved and enjoy hearing stories of their own prom nights. 

 Transportation is a key element to Prom night. Most couples team up and get a limousine for the night. By splitting the cost, it can be relatively inexpensive. If you are looking for a less cookie-cutter experience, see about borrowing a Dad's or a Grandparents vintage car. My date borrowed his Uncle's 1970 Monte Carlo and we got the most unique Prom pictures standing in front of that car. Plus, we really made an entrance in a car so unique.

 Prom night should be magical and fun, but shouldn't break the bank. Following a few cost cutting measures can not only save money but enhance the uniqueness of the experience.  

Learn more about this author, Stacey A. Smith.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.