Helpful tips on going to this years Prom
Whether this is your first year or last year going to the Prom make it a night to remember with these simple tips.
- Don't miss out on the Prom because you don't have a date. In today's world it is perfectly acceptable to go solo or with a group of friends. This takes the pressure off of trying to find a date and the disappointment of not attending.
- Asking someone to the Prom can be a stressful situation. Nobody likes to be turned down. But if you don't ask you won't know. Make sure you ask the person in private. You may want to say, "Karen, would you like to go to the prom with me?" Wait for the response. Was that a yes? Great! If it's a no thank you, don't hang your head and walk away. A polite response should be, "Okay, thank you." Walk away proud and avoid bad mouthing the person who said no and think about another person you may want to invite or go with a group of friends.
Remember:
Once you accept an invitation you are committed to going. It's not
okay to accept an invitation and then cancel because you got a better
offer.
- What to Wear? Getting dressed up is part of the experience. Is your prom semi-formal or formal? Most proms are formal and you will want to set the tone of elegance and sophistication. For the gentlemen formal is a black tuxedo, white tuxedo shirt and bow tie. For the lady, a cocktail dress, formal gown or dressy pant suit is acceptable.
- Who pays? If you are going with a group, usually everyone splits the expenses. The person who extended the offer is no longer responsible for picking up the entire tab. Most couples or groups split the expenses.
- Now is the time to make plans. Don't wait until the last minute and be surprised you can't make a reservation because everything is booked. Now is the time to reserve the restaurant and limo, and call the florist. Speak with your date or friends to determine the costs and who is responsible for paying for what. You wouldn't want to be at dinner and not have enough money to pay for your food or to tip the waiter.
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Corsages, boutonniere and wristlet's The most important tip is the color of the flower. It should not clash with your prom dates dress. Rely on your florist to suggest color and type of flower. A good idea is to ask the florist the proper way to pin on a corsage.
- Dining manners Make sure your dining manners match your look. People in the restaurant are already looking at you and commenting on how nice you look. Don't ruin a fun night by calling attention to your poor table manners. Know how much to tip. It is usually 10%, 15% of the bill and if you have exceptional service 20%.
- Dancing If you are bringing a date, dance with him/her on the first song. Then if you want to dance up a storm with other friends do so, but with discretion. Don't ignore your date and leave them standing around wondering what happened to you.
- After Parties After the prom is over there are usually after parties. This is when it is important to follow the guidelines you have come to know and are expected to follow. Do not drink and drive, respect curfews and don't be afraid to leave early if there is a situation or behavior you don't feel comfortable with. Call a taxi or your parents if you need a ride home.
- A Big Thank You! It is important to thank your date or group of friends for a great time. Always thank the host of the after party for inviting you and any service staff that was hired during this time. Most of all, don't forget to thank your parents for helping to make your prom night a memorable time and a night to remember!
Please visit our website for more information on our upcoming Etiquette classes for children, teens and adults www.itsallaboutetiquette or call 480 510-6346.
