Prom Do's and Don'ts

For most, it happens once in a student’s four year high school career, and it’s a night few want to mess up. Prom has taken on a persona of its own, and a lot of pressure comes with that.
So with the big day approaching, what should seniors be thinking about? Seniors of the class of 2009 weighed in on what this year’s class should know about prom.
First things first: Who to go with?
“I would change waiting till last minute to get a date to go with,” said Lauren.
A date isn’t strictly necessary though.
“Going dateless isn’t as bad as everyone thinks it is.” said Keri.
What is most important is going with friends.
“I wouldn't change the group I went with. I went with my friends and had a lot of fun.” said Lauren.
“Make sure you go with who you want to be with that night because it's your last high school dance,” said Laura. “Don't stress about who is at your table or how many people are in your group. You should expect it to be a good time with the people you care about and will have lasting memories with.”
As for the other details, opinions differed. Some regretted not getting a limo.
“Not saying that being driven to prom by my friend's dad was a bad thing, but trying to fit four girls in poofy dresses in an SUV was a tight squeeze,” said Keri.
Getting one’s hair done caused a lot of disagreement as well.
“I don't regret actually going out to get my hair done, it was worth it; much to my surprise.” said Jessica.
“If I did it again, I would have my aunt do my hair. Salons are overrated because they never actually listen to what you want them to do,” disagrees Annie.
The dress may be the star of the night, but what covers your feet isn’t as important.
“Don't spend too much time or money worrying about shoes; you won't wear them long.” adds Jessica.
There is one important thing to remember, no matter what the plans are; don’t get too caught up in everything.
“Don't have ideas of grandeur!” said Annie. “Prom is another dance, so relax like you would at any other dance. It's more fun, and the stress involved takes the magic away.”
As for the night itself, be prepared for lots of pictures.
“Expect parents to want to take a bunch of pictures at every stage of the prom preparation process,” said Jessica. “Don't expect to take all that many pictures during prom. At the end of the night you should have more photos pre-prom than during prom.”
And be prepared for the food as well, especially if you’re a picky eater.
“Get something to eat before you go.” said Keri.
“The food will not be all that good, don't get your hopes up,” agreed Jessica.
That doesn’t mean all of prom won’t be great.
“I would say the best part about prom is that all the guys are decked out in tuxedos and nothing beats that!” said Laura.
“You spend a night with your class, people you really love,” said Annie, “and it's a wonderful moment of bonding because everyone knows they are leaving and just wants to have a good time to remember high school.”
Everyone agreed on one thing: just enjoy the night.
“I would have not worried about the limo, or where pictures were taken.” says Annie, “None of that matters afterwards and it just takes away from the actual day.”