Prom season is one of the most exciting times of the year.  Fancy dresses, limo rides, expensive restaurants with your main man… it’s all so glamourous, but can become expensive fast.  It is even harder for couples who have to decide between prom at two different schools.  Wishing you could beat the prom blues and have the night of your dreams?  Here are some cost-cutting tips you won’t want to miss.
    
    His prom or yours?  Often times deciding which prom to attend can be the biggest battle.  If it’s only in your budget to attend one, you’ll need to decide who’s it will be.  In this case, you may want to try following the crowd for a change.  If you have a group of friends you and your guy always hang out with, choose the prom they are all attending.  As long as your with your friends you are going to have fun no matter where you are.  If you still can’t decide, it may come down to a matter of seniority.  If you’re a junior and your date is a senior, you may want to attend his prom instead.  After all, it is his last chance to go.  Ask him which prom means more to him.  Chances are, even if he wants to go to yours he’ll be happy you asked.  If you do end up going to his, remember there is always next year for you to have your perfect senior prom.

    Who’s paying? Expenses always seem to get in the way of your dream prom, but it should never be stressful enough to ruin your night.  If you are worried that your date is paying for too much, try offering to pay for your own ticket.  If he won’t let you, offer to pay for his transportation.  The limo ride can definitely become pricey fast, and paying for your date is a great way to even up the tab. 

    Dinner too?  After finding the perfect dress, stressing about prom tickets and paying the down payment for your ride, the last thing you want to think about is paying for an expensive dinner.  Don’t stress, you are not the only one who feels that way.  Suggest that you and your group try something new this year.  It can be just as fun to have a caterer come to your house.  Having extra time for pictures is just an added bonus.

–By Kelly Leslie, San Francisco State University