It’s one of the most exciting times of the year. Prom for the senior is one of a few celebrations that really signifies their moving from youth to adulthood, and it’s a time of memorializing all of their hard work over the years. It’s night full of fun, dancing, and the best of times, but it can be stressful preparing for it. You have to schedule your hair, and makeup appointments, reserve your limo, and buy the perfect outfit, and you have no idea where to start. Don’t worry, I’ve got your back! Here’s the step-by-step checklist to help you relax and enjoy the festivities.
Schedule your hair and makeup
And do it early! Prom is going to have everyone from every corner of town booking hair and makeup artists, and it’s a mad dash to get your spot reserved. Once you’ve saved your seat, you can get down to deciding what gorgeous hairstyle you’d like to have for the dance. Bring a few ideas along with you to your appointment, and your stylist will help you pick the perfect one for you. If you’re planning on doing your own hair and makeup, whether on your own or with your friends, make sure that you spend a good chunk of time practicing beforehand. Organization is your best friend, so gather up everything you’ll need - bobby pins, elastic bands, etc. - and put it in a easy-to-find bag, so there’ll be nothing to stress over on prom night.
Make sure your dress fits
So you’ve found the perfect dress, and it looks stunning on you - in most places. Some spots are a bit tight, and it runs a bit long, but otherwise, it’s wonderful! Some work will need to be done. Like the last point, you’ll need to get this taken care of early. You’ll probably sense a theme as I take you step-by-step, the earlier you take care of things, the less stress you’ll have on your shoulders. Stop by your tailor for alterations, and don’t expect it to happen the next day - it may take a week or so. When you have your dress expertly fitted, you’ll have to start thinking about the rest of the ensemble. Go shopping early to avoid the crowds, and keep everything organized and in one place for when you need it.
Finalize your transportation
As soon as you can, make sure your transportation is set in stone. It could be the classic limo, or a flashy convertible, or your parents’ minivan, but that doesn’t change the need to make sure that you can get from point A to point B. There’s nothing worse than getting all fancy for prom, and having no way to get to the dance.
Plan your pictures
You’ve all seen the fateful photos of the unprepared: they’ve got red eyes, people photo-bombing and the light is all over the place. It pays to plan out your photos in time and in location. Not only will you get all your friends in the shot, but you’ll all look gorgeous in it. This will also help your parents out, so they can get their pictures too! Remember that these photos will be the ones hanging on your walls at home for years to come, so pick the spot you love most for its ambience. Planning truly makes you look good!
Take care of your skin
This is one of the most important points. Now, you probably already take care of your skin as it is, but you’ll want to take extra care in the days and weeks before prom. Exfoliate and moisturize your skin daily, and be consistent in taking good care of any pimples and zits that might rear their ugly head. Stick with what you know, as trying any new products in the days before prom might end up ruining all of your hard work. Don’t forget to take care of your brows as well, whether you tweeze them or schedule to get them waxed. If you do wax, make sure you do so a few days beforehand to avoid redness. Take care to make sure you’re glowing for your big night!
Prom is a big event, and one that only comes by once in your high school years. Above all the preparation, make sure to remember to really slow down, take it all in, and enjoy it. You worked hard to get here, and you deserve to party. Congratulations, graduate!