Melissa Flores ‘27
EE Staff Writer
As senior prom is coming up on May 29th, every senior will spend weeks planning the perfect night. But something that consumes most of the time during prom season is spending money. Prom is a huge event that many look forward to throughout their years at high school. However, while the night itself may only last a few hours, the cost of attending prom can quickly add up.
Many students start preparing months in advance looking for the perfect outfit. Dress shops are filled with people and swamped with orders starting in January. Dresses can range from affordable online options to gowns that cost hundreds of dollars tailored perfectly to the owner. Tuxedo rental, shoes, jewelry, hair, nails, and makeup all contribute to the cost of prom pictures just as well. In addition, many students also spend money on flowers, accessories, or planning prom pictures at a friend’s house.
For many female students, hair, nails, and fake tan are all essentials that need to be done before prom. Hair alone can cost anywhere from $100 to $300+ depending on what you are getting done. A fresh set of highlights in long hair costs on average $260 for one appointment. Not only are hair appointments expensive, but nail appointment funds can also add up, especially if you are getting both a manicure and a pedicure. Many students will look to get gel or acrylic nails — which last longer than regular polish — that are more costly. Finally, a full body spray tan can $45 to $75, depending on the type you are buying.
Transportation is another factor that causes money to be spent on the perfect night. Groups of friends will rent limousines or a party bus to transport them from pictures to the venue. Even though the cost is split between multiple people, it is never cheap. Lastly, the ticket price for prom varies depending on your school, but it can range between $50 to $150 per person. Bringing a date along from another school could also include buying the ticket for that person, adding an additional cost to the event.
Despite the high costs, many seniors still believe the experience is worth it. At Trumbull High School, students only get one prom their senior year, and most want to make it a memorable night for years to come. Prom gives seniors the opportunity to celebrate the end of school with their friends and class before graduation. For some, the memories made from getting ready, taking pictures, and spending time together is more important than the dance itself.
At the same time, the pressure to spend a large amount of money on your prom can be very stressful. Social media adds to the expectations of your outfit and appearance, causing many students to feel that they need to spend money to feel good about themselves. However, it is always possible to save money by borrowing a dress or splitting costs with your friends.
Although prom can be expensive, the event is still very meaningful to many seniors, and it symbolizes the end of your high school career. Whether students spend a little or a lot, prom is more about making memories with your friends rather than worrying about your appearance.
Feature Photo Courtesy: Instagram