Memories of prom night makes me think it was just yesterday but what happened before hand made me wish it never happened. Was my prom experience really that bad? Let’s just say it was not the ideal prom I had in mind. It was nothing like the movies. Nonetheless, I had a good time, and that’s all that matters. So what made prom so dreading? Well… preparation is key!

Prom Guide to Memories: Preparation Do's and Don'ts

Summer before senior year, I was looking forward to everything that was to come, especially prom and graduation! Then again, who doesn’t? I always considered myself to be a pretty organized gal, being prepared and making lists are my specialty! So what’s a girl to do but make a list of what she wants for prom. From the style, material, colour of the dress, to hair, makeup. I even listed down contacts from limo services, finding the best rates and all.

I thought I had it all figured out; it was on paper, this was before the school year even started, everything will turn out perfectly… Yeah, right. I fell victim of being in the “too good to be true” trap and now, I no longer sit too comfortably in any situation any more. Back to the story.

Obviously it was not perfect, everything on paper was the opposite of what really happened. No, seriously! Till this day I am still a bit upset but I can honestly look back and know that was MY prom story. However, this post isn’t about my prom story, that can be for another time. Right now, I want to provide a prom guide, preparation do’s and don’ts, tips, and advice from experience, so your memories from prom can be unforgettable in the most enchanting way possible.

Here’s what you DO

  • Create a list and use the SMART criteria for each item listed
    • Specific – Be clear not vague with what you want
    • Measurable – Stay on track with your progress
    • Achievable – Ask yourself, can it be accomplished?
    • Relevant – Be realistic
    • Time – Set an end date
    • Example: Dress: To find a peach coloured chiffon gown with a maximum budget of $300 before May 9th, 2014.
  • If booking hair/makeup appointment, make sure to meet with your artist and stylist before the actual application date. Explain what you want, show them pictures, play around, keep notes and take pictures.
  • If doing your own hair/makeup, experiment, watch tutorials and practice. Know exactly what you’re doing for and on the day
  • Get along with your shoes to break them in
  • Pack your clutch/purse ahead of time (ticket, mints, hair and makeup touch up essentials, bandages, phone, camera + extra batteries, whatever else)
  • See your ideal dream dress? BUY IT!, even if there is more than one dream dress. Sure, your wallet will be crying for the time being, let it be or bury yourself in regrets later on. Just make sure to ask the sales advisor about their return/price adjustment policy before purchase. Take it home, try it on and take multiple pictures at different angles and poses. Doesn’t look good any more? Return it. Love it but pricey? Keep the receipt and tag on, wait for a sale and ask for a price adjustment. If the dress is way too expensive and sale prices aren’t coming your way, browse around, you might be able to find a similar style at a low price elsewhere.

Here’s what you DON’T do (aka my mistakes):

  • Basically don’t do the opposite of what I mentioned you should do
  • Buy a dress last minute. In my case, 5 days before prom.
  • Not meeting with the makeup artist in person prior to prom day
  • Give yourself a budget-free budget
  • Rush and stress yourself, things can go a lot worst doing so.

And there you go, your Prom Guide to Memories: Preparation Do’s & Don’ts. Hope all goes well, don’t be alarmed if it doesn’t. If it’s meant to be, it’s meant to be. Just remember to have fun, be safe and cherish the night!

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