Prom is widely considered to be one of the biggest events in a high-schooler’s career, but that’s doesn’t mean parents and students have to break the bank to create a unforgettable night. Consumer savings expert Andrea Woroch offers some tips on how to save money while still looking fabulous.
Dress:
For girls, prom is all about the dress, but you don’t have to spend a fortune to look your best. There are several Web sites that allow you to rent designer dresses for as little as $50 for the night. You can also find dresses at great discounts at consignment shops. If you opt for buying a new dress, be sure to spend the time to look for sales and take advantage of discount gift cards from sites such as GiftCardGranny.com.
Accessories:
Accessories can really make a look, but they don’t have to break the bank. Check with family or friends if you can borrow any necessary accessories—you never know what grandma has sitting in her drawer. If you can’t borrow what you need, check online for deals, there are many coupons and promo codes available that can help you save money. Woroch recommends Coupon Sherpa or PromoCodes.US to help find good deals. If you buy something at a store and have a smartphone, use its GPS to compare prices in the area or search for a coupon code. (Reuters)
Makeup:
According to Woroch, doing your own makeup, nails and hair can save you up to $200 and it can extend the fun of the day if you and your friends do each other's hair and makeup. If you need a little extra professional help, department and specialty stores like Sephora often offer free makeovers and tips.
Tuxedo:
For the tuxedo be sure to do your homework. Before committing to anything be sure to shop around and compare prices from several rental shops before making any decisions. And ask if you can get a group discount if you get a few friends to rent from the same store.
Flowers:
Buying flowers at your local grocery store can cost you as much as 30% less than at florist shops, according to Woroch. You can reduce the cost further if you choose a more simple corsage with one flower.
Photos:
Prom photo packages can often cost $50 to $75, but with the advent of high-quality digital cameras and cameraphones, you can take just as good pictures for a fraction of the cost.
Limo:
Limousines even with a group of people can get pricey and you may be able to get a better deal on a party bus.