Homecoming…ahh, the long-awaited or dreaded event for most high school students. The annual American tradition tends to magnetize tension and stress with preparation overshadowing the weeks to come. Here I will dish out vital tips and tricks to help make this colossal affair proceed smoothly.

For the ladies…

Prepare in advance!

Please hear me when I say this: DO NOT WAIT until the last minute! Now, ladies, there is a lot to prepare for when it comes to this dance, more than meets the eye. Okay, first things first, get a dress asap. Remember to get shoes as well, although most girls end up wearing Converse or Vans at the actual dance. If you’re getting your hair, nails, or makeup done, schedule an appointment with plenty of time as a buffer. 

Dresses for LESS

Nobody wants to spend tons of money on a dress, but oftentimes the dress is more than their bank accounts anticipated. Here are a few places to get good deals: Lulu’s, PromGirl, Boohoo, Selfie Leslie, Nanoshe, Sissbest, Gogomira, Macy’s, Plato’s closet. 

For the gentlemen…

The Ask

The nerve-racking experience that you’ve been planning for weeks… Here’s my advice: Know your audience. Whoever it is you want to win over, be thoughtful. It doesn’t have to be extravagant.  It could simply be a few flowers you know she likes. Whatever you do, though, just make sure you don’t bring peanuts to someone who is allergic to them. I wish you all the best of luck in your proposals ahead. 

Attire For the Gents

Don’t wear anything too heavy. Make sure to dress in layers, so you can cool down if you get too hot (or if your date gets cold). 

The Details

Don’t forget the little things. Make sure you know who is driving where and when. If you are going with a date, communicate who is getting the boutonniere and corsage. Learn of any allergies before making reservations for a restaurant. Depending on your preferred style, you can sit down at a fancy place, arrange a potluck dinner, or even swagger into Chick-fil-A.

Pictures

Places to take pictures: North Park, The Point, the Strip District, or a group member’s house. My tip for pictures is to have a parent or parents there to snap some shots before you go. If you want to spice things up, add a little flare, get some cool signs, or maybe grab the dog for the classic puppy picture. 

For everyone

The best tip I can give you all is to have fun Do not get stressed over one evening. And if it’s not your thing to begin with, that’s okay, too. Just enjoy the time you have!