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The Ultimate Prom Survival Guide

Posted 04/21/2010 by Lauren Abrams

Your perfect go-to guide for making prom a night to remember.

Artwork by Rebecca Holt

Artwork by Rebecca Holt

Prom: the highly anticipated school dance; a symbol of high school seniors’ final year coming to an end. The planning and organization of this event is completely hectic until the dance finally comes and everything magically pulls together at the last minute. With the 2010 prom rapidly approaching, this guide was created to help light a path for those who don’t know where to begin when it comes to making this a night to remember.

First, and most importantly: attire. Not everyone can afford that $500 dollar dress or the fancy-schmancy lavender tux. What most people aren’t aware of though, is that there are places out there where they can find quality and designer clothes for a much cheaper price. Here are just a few places that can offer great dresses and tuxedos for a great price:

1. David’s Bridal Salon- It’s a common misconception that bridal stores only offer wedding dresses. This store has some of the most spectacular prom dresses in the area and offer a wide variety of sizes to fit everyone’s needs.

Phone Number: (720)-579-0700
Address: Unit B, 100 South Abilene Street Aurora, CO 80012

2. Al’s Formal Wear- This is a store that offers it all: tuxedos, dresses, and great prices. This location specializes in low cost formal wear, so if you want to look great for a low price, Al’s Formal Wear is your best bet.

Phone Number: (720)-941-2999
Address: 201 Steele St. #1B Cherry Creek North Denver, Colorado, 80206

Second, you can’t forget about dinner. After spending hundreds of dollars on outfits, transportation, and tickets, the last thing you want to do is spend a couple more hundred on dinner. The good thing about restaurants in the area is a good majority of them are willing to work with big groups for a great price. Here are just a few that are cheap and tasty.

1. The Old Spaghetti Factory

Phone Number: (303) 295-1864
Address: 1215 18th Street Denver, CO 80202-1401

2. The Cheesecake Factory
Phone Number: (303) 858-1111
Address: 8405 Park Meadows Center Drive Littleton, CO 80124

3. The Saucy Noodle
Phone Number: (303) 733-6977
Address: 727 South University Boulevard Denver, CO 80209-4722

Third, the boutonnieres and corsages. There’s a wide range of prices for both items, you just have to be a smart shopper. Both good and bad prices can be found at all the different shops, but here are some suggestions for those looking for a bargain and to save a little gas.

1. Happy Canyon Flowers- With a location that’s right around the corner from TJ, students without cars have complete access to the store. A quick five-minute walk will lead you right to the shop with great customer service and quality boutonnieres and corsages.
Phone Number: (303) 758-2511
Address: 5046 East Hampden Avenue Denver, CO 80222

2. The Little Flower Market- Located in a convenient area, the Little Flower Market offers great prices and a wide variety of colors and options. Great for any occasions.
Phone Number: (303) 765-2008
Address: 709 S. University Blvd., Denver, Co 80209

Last, but not least, is transportation. Because it is so close to the actual prom, most limo and party-bus companies are all booked up. Here are some alternatives so you and your date can still be chauffeured from destination to destination.

1. Your parents – It might seem like a bad idea at first, but when you look at the option from all the different angles, it’s a pretty sweet deal. First of all, it’s free. Second of all, chances are your parents would be more than happy to be involved in this night to remember. It’s a good option to keep in the back of your mind.

2. Taxi Service – Although it does cost, it’s not nearly as much as what you would pay for a limo or bus service. You have a chauffeur for the night who will wait for you while you get your dance on at the prom, and then transport you to after prom for no more than 50 cents per minute.

3. A close friend – For those of you who have friends who go to different schools, most of them have proms that are scheduled for different dates. This is a great option for those who don’t want much parent involvement and who want to show off their great outfits to friends outside of school. This can be a fun alternative; rent your buddy a tux and have him play chauffeur for the night.

This guide should be a good starting point for those who feel lost when it comes to prom. Remember, make smart choices and don’t forget to have a great time!

Prom 2010 Facts:

Underwater Fantasy

April 24th

at the Aquarium

Dance is from 8:00-11:30

Exhibit is open from 8:00-10:00
(anyone in the exhibit after 10:00 will have to pay a $1500 fine)

Ticket Prices:
$35 for singles
$65 for couples

Price includes parking and admission to the exhibit until 10:00
A signed contract is required to purchase tickets
Tickets on sale April 7 – April 16