Prom is almost here and this will be your first social engagement as an adult. Learning good prom etiquette will serve you well in your professional and social life. Learning good event etiquette will mean that you have the skills to navigate cocktail parties, weddings, business dinners and other events of social import.
Costs
Traditionally, men would be responsible for the costs of expensive events, but as society progresses, costs are usually shared by both people attending the event. To avoid awkward moments, decide beforehand how the costs will be split and who will be paying for what. That way you’re not both reaching for your wallets or waiting for the other to pay.
Choosing your date
This is the most crucial part of the evening and there are many things to consider. Do not go to important events with strangers. You don’t want to wait until you are with your friends and family to find out that the person you are with dresses like your grandmother, or sounds like a hyena when they laugh. If you are considering asking someone who is new to your circle of friends, take them on a date first to make sure you are a good match.
Choose someone who is compatible with you and that you enjoy having a good conversation with. Remember, you have to spend the whole evening with your date so make sure that they are entertaining. If you like dancing, make sure that your date likes dancing too.
Ask your date well in advance of the event so that they have enough time to get a tuxedo or the perfect prom dress. Co-ordinate outfits so that you don’t clash when together and girls should wear shoes that help to establish a good height ratio between the couple for pictures and dancing.
Flowers
Corsages and boutonnieres should be ordered a week prior to the dance. Make sure that the colors match your date’s outfit and that they are not allergic to the flowers in the posy. Ask you date if she wants a wrist corsage or a pin-on. Pick up the flowers in the afternoon before prom and keep them in the fridge. Slip wrist corsages onto the girls left wrist (right if she is left handed) or hand her the pin-on so she can do it herself. Girls can pin boutonnieres to the lapel of their dates. Pick up the lapel and secure the pin to the back of the lapel. Buying your date’s mom a little posy of flowers will definitely get you in the good books!
The big night
If you are picking up your date, make sure your car is clean. Don’t honk outside the house, park the car and ring the doorbell. Don’t be late. If you rent a limo, the girl gets in first. When you arrive at the destination, the boy gets out first and helps the girl. Remember to tip the driver.
Have fun! This is a night you will always remember so be yourself and enjoy.
