With Prom just around the corner, many CHS students find themselves dealing with an expensive dilemma. All of the items that are typically associated with Prom night have created a standard that is hard to live up to for the average high school student. USA Today conducted a survey in 2014 estimating that this famed night costs, on average, an outrageous price of $1,139 per couple. Such statistics make me feel economically obligated to provide a more frugal solution that results in just as much enjoyment and romance but at a fraction of the price. Here is a guide to assist you with successfully avoiding the rather costly stigma associated with prom.

The corsage and boutonniere, petite bouquets of flowers to be worn on the outfits of male and female prom-goers, serve as prime examples of the many exorbitant prom expenses. Ranging from $15 all the way up to $45, these traditional accessories give pennypinchers nightmares, but can be constructed for a lesser price. The most cost effective solution involves making your own corsage or boutonniere using flowers, wire, pins, and floral tape. Flowers can be found at supermarkets at discounted prices or can even be obtained from a garden. Wire and floral tape can be bought at the local Marshalls and the excess material can be used for next year’s prom or even in creative crafts. To make these accessories, thousands of simple tutorials exist online, providing a wide variety of designs that can be followed with ease. Although the corsage and boutonniere are noteworthy parts of classic prom attire, other aspects of an outfit affect your appearance more significantly, and therefore, demand a higher price.

Hair, makeup, and attire contribute to the bulk of prom expenses and do so because they are arguably the most important ones. Salons and makeup stores often charge ridiculous prices for something that can be done comfortably at home. Invite some beauty-savvy friends over and style each others hair while rocking out to some music and have a fun yet cost-effective time in the comfort of your own abode.

The iconic centerpieces of prom clothing, tuxedos and dresses, are generally the most expensive. To remedy this, ask your siblings, friends, and relatives if they have any of the clothing you need hanging in their closets. Scour your local vintage shops and you may find a prom dress that is one-of-a-kind and a whole lot cheaper than department store dresses.

The costs of transportation, along with dinner before hand, are often over priced commodities that can be easily avoided. Ask a parent or a friend to borrow car and if that fails, remember that as long as you are with your friends, you will have fun no matter what you are riding in. For pre-prom dinner, order some pizza with friends while you are all getting ready for photos.

Your prom night does not have to cost an excessive amount of money to be equally fun and exciting as others. Follow these methods to have a glamorous evening but at a fraction of the cost.