The Prom Checklist

The success of your special night depends on how prepared you are. Prom night takes a lot of planning from your prom dress to your shoes, accessories, transportation, and others more. Contrary to what you or others may think, prom night is not a piece of cake. Yes, it is fun and exciting but it can be very cumbersome especially when you're cramming for it: doing last minute prom dress shopping, walking in a busy salon without an appointment, fitting on shoes, digging your jewelry box for one that is good enough to wear, and more. Take our advice, prepare all your prom necessities earlier and you will not only look your best but you will definitely have a good night at your prom. Here's a checklist for all you need to prepare for prom night:

1. prom dress

The star of prom night preparation is the prom dress. You can't go to the prom without one nor would you want to go without it. The prospect of shopping for a prom gown is thrilling but it could very much turn out to be your shopping nightmare. It's not as easy as buying a beautiful eye-catching blouse on display in the mall. Shopping for your prom dress needs a lot of time and energy. You should be looking for prom dress designs at least a month earlier than the event date but it would be better to give leeway for probable delay (if you're purchasing your gown online), as well as for alterations and necessary adjustments (if you encounter any problems with your prom dress's measurements and fitting). It is also more recommended that you start looking for your dress and purchasing it early to avoid encountering the heavy traffic in shops caused by other eager prom goers.

If you are having your prom gown made, it would be best to be armed with the specific design of your choice in your mind or have it drawn on paper to hand it to your trusted dressmaker. Have your measurements taken to avoid any problems with fitting. You should also set a deadline with your dressmaker or ask him or her how long it would take for your dress to be completed so that you can adjust your preparations schedule accordingly.

When it comes to finding a prom dress that will look perfect on you, choose a style that complements your figure, your height, and skin color. Highlight your natural beauty. You don't have to, in fact, you shouldn't try to look like someone else. Be your own person

2. high-heeled shoes

The shoes usually come after the dress hunt but sometimes it's nice to do both in one day so that you'd have more or less an idea of how long your dress really is when you wear your shoes on. Moreover, the color of your shoes don't really have to match the color of your dress. Sometimes you can be creative and pick one that is of an entirely different color but somehow complements the color of your dress or you could match it with your jewelry and other accessories such as your purse.

High-heeled shoes are highly-recommended as oppose to flats. They not only make you tall but show off the contours of your legs such as your calves and heels especially if you are wearing a short dress or a floor-length one with a slit.

3. make-up

In order not to look pale under the lights, especially when a professional photographer is taking your picture, add on a touch of makeup to liven up your face. You don't have to hire a make-up artist to apply make-up on your self. You can do so on your own if you're used to it or you can ask someone who's had enough experience to do it for you. You can even browse magazines for brief makeup tutorials if you're hoping to achieve a specific look such as Janet Jackson's smoky eye makeup. But if you're not confident with a do-it-yourself makeup session, go to your nearby salon and ask for their best make-up artist. Then if you like his or her work (usually they do trial makeup), set an appointment which fits your schedule.

You can bring light make up for retouch later in the evening like a lip stick or lip stick pencil , a tube of lip gloss, blush on, and foundation. Add a small bottle of perfume or cologne in your purse as well as a pack of wet tissue and breath freshener.

4. hair

You actually don't need to have your hair done if you've already got gorgeous straight hair or long locks. Wearing your hair down is fast-becoming popular among teens and celebrities. All you'll probably need is some conditioner or moisturizer to keep your hair tidy. Add a jewel-adorned headband or ribbon for accessories. However, if you fear a bad hair day, go tie your hair in a nice, neat, and sophisticated ponytail or do the classic French twist. It's always a winner. Again, you can either do this on your own or ask for some assistance from a family member or friend or have it done in a salon. It's always nice to pamper yourself once in a while especially before prom night.

5. nails

So you have half the crowd turning their heads with your white halter dress with rhinestone lining. You look perfect, flawless. But then you reach for that glass of margarita by the bar or wave to a friend and you notice your hideous nails. Avoid this horrifying scenario. Have your manicure and pedicure a few days before your prom night or on the day itself while your hair is being fixed in the salon. Your nails may escape scrutiny but knowing that they're not clean and well-manicured will make you feel paranoid and ill at ease the whole night.

6. accessories

Other things you will need to check up on:

1. transportation
Whatever you do, don't walk to your prom. Here is an excuse to arrive in style. Every princess deserves a coach to ride in. Whether you are driving on your own, riding with friends, or renting a limousine, make sure you have your transportation expense covered in your budget.

2. tickets
Tickets won't usually cost much but sometimes it depends on the package. Your prom ticket will usually include photography expenses, dinner, and the program. But it can be a bit expensive especially if you are bringing a date. Make sure to have this covered in your budget as well. Without it, you can't go to the prom.

3. boutonniere
Boutonnieres are sold in your local flower shops, groceries, and markets. These don't cost much and can be used as an additional accessory. When picking boutonnieres, choose one that has a brilliant color such as yellow or pink. If you're bringing a date to the prom, matching boutonnieres are best.

4. post-party reservations
If dinner is not included in your prom package, a dinner reservation at a nice restaurant is a good way to end the night. Whether you're planning on a group dinner or just a romantic date with your boyfriend, a dinner reservation ensures you from the hassle of choosing a restaurant to dine in and lining up for accommodation. If you're not interested in having dinner but want to go somewhere else like a café or a bar after your prom, make sure to bring extra cash to cap off the night with a blast.

These are all the things you need to check up on when preparing for your prom night. Once all have been accounted for, you can breathe easier and relax before your prom night.