You’ve got the dress and you’ve got the shoes, but you have no idea what you are going to do after prom is said and done.
More important than what you wear to prom is what you do afterwards.
Since schools cannot be involved in the planning of any of the festivities, hire a professional.
“Give someone else the stress and responsibility so you can enjoy the party,” says Chris Wold, owner and special events co-ordinator for Northern Light Events.
Party planners have been planning dry grads for years and know all the ins and outs of what makes a safe and fun party.
“We have the resources and we have the time,” says Wold.
It may cost a little extra to hire a professional, but you will end up with a lot more than a few coloured streamers and some scattered balloons.
Companies like Northern Light Events may actually save you money on your event by passing along some of their discounted rates on essentials such as venues, DJs and rental equipment.
After grad is supposed to be a stress-free celebration, so let someone else come up with the back-up plans.
“It is going to go off without a hitch,” says Wold.
If the outdoors is more your style, camping has always been a popular option.
Or you can take the party to the next level: Why should it only last one night when you can make it last the weekend?
Add a little adventure to your weekend as well by planning a whitewater rafting trip, as many rafting companies offer group rates.
“I don’t think anyone who has done the whitewater rafting has come back and said they were bored,” says Dianne Scott, assistant manager of Maligne Tours out of Jasper.
Along with coming up with ideas for parties, transportation is also always an issue.
Why be crammed into a limo with 12 of your closest friends, while risking wrinkling your freshly pressed suit or dress, when you and up to 40 people can dance your way to the party in a spacious bus complete with dance floor and pole.
Go the Oil City Pub Crawls route and get the party started before you even hit the venue.
It is cheaper than hiring a limo and it definitely beats getting a ride from your mom.
Take it easy this grad season, be responsible and have fun.
You will want to remember your prom night forever, and you do not want to be the one remembered at your 10-year reunion for being the first one who passed out.
Safe ride
If high school movies have taught us anything, something usually goes wrong at prom, therefore a quick escape is needed. Short of hiring a getaway car, it never hurts to plan a safe ride home in advance.
Here are some options out there to ensure everyone makes it home alive:
• Hire a vehicle. Whether it’s a limo, bus or other mode of transportation, it may cost a little extra, but you will arrive at your destinations worry-free.
• Make arrangements with a parent or sibling. No matter what time of the night, they will come pick you up, no questions asked.
• Designate a driver. Make sure it is someone you trust will not drink.
• Keep your phone on you. This is great if your first option falls through.
• Always have emergency cab fare on your person.
Also, make sure your friends have planned a safe ride before all fun begins.
