Prom Etiquette for Teens
It is that time of the year again…prom time. It’s the time high school students don their best attire, get a date (or go with a group) and have a formal evening. For some, the most formal event they may ever attend.
The boys usually rent a tuxedo and the girls most likely, purchase a dress that is either long or short, but is very dressy.
Proms may be a little different today, than when I was in high school, but the atmosphere and expectations are probably similar. Regardless, there are some rules of etiquette that should be observed:
Ask your date in person or by calling on the phone. (Yes, you can still really talk on your phone.) Texting or emailing your request is very impersonal and should be avoided.
Respond to the invitation promptly and politely. You don’t want to appear like you are waiting for a better offer.
Know what is expected and stay within your budget. No need to break the bank for one evening. Decide ahead of time, who is sharing in the expenses for the evening.
Be prepared for photo time with parents and family members. And at the prom itself with your friends.
Be appropriate with your attire. If tuxedos are the norm for the young men, you’ll probably need to rent one.
Don’t forget the flowers. Ask what color your date is wearing and choose flowers accordingly. And don’t forget the boutonniere for the gentlemen.
Brush up on your dining etiquette. Most pre-prom activities include dinner out in a restaurant (and gentlemen, leave your jackets on at the table.)
Be attentive to your date. Be sure to dance with your date for the first and last dance.
Be prepared to send hand written thank you notes to parents who host a pre-prom or post prom party.
