10 Ways to Save on Prom and Graduation Expenses
Prom and graduation can be two of the biggest days of a young adult's life but that is not reason to make them take a big bite out of your budget. Here are ten ways to help save money if you are facing one or both of these milestones this May.
Dancing All the Way to the Bank
1. Young men should consider buying a suit that can be useful in college or job interviews instead of renting a tux. Ladies can save on prom dresses by choosing a simple dress and accessorizing or opting for a cocktail dress they can wear again. Never pay full price for shoes that you may only wear once to match the outfit; shop at shoe discount stores instead.
2. Don't pay for expensive hair and makeup sessions. Host a pre-prom get-together with the girls to do each other's hair and makeup or check out the local beauty schools for discounts.
3. Don't spend money on professional photography packages. You can call the shots by taking pictures with your phone or disposable camera of the moments you want to remember.
4. Limos are a large expense for such a small part of the evening. If you have your heart set on riding in one, share the expense with one or two other couples. Make using a family car fun with a CD of songs that recall events from your senior year.
5. Going somewhere unexpected in your fancy clothes can be fun and inexpensive. Enjoy an after-prom dinner at a late night diner, go to a midnight movie or even show off at the bowling alley.
Graduate to Savings
1. Save on party expenses by not using a caterer and creating your own hors d'oeuvres and treats in the school’s colors. This will be the last time friends may see each other and talking is more important than dancing so ditch the DJ for recorded music.
2. Remember that celebrations at restaurants or throwing parties at outside venues are always more expensive on weekends. Treat the graduates on a weeknight and let them enjoy their weekends getting ready for their new lives.
3. Don't get roped into expensive photo and invitation packages. Create your own or check for less expensive options than the one provider the school offers since they are generally the most expensive.
4. If you have to travel to a college graduation, see if there are residence hall facilities available or team up with other parents to negotiate a reduced room rate at a local hotel.
5. Graduation gifts don't have to be expensive: thoughtful or useful is always better. High school graduates might like merchandise with the logo of the college they are attending, a personalized scrapbook or a family heirloom. College graduates can always use something for furnishing or fixing up a new apartment.
