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Prom season is officially here, and if you’ve been dreaming of the big night since the moment you entered high school, then you probably cannot wait to start planning all the details. Things are starting to get real — and tbh, there’s a lot to get done on the prom prep checklist.
Just think of all the components that go into slaying the dance floor, IG photoshoots, and the after-party. There’s the dress and suit, the corsages and boutonnieres (do you DIY or buy?), the hair and glam, and of course, the nails. You cannot forget the logistics, either. Where will pre-prom pictures take place? How will you get to the venue? Limo, party bus, parent drop-off, or Uber? Who will be your date? And what are you doing after the dance? Obvi, there’s a lot to figure out before prom night is here.
To help you stay organized and make sure you don’t forget a single detail, we’ve created the ultimate prom checklist. Screenshot the agenda below and you will be all set for a super fun prom night you’ll never forget.
Yes, planning for prom begins a few months out. You want to give yourself enough time to find a dress or suit, and you want to secure those hair and makeup appointments before the nearby salons are all booked up. Here’s everything you should do a few months before prom night.
It’s time to find the look of your prom night dreams. Get inspired and check out dresses, suits, and sets online and on social media. Once you have an idea of what you might like, go out and try some ’fits on at local department stores, where a large selection is carried. You can also visit nearby boutiques and vintage stores, where custom and unique options can be found. If you opt to get your prom outfit online, order your look on the early side so you can exchange, get another size, or alter if needed.
If you’re planning on putting your prom glam in the hands of professionals, you’ll want to book appointments for a makeup artist, hairstylist, and nail artist early on, as there’s a chance spots will fill up quickly — especially if any nearby schools are hosting prom on the same day.
It’s also important to secure any other appointments you may need for the night of. That could mean a photographer (if you plan on getting one), a limo or party bus so you can ride safely and in style, or a dinner reservation if your prom isn’t providing food.
It’s a fact that you cannot get into prom without a ticket. Depending on your school, prom tix will go on sale at different times, but you may want to get them sooner rather than later. Sometimes, the price of the tickets will go up as you get closer to prom.
The big night is getting closer. Now is the time to decide where you’ll take prom pictures, where you’ll head after the dance, and how you’ll accessorize your look.
Whether you’re heading to a friend’s house for snacks and photos, or meeting at a nearby park for an ~ aesthetic ~ photo background, start the prom group chat and figure out the pre-prom plans. That way, you have time to buy any supplies you need, and if you’re getting a ride to prom, you can tell the party bus, limo, or driver where to pick you up.
Some groups of friends head to someone’s beach house or rent an Airbnb the weekend after prom, while others head to someone’s basement for a big sleepover. You might also decide to just do a big bonfire or pizza party before heading to your own homes. Discuss with your group to figure out what you want to do, so you can get continue the party after the dance. You may want to consider stopping by the school-sponsored post-prom for a quick hello, too — there’s usually free food 😉.
Now is the time to ensure that if you need any alterations to your dress or suit, you’re making an appointment at the tailor with plenty of time to try it on and make sure you feel great in your ’fit.
This may be your first time spending an extended period of time in heels or dress shoes, so it’s important to break them in a little. To avoid blisters and pain that can put a damper on your special night, wear them around the house here and there. Trust us, you’ll be glad you’re not slipping on brand-new, never-been-touched heels as you dance the night away.
Your bling may be your last priority when it comes to your prom look, but don’t let it slip to the wayside. You don’t want to be stressing out over what accessories you’ll wear when you’re already running late for pics.
It’s crunch time. Over the next couple of weeks, make sure no details have gone unnoticed.
We know, it’s annoying, but just call and confirm that all of your appointments and reservations are for the right day and time. You do not want to be heading to the hair salon the day of prom, only to find out you accidentally made the appointment for a week later, and they can’t squeeze you in. Trust us — it’s best to play it safe when it comes to your big night.
Don’t let a bad makeup job or hairdo ruin your prom night — do a trial run beforehand. If you’re getting your beauty professionally done at a makeup counter, by a makeup artist, or a hairstylist, have them try out some looks a week before. If you’re planning on DIY-ing your look, practice the look as many times as you can before the dance. This way, when prom day arrives, you will know exactly what look you want and how to do it.
