8 Ways to Save Money on Your Prom

I was probably not like many other girls in my class. I did not want to go to our prom. I wasn't dating anyone at the time, so I didn't think it would be too much fun and couldn't justify wasting money on something I didn't want to do in the first place. As I watched my mother's eyes well up with tears at the thought her only daughter would miss the prom, I reluctantly agreed to go, but only on MY terms, which meant spending as little money as possible. I managed to do it for less than $20 and so I'd like to share my tips with you.

1. Find a way to get a discounted ticket. If you are truly in a financial crunch, that $50-$100 ticket can be a big blow to your savings. Sometimes schools will allow discounts for group tickets purchased, so see if you can rally up with some other friends. If this is not an option, try talking to one of your favorite teachers or principal to see if they would consider waiving the fees for students who can't afford to go. Some prom committees will factor this in their budget. Another option is to take a collection up at school from the students or teachers for helping lower the prices of prom tickets or helping others who can't afford to get in. You could also offer to work for a neighbor or teacher at the school for the amount of a ticket if all other options fail.

2. Find your dress at the thrift store. I paid $4 for a gorgeous, long, silky, and dare I say sexy, red dress at our local Goodwill store. I had never worn a red dress before, and I know it wasn't in style at the time of my prom. But I looked good in it, it was formal, and I couldn't beat the price. The night of prom I attracted a lot of attention with that dress, getting compliments from people I never even talked to before! Only my best friend and I knew it was a $4 dress! Other girls probably paid nearly $200 on theirs!

3. Get your shoes at a big box retailer. I spent the most on shoes, for a $12 pair from Wal-Mart. They were sleek and no one even noticed them, let alone worried about how much I spent for them or where I got them!