For moms, sending your kid to prom can be somewhat nostalgic, but it can also produce a bundle of nerves and anxiety. Reflecting on the events of your own prom night might send you into a frenzy of planning and preparation. You want your kiddos to remain safe while also having a great time. Here is a tested checklist that will help you ace the prom night planning adventure:
1. Define Expectations
As a mom, your primary concern is the health and safety of your child. Before diving into the planning part, you’ll want to be very up-front with your child about the evening’s expectations. Outline the curfew and other rules before committing to the planning process.
2. Establish a Budget
Kids can sometimes get caught up in the excitement of the event, and they may also feel pressured to keep up with their friends and peers when it comes to spending money on their prom night. After you’ve outlined the rules, it’s important that you also discuss a budget with your child and look for ways to cut costs. Being clear with the expectations up front will help avoid disasters down the road.
3. Start Planning Early
It takes time to coordinate all the details of a night out. Make sure you’re communicating with your child and consistently marking things off the list so you aren’t rushed.
4. Exchange Contact Info
You may or may not know the other families in your child’s prom group. Once you’ve established the group, it’s always a good idea to exchange contact information so you can reach someone in the case of an emergency. You’ll also have a blast developing new relationships.
5. Color Coordination
You’ll want to make sure your child and his or her date are coordinated in color and theme. Work with the family of your child’s date and get a good feel for the evening’s attire and expectations. You’ll want them to look like a pair, so initial communication is key. With the perfect color combo, your child will look the part and be ready to roll for the evening!
6. Transportation
Securing safe and reliable transportation for the evening is another important step in the process. Consider renting a party bus or a limo for your child’s prom group. You’ll rest at ease knowing your child has a sober driver with accountability for getting everyone to and from the dance in a safe and timely manner.
7. Food
Whether your child plans to go out to eat, or you’re planning to serve from home, you’ll want to make sure the kids are fed before heading out the door. Make sure the place and location is somewhere that suits the tastes of the entire group. You don’t want anyone to head out hungry.
8. Pictures
Your child’s prom pictures are a way for them to remember this moment forever. In addition to the formal photography that will occur at the dance hall, consider hosting a photo session at your home to capture some more candid shots. Your child might roll their eyes in the moment, but the photos are something they’ll cherish forever.
9. After Party
The after party can be one of the most anxiety-inducing parts of the night for a mom. Make sure your child has a plan for post-prom, and ensure you have all the details so you can know their whereabouts at all times. If possible, try to plan an actual activity rather than allowing them to simply “hang” somewhere.
10. Communication Device
If your child doesn’t already have one, consider equipping them with a cell phone or other device for communicating throughout the night. The ability to contact your child will put your nerves at rest and allow you to enjoy your evening at home. These are just a few of the many checklist items you’ll encounter as you plan your child’s perfect night out. Exercise patience and don’t dominate the planning process. Include your child in the conversation and seek their input. You’ll have fun working as a team, and you might just turn out to be the coolest mom on the block! Featured photo credit: La Vie en May via 2.bp.blogspot.com
