Opinion: Prom has become overly expensive for students and families
March 14, 2019
It all begins with the special proposal, next is buying a dress or tuxedo, then getting tickets at lunch, after that is ordering the corsage or boutonniere and scheduling hair and nail appointments for the day of. Prom is a very special and exciting night, and according to a survey done by Visa, the average Midwestern family spends $733 on the evening, but is it really worth that much?
Depending on where a girl’s dress is bought from, it can cost from $100 up to $900. Then it must be paired with shoes, earrings, necklaces and other accessories that add to the cost. Even spending $200 on a dress that will be worn one time, for one night, is crazy.
Different ways to save money on Prom.
For guys, renting a tuxedo for one night can cost from $100 to $200. In most cases, they also buy two tickets, which cost $65 a piece last year. This really only accounts for the basic necessities on Prom night, giving it a very expensive starting point.
The average cost is so high because there are many components to buy, with each individual piece costing more than anyone would like to admit. If most people realize how expensive Prom is, why does everyone keep spending so much?
According to Money.com, a major factor for anyone who attends Prom today can be described with one word: “fabulosity.” Essentially, high schoolers are preoccupied with how they’re going to look to other people. The pictures from beforehand must turn out perfectly to post later on social media. Since those pictures will be seen by many and saved for a long time, they’re willing to spend ridiculous amounts of money.
The other reasoning behind spending excessive amounts on Prom is because it’s a special occasion. Students don’t get the opportunity to dress up in formal wear very often. It’s exciting to wear long, fancy dresses and tuxedos, even though it only lasts for one night. There’s no need to over-do it.
The purpose of Prom is for the memories. The memories of a wonderful and special night. A night students spend bonding with their friends. How much is it worth? That is for high school students and their families to decide, before or on the day of May 23, the night of Prom.
