Real ones already know: Prom (aka the most highly anticipated soirée of spring) starts long before you actually set foot on the dance floor. From planning a swoon-worthy promposal to finding the perfect dress, so much of the fun is in the buildup. That’s why we recommend keeping the hype levels high by hosting an unforgettable pre-party. We’ve got all the details (plus our most Insta-worthy inspo) to make your bash one for the books. One question remains: Will you go to the dance with us?
The Playbook
Because you deserve a night that’s dazzling *and* drama-free.
DO Prep your party space the night before. Trust, you don’t want to be hanging decor in your heels.
DON’T Talk nonstop about your date. It’s tempting to spend the pre-party scheming about how you’ll score that slow dance, but this is your chance to get decked out with your girls (and if you’re a senior, the last one for, gasp, a long while).
DO Let your parents take tons of pics. You’ll be glad you have the mems when you look back later.
DON’T Leave one gal stranded behind the scenes. Is she your designated group photographer, missing out on most shots? Offer to swap places so everyone gets their moment.
DO Recruit a cleanup crew before you head out. It only takes a second to gather up empty cups or tidy the table.
DON’T Plan for perfection. The unexpected will happen—whether it’s a broken zipper or stubborn eyeliner wings that Just. Won’t. Match. Stay calm, come up with plan B and embrace the inevitable moments of chaos.
The Ambience
Channel your inner dancing queen. Faux flowers add a romantic feel to disco balls. Cue the pump-up playlist!
Bedecked in blooms. Take your walls from drab to fab with 3D tissue-paper flowers. Snag a set from Etsy, grab some wall-safe painter’s tape and arrange in an artful swath to bring the spring vibes.
Ditch the limo. Why blow your budget on a ride? Add some (faux) garlands to your pickup, or grab some window markers (they wash off) and have your squad deck out mom’s van in personalized doodles.
The Food
Think finger foods. These rainbow sammies mean smiles, not spills. To make, spread Boursin cheese on fluffy bread (cut off the crusts), then layer with your veg of choice. Prefer something sweet? Repeat with regular cream cheese, add fruit and a drizzle of honey.
Eat for energy. If you ask us, the best prom date is the one slathered in PB (that dash of protein will fuel the all-night dancing marathon) and sprinkled with chocolate shavings. Finish with flaky sea salt to complete your tasty treat.
Hype hydration. Your emotional support Owala might, um, stand out in prom pics. Instead, elevate your H2O intake by serving fruit-infused water. Lemon water is a classic, but lime, grapefruit and rosemary sprigs give an unexpected herbal flavor.
The GRWM
Glam with the gals. Set up a dedicated zone with plenty of good lighting (our pros swear by Newmowa’s clip anywhere light, $32, amazon.com) for doing hair and makeup (bonus points for calling in your older sis or cousins to help with the process). Sport silky button-up PJ sets because 1) they’re so spa day-coded and 2) you can change into your dress without compromising your updo.
DIY yourself flowers. Go extra sentimental by crafting your own corsage. Pick a rose or bloom in your fave hue, then cut about 12 inches of satin ribbon. Bend a length of floral wire to thread the ribbon through, then attach your stem using floral tape. Tuck any exposed edges behind some baby’s breath and ask for help tying a big bow.
Prep a li’l extra. Stash a mini emergency kit in your clutch with Band-Aids, an extra lippie, hair ties, bobby pins, safety pins, blotting papers and a few tampons. Guarantee you’ll make a new friend after helping someone out in her time of need.
The Photo Opps
Go green. If the weather allows (we’re manifesting sunny skies for you), there’s no better setting than golden hour. For a lush backdrop, scout out the best spots in your backyard or pop over to a park on your way to the dance for some stunning shots.
Fashion a photo booth. Opting for indoor pics? Hang a patterned tablecloth or bed sheet with masking tape, then gather fun props like feathered fans, goofy glasses and flower crowns that won’t mess up your ’do. Who’s ready for the classic prom photo pose? You are.
Bring out the vintage vibes. Break out your Polaroid camera so you can save a hard copy of every snapshot for your scrapbook. Keep multicolored Sharpies on hand and have guests write heartfelt notes at the bottom.
Hey, girl! Just wanted to let you know, this piece originally ran in our April/May 2025 issue. Want more? Read our print mag for free *today* when you click HERE!
