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Photo by: Rob McEwan
EXPENSES
It’s hard for moms to understand why girls want to spend a lot of dinero on prom. To avoid extra stress over costs, sit down with your mom and talk about your budget. If she flinches at the price of your prom tickets/dress/limo, negotiate: Ask what amount she’s willing to pony up. If it’s less than you expected, be patient. Brainstorm ways to make money go further, like dividing costs with friends (six in the limo, not four), and offer to do chores for cash. You’ll score brownie points because it shows her you know she’s not made of money.
CURFEW
She says to be home by 11, but that means no after-parties. If you want to stay out later, make sure you let your mom know exactly where you’ll be, and with whom. She’ll trust you more if you’re honest about your post-prom plans. Promise to carry your cell phone and check in from every place you go. “I called and texted my mom during prom night,” says Erin, 19, of Red Bank, NJ. “She’s the biggest worrywart, but it really helped settle her nerves. When I got home, she said, ‘Thanks for letting me know you were alive!’”
THE BIG NIGHT
It’s finally prom day, and your excitement is soaring through the roof! Remember, she’s just as pumped as you are — and superproud of you — so don’t leave her out. She’s hungry to help and you’ve got plenty on your plate, so put her in charge of pre-prom snacks, final dress/hair/makeup inspection, and the limo driver’s tip (heh heh!). If she’s getting too involved and you want her to chill (so you can relax), graciously let her know that you want time alone or with your friends, and that there’s no way you could’ve done it without her.
REMEMBER: Prom can be memorable for you and your mom. Including her in the smallest activities will make her feel like she’s helping in a big way, so try not to get annoyed or embarrassed when she fusses over you. She’s as excited as you are!
“The best thing my mom did for me was listen. When I got stressed, her advice made me relax and realize it’s all supposed to be fun. I was able to ignore the drama.”
—Melissa, 20, Clinton, NY
“My mom took pictures of the whole getting-ready process. At first I rolled my eyes and thought she was crazy. But now I appreciate having all those candid shots.”
—Dallas, 22, Stillwater, OK
“I knew I could count on an honest opinion from my mom about my dress. Girlfriends are great, but it was comforting to have her ‘blessing’ on my choices.”
—Kristen, 20, La Grange Park, IL
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