By Christie Griffin
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Let's face it — some of us are high-maintenance (not that there's anything wrong with that!). Well, here's the moment of truth: Make note of anything you think is a must.
BEAUTY PREP
Are you...
... having your nails done?
... getting a pedicure at a nail place?
... paying a pro to do your makeup?
... going to a hair salon for your 'do?
... whitening your teeth?
... waxing your eyebrows?
... buying new primping products, like makeup, hair products, a special curling iron, etc.?
... splurging on hair accessories?
BODY GEAR
Are you...
... buying a new dress?
... purchasing new shoes?
... taking your dress to a tailor for alterations?
... treating yourself to new jewelry?
... getting a special bra or pair of undies?
... finding a matching purse, gloves, etc.?
... giving your date a boutonniere?
BIG NIGHT
Are you...
... paying for the prom tickets?
... renting a limo or party bus?
... going out to dinner before the dance?
... planning any post-prom activities?
... developing camera film?
... ordering a photo package?
... dreaming up any other ideas not listed?
Now, do the math! Call around or estimate prices, then find your best saving strategy below!
IF YOUR BUDGET IS...
Less than $200 (low)
Way to go! You’re keeping costs low. Cut back on daily extras like vending machine junk (bring carrots from home and bank the savings!), and babysit: You’ll be on track by prom time.
$200 to $300 (medium)
Don’t wait to start saving — try the “low” advice and negotiate with your parents for paid chores, like washing windows, cooking dinner, and cleaning the attic. The $$$ will pile up!
$300+ (whoa!)
You need a lot of moola! But don't stress. Follow the "low" and "medium" advice and hunt for a part-time job. It'll guarantee you a steady income that you can sock away!
5 TIPS TO SMART SAVING
1. Set a spending limit and stick to it. Write down everything you could possibly want and how much it will cost. Over budget? Start cutting out non-essentials.
2. Open a “prom fund” bank account (get a parent to cosign if you’re under 18). Vow to make weekly deposits — use a calendar to remind and motivate you.
3. Don’t give in to pressure to spend more than you can afford. Lots of small, $5 to $10 things can add up quickly. One way to control: Avoid impulse buys.
4. Try these $$$-makers: walking dogs and watering plants for out-of-town neighbors; shoveling snow; weeding gardens; selling your Beanie Babies online. You know you’re sick of them anyway!
5. Get started RIGHT NOW. Saving money isn’t rocket science — it just takes time and willpower! Try the buddy system: You and a friend set the same savings goal and “compete” to get there first.
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