Prom has evolved over the years with prices going through the roof.Prom expenses vary widely, with many students investing a significant amount to cover the essentials, while those opting for a more lavish, all-inclusive experience can see their total costs climb even higher.
Roncalli is hosting their prom at The Garment Factory. Since this venue features a naturally upscale, rustic-industrial aesthetic, students can save money by using it as their main photo backdrop instead of paying for a separate professional session.
Choosing pre-owned outfits allows students to curate a stylish aesthetic while staying budget-friendly. By opting for thrifted pieces, they can significantly reduce their overall spending compared to purchasing brand-new retail items.
“Prom can be worth the cost, but it really depends on the person. It’s a special night to dress up and make memories with friends, but it can also get really expensive with tickets, outfits, and everything else. For some people, spending that much money for one night doesn’t feel worth it. I think it’s only worth it if you focus on having fun, not how much you spend,” Alina Gonzalez said.
Peer pressure and the desire to keep up with fleeting social media trends often drive students to overspend. However, these styles change rapidly, and in a few years, you might find that the money spent on a temporary look would have been far more valuable if saved for long-term essentials like college supplies or your first home.
“Social media definitely adds pressure to spend more on prom. Seeing people post expensive dresses, big promposals, and fancy cars can make others feel like they have to do the same. This can take away from what prom is really about. In the end, it should be about enjoying the moment, not trying to keep up with others,” Gonzalez said.
