Etiquette book provides hints for a fun – and safe – prom
et
·i·quette [et-i-kit, -ket] – noun: 1. rules of acceptable
behavior; the rules and conventions governing correct or polite
behavior in society in general or in a specific social
situation.
(Encarta Dictionary)
Of all the things teens typically worry about when planning
their perfect prom night, socially acceptable behavior doesn’t
usually find its way to the top of the list. Prom, after all, is a
night where girls want to be beautiful, guys want to look cool and
both just want to get through the night without embarrassing
themselves.
Etiquette book provides hints for a fun – and safe – prom
et·i·quette [et-i-kit, -ket] – noun: 1. rules of acceptable behavior; the rules and conventions governing correct or polite behavior in society in general or in a specific social situation.
(Encarta Dictionary)
Of all the things teens typically worry about when planning their perfect prom night, socially acceptable behavior doesn’t usually find its way to the top of the list. Prom, after all, is a night where girls want to be beautiful, guys want to look cool and both just want to get through the night without embarrassing themselves.
It is possible to wow both dates and parents with impressive social skills, and San Benito High School’s Prom Committee is hoping to help. Local teens getting ready for this year’s prom – “Moonlight Masquerade” – can turn to the school’s annual Prom Etiquette Book for advice on everything from what to expect upon arriving at the prom to what to do afterwards.
The Prom Etiquette Book has been a tradition at SBHS since 1992; the first book was created by the Class of 1993 (the Junior Class is typically responsible for organizing the prom) as a way to help inexperienced prom-goers with the social aspects of a formal dance. This year’s book was assembled by Claudia Velazquez, Jan Bambrick and Dina Silva.
Since then, however, the book has taken a slightly humorous tone – while it is still filled with helpful hints, much of the advice is written with tongue definitely in cheek. In the “Asking Advice” section, for example, suggestions on how to ask “that special someone” include baking a cake and writing the word “prom” in frosting, putting an ad in the newspaper, walking around school with a piece of paper asking “will you go to the prom with me?” and even writing it in the sky.
The following is a list of handy hints from the book both guys and gals can use during tomorrow’s prom. The hints include personal hygiene tips, what to do in the restaurant and how to avoid looking foolish on the dance floor. The book also stresses the importance of staying safe and sober, and gives advice on what teens can do after the prom without alcohol playing a part. After all, the prom is meant to be a night to remember, not a night of regrets.
Prom Tips for Girls
When you go to get your hair done, wear a buttoned shirt so you won’t mess up your hair
Remember to pick up a boutonniere
Give yourself plenty of time to get ready
Shave armpits and don’t stuff bra
Do your make-up before putting on dress
Two words – clear deodorant
Introduce your date to your parents and confirm after-prom plans and what time you are expected to be home
Offer to pay for half of dinner. Even if your date says no, it will be a nice gesture on your part
Offer to pay for the pictures
Don’t forget to compliment your date
Carry mints or gum
Prom Tips for Guys
Don’t get a haircut the day before prom
Get directions if you are driving to a new location
Pick up your date on time
Be polite when meeting your date’s parents
Remember manners at the restaurant
Make sure you have enough money for dinner and tip, pictures and any after-prom plans
Let your date order first
Prom do’s
Use your best manners
If driving, have directions, and leave yourself plenty of time to get to where you are going, make sure you have enough gas, carry a flashlight and bring jumper cables (just in case)
Be romantic (unless your date is a friend, of course)
Dance – it’s why you are there
Bring an extra pair of clothes, shoes included, for after prom or just in case
Smile when you are having your pictures taken
Be respectful of who you are with
No means no
Prom don’ts
Change your mind at the last minute
Order food that gives you gas
Order something with large amounts of garlic
Order salad and then pick at your date’s dinner
Lock your keys in the car
Run out of money
Run out of gas
Complain about how expensive things are
Complain in general
Brag about yourself
Make constant trips to the bathroom
Primp too long in public restrooms
Talk about exes
Ditch your date
After-Dance Ideas
(with parental approval)
Go to the beach
Play truth or dare
Slow dance under the stars
Rent a movie
Go out for breakfast
Go to after-prom parties
Go camping
Stay up and talk about what a great time you had
Watch the sunrise
