Prom Spot - Prom Prep: 5 Ways to Cut Costs

Between the dress, the limo, the parties, and all those extras, it's easy to see how quickly the bill for the big night can add up. Want to save some cash? Check out these cost-cutting tips.

BORROWED WHEELS Snag a super-nice set of wheels from a parent or friend. Renting a limo is a huge expense, and if you can grab someone's cool car to cart around your friends, you'll save a ton. PS: Don't forget that the owner will probably be nervous about a group of kids cruising in their sweet (and expensive!) ride, so you'll probably have to prove how responsible you are. It might be a nice thank-you to offer them a free car wash post-prom.

CHEAP EATS You don't have to hit the fancy-schmanciest restaurant in town in order to have a memorable pre-prom meal. If you and your buds are all together (and dressed to the nines!) you'll have a ball anywhere. Head to your usual neighborhood hangout, or order in take-out and chow down buffet-style at someone's house.

DIY HAIR Want a prom-perfect updo? Enlist your friend's, sister's, (or even your Mom's) help. Find a style you like (for 50 great ones -- and how to pull them off perfectly -- check out our hair gallery), then do a trial run-through a week or two before prom. You'll work out any kinks then and save yourself a bundle later.

SNAP SAVVY Formal prom portraits can make great keepsakes (let's face it, you're not skipping these), but come on: Do you really need four 8" x 10" copies, plus 20 wallet-size photos? Check out the least expensive option. Chances are it includes more than enough prints. Besides, between you and your friends you'll probably take a gazillion digi-pics, so you shouldn't worry that no one will capture the big night!

SHOP AROUND For (almost) all of the above! If there's one part of prom you're set on going all out on, go for it. Just be sure you've done your homework first -- compare different dresses, accessories, limo companies, etc. -- and you'll get the kind of quality you're paying the big bucks for. Same goes for babes on a budget -- you probably won't find the best deals unless you're willing to hit the streets and check out the possibilities.

Other Articles You'll Love
Get Psyched with Our Prom Vid Picks
Pimp Your Ride Guide
Prom Etiquette Dos & Don'ts

--Jackie Fisherman