Prom Spot - 5 Ways to Find a Date Last-Minute

Could you cut it a little closer? Prom is this Saturday and now you're looking around and thinking, All the good ones are taken! But don’t worry -- you've got this hurried-girl's guide to getting a date ASAP.

Make a specific request
By now your friends are aware you're dateless, but don't expect them to help you without you having to ask. Your personal situation is rarely the first thing on other people's minds. So just put it out there! Can any of them arrange a setup? Their dates must know someone, at least. Just don't act panicky.

Go to the database
Look through all your friends on Facebook or MySpace, but don't stop there. Make a list including acquaintances, friends of friends, and distant cousins -- everyone. Don't write a mass email or post your request on your profile. Call or write each person individually (see above). People are more likely to respond and help out when you target them specifically, one-on-one. Otherwise, they might just ignore it.

Work a room
The key to scoring a guy on seconds' notice is to network and talk to as many boys as possible in the least amount of time. That means going to parties. Don't forget to mention casually to each guy that you're in need of a prom date -- and don't be surprised if one happens to appear out of thin air.

Ask a guy who's not expecting it
Go with the guy who's been crushing on you, even if he's not soul mate material. If he's shy, chances are he hasn't asked anyone else, and if he's smitten, he'll treat you like a princess. How great is that?!

Capitalize on a loss
Heard of any recent breakups? A number of perfectly presentable peeps are probably short on prom dates. (Note: It's better to ask a dumpee, not a dumper -- otherwise his dumped ex will be extra-hurt when she sees him so soon with another girl.) You'll gain a date and help another person get over heartbreak in the process.

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--Leah Furman

Photo: Veer