Prom Spot - Create Your Own Budget

Before you shell out cash for things you won't end up needing or wanting -- or for something you could get cheaper elsewhere -- figure out what you can expect to pay for the essentials. It'll help you plan out how much you need to save (or hit up your parents for)!

YOUR DRESS: $100 to $400+
Prom is a formal event, and formal dresses are expensive! Unless you borrow a dress or head to discount outlets or vintage stores, it's hard to find one for less than $100. But a great dress can take you into your college years, so it'll be money well spent. Want to start browsing dresses right now? Click here!

YOUR ACCESSORIES: $100 to $250+
This is a tricky one -- $40 here, $22 there -- the total can really creep up on you, so try to incorporate a few things you already own with your new pieces.

YOUR TICKETS: $80 to $180
The cost of the prom varies widely by region. It also depends on where it's being held -- a country club might be pricier than a chain hotel. And if your prom is just dancing and no dinner, tickets will be less expensive. And hey, if your date is paying for the tickets, skip this one!

YOUR WHEELS: $0 to $400+
Going in on a limo with your friends and their dates can be glamorous, but with four-hour minimums plus tipping, it's a major expense. If you don't want to take the limo route, look into renting a party bus or borrowing a nice car from someone's parents.

HIS BOUTONNIERE: $15 to $30
Roses are the most popular choice for boutonnieres, but there are cheaper options, like carnations. If you're not feeling picky, go simple and save.

YOUR HAIR: $0 to $175+
Depending on what kind of service and style you get, costs vary: A blowout is often less pricey than a dramatic updo. But if you (or your friend, mom, or sis) have a way with hair, do it at home.

YOUR MAKEUP: $30 to $75
If you want to test out different looks and shades a week or two before prom, budget in a trial run with the makeup artist (that's two sessions total!). And speak up if you don't like it -- you're paying big bucks to get it just right. If you plan on doing your own makeup, don't forget to account for any new beauty booty you plan on purchasing.

YOUR NAILS: $10 to $75+
Most nail salons offer a discount if you get hands and feet done at the same time. Doing your nails yourself? Check out our step-by-step manicure guide [INSERT LINK TO DIY NAILS STORY].

YOUR MEAL: $0 to $100
Maybe you’ll eat at home beforehand or at the dance. Perhaps your date will pay for dinner, but if you make reservations for dinner and don't talk about who's paying for what ahead of time, budget in $60 to $100 for his and your meal.

YOUR PHOTOS: $25 to $75
The cost of your prom portraits will depend on how many prints you order. They're usually sold in packages where you get a combo of 8” x 10”, 5” x 7”, and wallet-sized pics -- or a digital download. Count how many copies you actually need beforehand -- don’t just order the largest package.

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--Jackie Fisherman