Prom Decorations

The Theme Game

Themes are now very popular for proms and weddings. Traditionally, proms have some sort of theme—anything from black tie casino to undersea enchantment. The theme you select should be carefully picked and should express the overall sentiment of your class, as well as the location of your prom. Some themes, such as ‘movie premiere,’ will complement prom attire. A luau theme, on the other hand, might require a simple addition to prom attire, such as a lei (flower necklace), which is given to attendees as they enter. Popular themes include:

• Castle
• Hawaiian
• Patriotic
• Garden Enchantment
• Celestial
• Black and white
• Places (New York, Paris)
• Decades
• Seasons
• Jazz
• Jungle
• Broadway
• Retro
• Asian
• Western

Rent or Purchase Decorations

If you have a large budget, you can rent or purchase some or all of your items from outlets that specialize in prom decoration rentals. Many of these can be found online, and some links are provided below. Also consider using:

• Party decoration stores
• Wedding stores
• Craft shops

Do It Yourself Prom Decorations

Once you have selected a theme, figure out what you need to purchase and what you need or want to do yourself. Creating decorations can definitely save you some money, and many of your peers would be interested in helping. Be sure to include the cost of materials when budgeting for items that you will do yourself. Some themes are easier to work with than others in terms of what you can do on your own, so be sure to think about that when you’re selecting a theme. Don’t forget to think about who can help you. Do you have a relative that loves to scrapbook or sew?

DIY Example

A celestial theme is a popular, gender-neutral theme that complements most prom attire. You can easily make stars out of carefully cut cardboard and tinfoil, most of which can be donated by parents. Use a solid black or navy blue material for a night background.

Decorating on a Budget

Don’t forget to use your community for resources if you are low on budget for decorations. Aside from offering great advice, the following places and people may be able to donate items:

• Parents
• Grandparents
• Recent brides
• Grocery stores
• Teachers
• Fabric stores

Colors

You've probably seen many of those home decorating shows on TV. If so, you know how essential color can be to the decoration of any room. Color also allows you some leeway. Once your theme is selected, figure out what colors match that theme. Not all of your items and decorations have to be in theme--some of them can simply match the themed decorations. If you aren't sure about colors, think about what complements your theme, or maybe look to your school's colors.

Typical Elements

Several elements typically complete your theme and color scheme, many depending upon your venue. Does your event venue have large walls or columns? If so, consider adding murals or garlands. Think about your available space and how to fill it without making it appear cluttered. Remember:

• Additional lighting (safe candles on tables, string lights)
• Buffet table
• Entrance area and place cards
• Ceiling decorations such as stars or disco ball

Background Material

Decide upon what to do with your walls or any stand up background. Hanging gossamer or other fabric is now very popular at proms. You may also rent or buy hang-able vinyls, cardboard backdrops, and murals, all of which can go with your theme and color selections.

Use Departments

Some school departments and clubs may have the resources to assist you. If you need a background painted or if you need art supplies, perhaps the art department can help. The drama department may help with lighting. Perhaps the football players wouldn't mind helping you move some large items to the venue before the event.

Time Management

During the entire planning process, it is important to manage your time well. Try devoting a certain small amount of time per day for researching, planning, and preparing your prom decorations. As the prom approaches, do as much as you can before prom night to prepare for the event. This includes:

• Leave all necessary items at the venue the previous night under lock and key.
• Hang lights far in advance.
• Allow yourself more time than you'll need on the day of the prom.
• Place large items first, then add the details.
• Fill your balloons at the end of your preparations to ensure they won't go flat.

Basic Tools

Remember the small, basic tools that you'll need. These might come in handy even if you are renting all of your decorations. Your parents will most likely be able to lend you these items.

• Glue gun
• Scissors
• Tape
• Hammer and nails
• Screwdrivers

Arch and Photo Area

The arch and photo area is your most important prom decoration project. Construct the arch at the entrance to the prom. It sets the colors and theme for your event and should impress the attendees. Decorate the arch with the theme’s elements, and remember that an 'arch' does not technically have to be an arch; any vertically standing structures will work well. Whether your event is located in a gym or a hotel, the prom theme will take the attendees to another place in their imaginations. This area needs to be grand enough for each couple to make an entrance, but small enough for a nice portion of it to be included in the photographs, which are typically taken upon entrances.

Tables

Prom guests will spend a fair portion of their evening at their table socializing and eating. A well-decorated table can contribute to a theme and provide elegance and comfort. Decorate tables with standard colors matching your theme, floral sheeting, or even the large, flat colored paper that you may find in the art department.

Centerpieces

Centerpieces for each table are essential to any formal event. You may choose to go with a traditional centerpiece of flowers, or you choose something more quirky. For example, select a pull-away centerpiece or one large item that can be taken apart to make small party favors. This can be easily done with stacked candles or a candy centerpiece.

The Personal Touch

After the big night, guests will want something to remember their night. The favors should fit with the theme and also act as their own prom decorations. Consider leaving gift favors that mean something to your guests. Many of these can be personalized rather inexpensively, and these will be remembered by your class in years to come.

Ideas include:

• Picture frames
• Candles
• Glasses
• Key tags
• Memory boxes

Online Resources

• LoveToKnow Party]
• Stump’s Prom and Party
• Prom Nite
• The Prom Planning Network
• Anderson’s Prom & Party Supplies
• PromSpot
• Prom Decorations on a Budget

Written by Tara Meacham

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