As I mentioned in the discussion on the first page of this budget section, some proms are getting too expensive for the guy to pay by himself--he used to pay it all once, back when your parents had their proms; but times have changed and this is no longer possible for most guys. These days, what's normal is to share some or all of the basic expenses outlined below. These include prom tickets, pictures, and transportation. If there is a post prom party with a cost involved, then you often split this, too.

However, I do have a word of warning here. Although many, many couples split these expenses, there are times when the guy prefers or insists on paying for the whole thing. If your date is gallant enough to offer to pay for everything, then do not disappoint or otherwise insult him by refusing to let him pay. On these occasions, it's not the money that matters, but the sacrifice-- and that's what makes the whole thing worthwhile.

Also, there is sometimes concern on the girl's part that she has to pay it all. Should you pay it all if you asked the guy? Personally, I don't think you should. I don't think you should because you already have to pay for your dress and personal items, and that is sometimes more expensive than the night itself. My suggestion is, that if you asked the guy, and now you are worried that you might have to pay it all, then you should talk the question of payment over with him and decide on who pays what. Most guys will agree to at least split the cost.

And now on to the fun and games--who pays what, and what costs what, I mean.

Prom Ticket

The price of tickets depends on where the event is being held and what's included. If prom is still held in your school gym, you can pay as little as $25 per ticket (very, very rare these days). Most of the time however, the event is held at a hotel or club of some kind, and the absolute minimum here will be $40 - $50. At this price, however, you can be sure that dinner is not included. If dinner is included, then the price will range between $85 - $140, depending on the place. Remember: this is the price per ticket, and there are two of you!

Pictures

There is always a professional photographer on hand to take your pictures. He usually offers a prom package, which includes pictures of various sizes, and an album to keep them in. Depending on the size and type of package, it may cost between $35 - $60. Your own additions and customizations to his basic package, naturally, will bring the price up.

Transportation

A limo is the most popular form of transportation, and it is often rented between several couples--which is fine, because an average cost is about $350 - $400 for the night, with prices beginning at about $225 for the first three hours and then from $50 - $80/hour after that. This does not include the driver's tip (usually $20), parking, or tolls. If you are taking a limo around, then definitely consider sharing the expense.

Post Prom Event

And finally, the after-prom event, or post prom party--this I can say little about, because it really varies. I have seen everything from a camping trip (whole weekend), to tickets to various clubs which have a special night for prom goers, to miniature golf, to simple strolls along the livelier avenues of a city. You'll just have to figure out what you're doing, what it's going to cost, and who's going to pay what. Still, if you want an average cost, then here's a figure I just pulled out of a hat: $85.

So what's left? Well, you'll notice I left out the hotel room. Sometimes a small group rents a hotel room or rooms and they party there. I also left out the many, many romantic things that couples do for each other, from extra flowers, to surprise gifts during dinner, and anything else. That is not, strictly speaking, necessary on prom night, and so the expense there is up to you.

Have a great prom night!

Sample Budget
Bid for two	$185
Pictures	$55
Limo per couple	$180
Post Prom	$85
Total	$405