Money-Saving Ideas

The average prom costs about $600. That's a lot of burger-flipping, baby-sitting or smiling as you ring up groceries. Take a look at some of these tricks to cut down on how much you'll shell out for the big night.

The Ride:

Carpool

Bargain with the limo company

Rent a party bus. Party buses are often cheaper than limos.

Borrow your BFF's dad's Porsche. Or Mercedes. Or Lexus. Or Buick.

The Tux:

Ask for student discounts

Borrow a tux. Yeah, right. Good luck with that. Sorry guys.

The Dress:

Shop off-season.

Borrow a dress. Know someone who was recently a bridesmaid? Or had their prom the year before in another town? Get creative.

Buy your dress at a consignment store. Many offer good deals and the dresses may have been worn only once.

Rent a dress. Some bridal and formal wear stores will rent dresses.

Look in off-retail stores (Ross, TJ Maxx). They often carry name brands.

The Look:

Do your own hair/make up. Up-dos don't look good on everyone. And guys like long hair. Trust us.

Find a beauty school student to do hair/make-up.

The Bling:

Borrow jewelry/accessories. Mom's stuff is probably more expensive and nicer than anything you'll buy.

The Flowers:

Purchase flowers at grocery stores.

Carnations are a good traditional choice and they're cheaper than roses.

Make a homemade corsage or boutonniere.

Look for silk arrangements

The Memories:

Have a talented friend/family member take photos.

Take your own camera to the dance.