Prom is the ultimate school party, celebrating the end of years spent studying, practicing, and wondering if you’d ever make it to graduation. In theory prom is also the point in life where boys and girls magically transform into young men and women. However, some prom-goers seem to lack the manners and considerations that come along with maturity. To ensure you and your date have an unspoiled evening, displaying prom etiquette makes the occasion more pleasant for everyone.

The first step in mastering prom etiquette skills is deciding if you’re going with a date, arriving with friends, or attending solo. Nothing in prom etiquette says going to the prom with your friends or solo should be frowned upon; and besides, without an exclusive date you may dance with as many people as you want or your feet will allow. However, if you do decide to ask someone special to the prom, ask at least three weeks before the big night.

For those attendees with a date: Young ladies are presented with a lovely corsage before the date begins, to be worn on her right wrist. Corsages typically are made from roses, orchids, gardenias, and carnations. Young gentlemen receive a rose boutonniere from his date to be worn on his left lapel.

Once all the floral formalities are attended to, it’s time to hit the road; preferably in style riding a luxury stretch limo, Lincoln Navigator, or trendy 18-passenger Hummer. Remember even though you’re being chauffeured, that doesn’t give you permission to drink alcoholic beverages, or even to use explicit language. Limo companies adhere to anti-drinking policies and may even call parents if passengers act inappropriately.

Next comes the age-old question: who pays for what? The inviter should purchase tickets, while the invitee should at least offer to pay for the prom pictures. Gentlemen should always open doors, assist his date with her coat, and walk beside her on the side nearer to traffic. Ladies should be courteous and polite; avoiding the urge to order the most expensive menu items and ditching her corsage regardless of how tacky it might be.

Prom night should be considered a great privilege instead of an obligation. Having one last chance to spend time with your friends and making fond memories that will last a lifetime shouldn’t be taken for granted.

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