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Prom Guide To...
Pre-Prom Dining

Well, it's almost that time, and you're trying to decide where to go for dinner before the prom. It seems to me that the whole decision is based on who is accompanying you that evening.

How Much to Spend

I mean, if it isn't a serious relationship and this isn't someone you would ever even dream of spending the rest of your life with (much less the school year, which is close to over), you should consider this when choosing where to have dinner. Simply put, don't send mixed signals by demanding outrageous flowers and candlelight dinner.

On the other hand, if it's a "new" relationship and you don't know each other well, you'll want to be considerate of your "date" and do something appropriate. If you are paying or your date has told you money is no object, do what you will. If there are budget limitations, do something different and add a few tweaks here and there to make it memorable. One doesn't have to eat at a 5-star restaurant to have a great time. Romance outweighs an expensive dinner by a long shot.

If you are really serious about each other and have a long-term relationship, you can sit down together and decide where to go and what to spend. You may want to do without dinner and spend your money on something fun for the "after prom."

If you are going with a friend, why not get your other friends together and have a group dinner at a fun place. No one is going to care how expensive it is; they are going to care about how much fun they're going to have. More people, more fun.

By the way, chain restaurants are much more accommodating since the tables are larger, and they are used to serving large groups. Or be less conventional and take a party room at your local fast food restaurant, decorate it and let loose pre-prom!

What to Do Once You Decide

• Make a reservation. Don't just think you're going to show up and get a table. It just doesn't happen (especially if prom night is a Saturday). Make sure you have plenty of time to have your pictures taken before dinner and be done with dinner before prom. And don't forget to ask for non-smoking!
• Check out payment options. If you're planning to pay by credit card (be it yours, mom's or dad's), make sure they take MasterCard, Visa or Discover (whichever it may be). If you're planning to pay cash, make sure you have plenty just in case you feel like going crazy and ordering that Lobster Larry dish.
• Find out if there is a dress code. If you are going to an expensive restaurant that considers itself "fancy," a tie may be in order. Or an order from the maitre ‘d!
• Bring a bib. I don't know about you, but I never leave meal without a spot somewhere obvious. So, if a bib would embarrass you, make sure you never miss your mouth. On a similar note, beware of wayward poppy seeds, spinach and BBQ sauce. And if you think there's a chance of a good night kiss—steer clear of garlic, onions and hold the Italian dressing!

Have fun and have a dance on me, from the Party Girl and Party411!

Questions about  planning? Ask the Experts!

Have Fun!, from the Party Girl and Party411!