Okay, let's be real: the dress is kinda the main event, right? But don't let the pressure get to you. Here's my advice, based on years of… well, let's just say I've seen a lot of prom dresses. Don't worry, though I had my fair share of fashion faux pas, so you don't have to.

• Start Early: Don't wait until the week before prom to start looking. Trust me, you'll be competing with everyone else, and the best options will be long gone. I made that mistake once, and ended up with a dress that looked like it belonged on a frosted cupcake. Not a good look.
• Set a Budget (and Stick to It!): It’s easy to get caught up in the prom frenzy and blow your entire savings on a dress you'll wear once. Determine how much you can realistically spend, and then stick to it. There are amazing dresses out there at every price point. Maybe even consider borrowing or renting! It's all about how creative you can get. Oh, and don't forget about alterations! They can add up quickly.
• Consider Your Body Type: Not every dress looks good on every body. That's just a fact. Figure out what silhouettes flatter your figure. A-line dresses are universally flattering, while mermaid styles are perfect for showing off your curves. Empire waists can create the illusion of length. Don't be afraid to try on different styles – you might be surprised at what you find!
• Don't Be Afraid to Shop Online (With Caution): Online shopping can be a goldmine for prom dresses, but proceed with caution. Make sure the website is reputable, read reviews carefully, and check the return policy before you buy. You might also get lucky at thrift stores! You can upcycle it yourself, or hire a professional tailor to give it an upgrade!

Alright, you've got the dress, you've got the date (or you're rocking solo, which is totally cool too!), now it's time to capture the memories. And let's be honest, nobody wants to look back at their prom photos and cringe. So, here are a few tips for nailing those prom-poses:

• The Classic: The traditional pose – hands clasped, smiling at the camera – is a classic for a reason. It's simple, elegant, and timeless. But don't be afraid to add your own twist! Maybe tilt your head, or add a playful smile.
• The Candid: Candid shots are where the real magic happens. Laugh, dance, and just be yourself. Don't try to force anything, just let the photographer capture the moment. These are the photos you'll cherish the most.
• The Dip: If you're going with a date, the dip is a must. It's romantic, dramatic, and makes for a great photo. Just make sure you practice beforehand so you don't end up on the floor! (Trust me, it happens more often than you think.)
• The Group Shot: Prom is all about celebrating with your friends. Gather your crew and strike a pose! Don't be afraid to get creative and have fun with it.
• The Accessorizing: If your dress is extra poofy, make it count! Turn to your side and extend it. You can also lift it up, so there's more character.

So, you've made it to prom! Congratulations! Now it's time to put all of your planning into action. Here are a few dos and don'ts to help you survive the night:

• Do: Wear comfortable shoes! You'll be on your feet all night, so choose shoes that you can actually dance in. Blisters are not a good look. I made that mistake, and I ended up dancing barefoot for half the night! I don't have any regrets about that, even if it wasn't the most sanitary choice.
• Don't: Overdo it with the hairspray. Nobody wants to look like they're wearing a helmet. Keep it natural and let your hair move. That hair will stay through anything!
• Do: Eat something before you go! Prom is a long night, and you'll need energy to dance and socialize. Don't skip dinner, or you'll be starving by midnight.
• Don't: Drink too much punch (or anything else, for that matter). Prom is about making memories, not embarrassing yourself. Keep it classy and enjoy the night.
• Do: Relax and have fun! Prom is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so don't let the pressure get to you. Let loose, dance with your friends, and make some memories that will last a lifetime. You'll probably never see a chance like this again.

The prom's over. You wake up with smudged makeup and a slight headache. But then, you start looking at the pictures, reliving the magic of the night. Maybe I will give advice on a thing or two.

• Share Your Photos: Post your favorite photos on social media and tag your friends. Relive the memories together and spread the prom love.
• Create a Scrapbook: Print out your photos and create a scrapbook or photo album. It's a great way to preserve your prom memories for years to come.
• Write Down Your Memories: Take some time to write down your favorite moments from prom night. The details might fade over time, but your written memories will last forever.
• Start Planning for Next Year: If you're a junior, start thinking about your prom plans for next year. It's never too early to start dreaming!