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Etiquette 101: What to do on the Night of the Prom

 

Events of Prom night are often burned into our memory like a movie that plays repeatedly throughout our lifetime.  Therefore, planning well is extremely important as I detailed in a previous article.  Even more important than planning well is remembering your manners, displaying courtesy toward your date, and realizing the etiquette expected of you.  So, gentlemen and ladies, let's get our game faces on!  It's time for Prom!

Covid Warning: This advice is based on all of us being protected from a deadly virus.  Please be safe and wait until it is safe to socialize.  

If Dining at a Restaurant

As I mentioned in my previous article, it is perfectly appropriate to dine at home with your date.  However, if going to a restaurant, there are etiquette rules to note.  Most importantly, remember your basic manners.  One of which is to walk to your date's door to pick her up.  Don't just honk your horn.  It's unmannerly. 

Once you arrive at the restaurant, state your name to the receptionist.  Both of you are led to the table with the lady in front of the gentleman.  The date orders something that isn't too expensive and the person who initiated the date pays.  However, if you are both very good friends and this isn't a typical date, you could share the expense.  Discuss this option beforehand. 

Important to note, your date will notice your table manners. Brush up on your manners with someone you trust.  Included in your manners tool bag are proper body language and table conversation.  Sit up straight; don't hover over your plate; eat small bites with your mouth closed, and use your napkin.  When conversing, allow each other time to speak.  Listen before responding and don't interrupt.  Don't broach any negative topics, like former loves, bodily functions, or complaints.  To this list, fold in religion and politics unless you are positive your date follows the same path.  These two subjects can be volatile when two opposing sides collide.

You both might be a bit excited and find your voices rising.  While not fair to other diners who are trying to enjoy the moment, it's best to be quiet.  Equally important, is to behave like a gentleman and lady.  Lastly, turn off your cell phone! 

Let's Boogie!

Upon arriving at the Prom, you may be tempted to rush over to your friends and ditch your date.  Resist!  Enter and dance the first and last dance with your date.  Young sirs, pull the chair out for your lady, stand when she stands to leave the table, and escort her when appropriate.  Additional considerations, she sits first and enters all rooms before you unless she is at your side.  At the end of the evening, walk her to her door. 

Note: An option to save money is to take your own pictures.

Unbreakable Rules

  • Stay sober.
  • Turn off the cellphones—no texting.
  • Don’t break up with your date that day!

Enjoy your Prom!

Please Read

Anti-Clueless Advice: How To Plan The Perfect Graduation Party

Prom Etiquette: Planning a Perfect Prom Q & A

Sweet & Simple Prom Etiquette Explained 



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