Thursday, Nov 21st

Scarsdale Prom Update

prom2011The Scarsdale Prom is coming up on June 2nd. Here’s what’s going on behind the scenes from Scarsdale senior Julia Goodman: We hear you are involved in the planning of the prom -- what is your role and who else is on the committee this year?

Planning the prom this year involved much less work and fewer choices this year than in prior years because this year the school did not offer as much money to support the prom. Last year the School Board paid for the buses to and from the prom however this year, due to budget constraints, they could not fund the transportation. So with a pretty limited budget there were not many choices available. We basically were left with the location that was cheapest. My role was to assemble a prom committee of 22 students, tour different locations, choose a location, choose flowers, candles, tablecloths, etc. We also need to choose a senior gift to give out on prom night but haven't gotten to that yet!

Where will the prom be held? Did you look at a few places before your chose the venue — where else did you consider?

The prom is at the Surf Club in New Rochelle. It is a decent location-not as great as last year. We looked at about four places but really didn't have much of a choice because many far exceeded our budget. There are a bunch of clubs on a strip along the water in New Rochelle and we looked at all of them. The Surf Club is nice -- it has a beautiful outdoor area on the water and has a big entertaining room. It is also offering us great deals on food.

How many students will come this year? Did you sell the usual number of tickets? How many seniors vs. underclassman?

There are about 400 students in our class and a great deal of those are taking younger or older dates. Tickets sold in an instant. The price went up about $25 each week which incentivized everyone to buy as soon as possible. I'm assuming there is a majority of seniors but there are definitely a substantial amount of underclassmen going. A lot of girls in my grade are taking younger or older dates so many boys were left to ask underclassmen.

How much are the tickets this year?

Tickets started at $150 and increased about $25 each week.

Will buses take everyone from the school to the prom?

Yes, it is mandatory that everyone take the bus.

What are you planning for food and entertainment at the prom?

The Surf Club offered us great deals on food. We are considering having different food stations rather than one predetermined sit-down meal. prom2011aThere will be more options to eat this year and the desserts will be more extensive as well. We are hiring a DJ and students in government are putting together lists of preferred songs to make sure the music is to everyone's liking.

Are there many pre-prom parties planned this year?

Yes! Most people go to pre-proms at friends' houses before the red carpet at the school. I am actually hosting a pre-prom party at my house this year. It is easier to take pictures and talk with friends at a smaller pre-prom party instead of only meeting at the school before the buses take off.

What is in style and what colors are in? Are most wearing short or long dresses?

The vast majority of girls are wearing long dresses. It is generally a tradition that senior girls wear long dresses and underclassmen and juniors wear short dresses. I personally am wearing a long dress because I figure I really won't have another opportunity to wear a long gown for a very long time! Gowns make prom feel much more special! A color that is very prevalent is black this year which is kind of surprising for a summer event. Other than black, many people are wearing bright colors. Patterns are not very popular this year. My dress is a deep purple. Many people have gotten their dresses from BCBG Maxazaria this year. It's a popular brand because of its moderate prices and pretty dresses.

Do you think kids are planning to go into the city after the prom?

I think it is inevitable that kids will be going to the city. However, definitely not everyone will be going. A lot of people hangout with friends after prom at someone's house.