Prom night – such a magical time. This night is something that is a high point of anyone's high school career, and being in charge of planning such an important event can be taxing.
The theme of the prom is something that you will most likely remember forever, and it will hopefully factor into the great prom night stories you tell your grandchildren. So it's best to make the theme a good one!
Prom themes are important because they add flavor to the prom, and factor into post prom activities and accessories for the prom itself, as well as one of the biggest factors of the prom – the music. As such, you will want to figure out the theme long before any other prom details.
Some themes just lend themselves to the prom atmosphere:
Hawaiian – This theme works very well with both the weather, as most proms are held when it's finally getting nice out, and it lends itself to a plethora of neat decorations. Grass skirts, surf and sand, leis, and a light hearted feeling abound at a Hawaiian themed prom.
Casino – Neon lights, flashing slot machines, and maybe even a lucky gamble could get you far here. Fake money favors, sultry music and atmosphere, cards, dice, and more could be added to complete this theme.
Western – Ride 'em cowboy! For a down home look, try getting southwestern style decorations, colors, and maybe even a cowboy hat or two! You might want to save the bull riding for after the prom, however.
50's, 60's, 70's – Three memorable decades that might even have you grinning at memories. There is a wealth of ideas for centering a prom around these time periods, and parents would be interested in getting involved. After all, this would be something the parents would know more about! A soda shop setting for the 50s, a car hop for the 60s, and a disco for the 70s are always well received ideas.
In addition to these tried and true classics, there are some truly off the wall ideas that simply have to be seen to be believed:
Star Wars – Some might say it's too geeky to be done, but be honest – Star Wars is definitely a pop culture phenomena. High tech and futuristic decorations would lend an otherworldly mood to the prom, although creative planning would be a must for this theme. Besides, how cool would it be to have the prom king and queen walk down to the Imperial march?
Jungle – Strip away the feeling of constraint and let yourself go wild in the jungle. This theme would make use of some great decorations and props, as well as some truly unique soundtracks. To make it even more authentic, see if you can't rent a few jungle animals to come say hello!
Candy Land – Remember that board game you used to play when you were five? Well here's an expanded idea that works for its cutesy factor. Pastel colors and candy decorations would lend itself to a whimsical air, and you could scatter actual candy here and there. Just beware of the sugar rush.
No matter which theme you choose, just remember to adapt it to your school to make the students' prom night one to remember!
