Save money on prom

Don't be one of those people that skip prom because of money! Look for fun and creative ways to save. According to Visa, families will spend, on average, $1,139 on prom related items. Considering the average wedding costs around $25,000, we don't find this number hard to believe. Even so, you can have just as much fun without breaking the bank.

Dress and jewelry These items are typically the most expensive, but it doesn't have to be that way. Create a realistic budget for how much you want to spend, and subtract what you'd like to spend on the dress, jewelry, shoes, hair and makeup. Find ways to save beyond what you've budgeted for. Ideas include purchasing a used bridesmaid or prom dress on eBay or at a consignment shop, borrowing a dress from an older sibling or friend, or renting a formal gown at a rental shop. For hair and makeup, either style your own, have a friend do yours and you do hers, or check out a local cosmetology school.  Check online for jewelry to find great deals and to see what's in style for spring. A few of our favorite things - Springtime! will help you find a necklace to match your dress and personal style.

The dinner USA Today found that the average prom dinner is about $75 per couple. How about cooking a romantic dinner for two instead of dining out?  On prom night, restaurants are super busy, meaning you won't get that special, one-on-one attention with your date. An at-home date allows you to enjoy each other's company in private and can save you up to $50 in dinner expenses. Ideas for romantic dinners you can cook include  - for example - lightly seasoned grilled steak, twice baked potatoes, roasted asparagus with garlic, and creamy cheesecake or decadent brownies for dessert.

The flowers normally range from $20 up to $50, depending on the type of flower and corsage you choose. This is certainly one way you can save. Head to your local grocery store and check out their floral department, then make your own corsages and boutonnieres.Consider picking your own flowers and making the corsages and boutonnieres with a group of friends. This method is both free and fun!

The ride Who says you need to ride to prom in a limo? In fact, limos are almost considered a thing of the past. Considering they cost no less than $300 for the night, not including the tip, this is a good thing.  Rent out a party bus for you and your friends, call a cab, ask an older sibling or friend to be your chauffeur for the night, or take your own car.

Most importantly - have fun! You're not going to remember how much you spent on your dress or if your corsage was hand-made or store-bought.  Instead you will remember is how much fun you had, who you spent your evening with and the laughter that was shared.

About the Author: Sarah Brooks is a freelance writer living in Glendale, AZ. She writes on personal finances, saving money, small businesses and travel.