Prom is a traditional dance for juniors and seniors that is an often highly anticipated tradition. Many Chamblee students have had quite the experience planning their prom, especially activities before and after the dance.

“I feel like the build up to prom is the best part of prom because getting ready and taking pictures is quite sweet,” said Hanna Lin (‘24).

One part of getting ready is finding an outfit to wear.

“I looked up prom dresses online. Then, I was just scrolling through TikTok and I saw a dress I really liked. So, I got that one,” said Lin.

While some students wear dresses, others have to go tuxedo or suit shopping.

“I went tuxedo shopping this weekend, and I’m going to be wearing a tuxedo with a bow tie to match my girlfriend’s dress, which is very stunning,” said Luke Simonsen (‘25).

There is also the choice of getting a date for prom.

“I’m going with Mina. We met each other through water polo, and now we’re dating,” said Cubi Nguyen (‘25).

Once a group is made, prom groups must find a place to meet and prepare for the actual dance.

“We’re planning on doing flowers, so making bouquets and stuff, and getting ready together is the best part,” said Lin.

Attendees also usually find a restaurant to eat at beforehand.

“It’s called Pacific Rim Bistro, and it’s basically known for its sushi. We chose this because a majority of the people going are Asian, and we all like sushi. So we thought it would be a good choice,” said Nguyen.

Some restaurants also pose as great places to take pictures.

“We’re going to take pictures around the Botanical Gardens, which is going to be nice. It’s really pretty around there, and everyone wants to see the flowers. A bonus is it also has an option where we can get something to eat,” said Simonsen.

The day of prom typically ends up being long, between getting ready and the actual dance.

“I plan to wake up and do my hair. Then, we are going to my friend’s grandmother’s house because it is really pretty, and after, we will go get hibachi,” said McKenna Smith (‘25).

Some Chamblee students’ plans are as follows:

“We’re first taking pictures at the Swan House, which is in the Atlanta Historical Center, and we’re going to lounge about in the downtown Atlanta area and visit our siblings at Georgia Tech. Then, we’re going to go to dinner, then prom, and then sleepover,” said Lin.

“Me and a group of friends are going to go take pictures at a museum that’s kind of near the College Football Hall of Fame, and then we’re going to eat at a restaurant. Finally, we’re going to carpool to the Hall of Fame because parking is expensive,” said Nguyen.

Finally, there is an option to hang out after the dance.

“I think we might go to someone’s house or maybe a little after-party,” said Nguyen. “Then, we will just hang around for a bit.”