<p>Son(s) bought their tuxedo’s online from ebay. Middle son is now a college junior and still uses it several (4+) times a year. The total cost for tux, shirt, cuff links, tie and cumberbun (sp) was under $100 including shipping, probably less since he purchased his sophomore year in high school. So 6 years of use, so far. It was altered originally which was covered in the purchase so when we let out the hem, (he grew) the $7 alteration charge plus the dry cleaning is his only annual expense. He has nice dress shoes (Ross Dress for Less) he uses with the tux and his suits (Lands End On the Counter sale- free alterations as well!</p>
<p>Typically they would split the costs of the tickets with their date and then also split the cost of the meal before-hand at a very reasonably priced eatery. They would pay for the flowers and they always carpooled together with their friends that had cars. Many of the parents hosted after-prom parties that were mostly potluck and one of the dads was the “designated professional photographer” - his hobby so we always had nice pictures for just the cost of the film and paper.</p>
<p>So sons’ expenses where the original tux and shoe investment 6 years ago, half the ticket, meal and flowers- all usually under $50. A little less was spent on homecoming (cheaper tickets) and winter formal.</p>
<p>My daughters spent about the same amount as that their dresses were usually in the $20 range (Ross, Marshall’s or TJ Maxx on clearance), same with shoes and purse and maybe a new nailpolish. So splitting a meal, flowers and the tickets again put them in the under $50 category. They always did their own hair and makeup and usually had their girlfriends over ahead of time to all do each others. I think that might be some of the best moments we had regarding prom, homecoming, winter formals!!</p>
<p>Since sons were football players, daughters also athletes and cheerleaders they always had a built-in base of friends to share expenses with. Daughters on a few occasions swapped dresses with friends to keep the costs even lower. They all have great memories and I have some of my best pictures from those times.</p>
<p>Middle daughter is graduating college in about 5 weeks and she is wearing one of those dresses under her cap and gown!! She was home for spring break and picked it up so she could wear it to the after grad parties! Still fits into it, she was happier about that then anything!!</p>
<p>She did manage to squeak a new purse out of it but that I could swing! Her cap and gown is costing more than that (she is paying for that) so I was happy to pay.</p>
<p>So no, we as a family (5 kiddos) have not over indulged for prom expenses money-wise but have put forth a lot of time and energy to make the occasions very memorable. </p>
<p>Kat</p>