Schools

Prom Guide: Tips for the Gentlemen

How to impress your date and her parents.

Guys, there's more to being a gentleman than wearing a tie. Oh, a tie is a good start (an offbeat bow-tie is even better). But that's is hardly enough for prom night. Aside from always agreeing with your date's dad—just nod and say "yes sir"—here are some tips for being the perfect gentleman on prom night.

  • Knock—not text (!)—to let her know you've arrived: In-person communication may be falling by the wayside, but texting from the limo to let your date know you're outside waiting is the mark of a man who should be left waiting. No matter how many people you have to climb over, get up, get out and knock on her door. And smile.
  • Clean out your car: If you're not taking a limo, but are driving your car, your parents' cars or something better, make sure your ride is nice and clean.
  • Bring her mom a flower: This nice little gesture could get your date's curfew extended as her mom, overwhelmed by your sweetness, loosens the mommy reins for the night. But beyond selfish motivations, it's a nice, easy thing to do and is sure to mean a lot to the teary mother.
  • Don't ignore her for your friends: Prom night is about your friends and your date, but be sure that split prioritizes your date. There may be moments when you two are apart throughout the night, but don't vanish for long stretches.
  • Find something nice to say: We know: In Bambi, Thumper's dad said to hush if you have nothing nice to say. Well, it wasn't prom night! Maybe you don't like her dress, or her hair OR her makeup. Yikes. Well, gentlemen, you better find something nice to say.
  • Make sure you both have fun: Yes, you want your date to have a great night, but you should have one, too! It'll make your date feel better to see you having fun, so do. Be yourself.

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