There’s so much to do before Homecoming and so little time. In 10 days, dresses need to be bought, reservations need to be made and the corsages and boutonnieres need to be designed and picked up. Not to mention the cost to buy all of these things. And for what? Homecoming at the price of Prom?

All the money that could be saved for future expenses is spent on a dance that lasts a few hours, makeup and hair that will be washed off and rinsed by the end of the night and fancy flowers that will only be worn once. So here’s a few money saving tips: Ladies, rent or borrow a dress or buy a cheap one. Have a friend or family member that can do makeup, hair and nails help out.Instead of wearing expensive heels that will come off as soon as group pictures are over, wear comfortable shoes in and reuse shoes from previous dances.

“[As a parent,] these tips are great for saving time and money when girls do their own hair and makeup. It also makes it easier when prom comes around, and you have all this money to spend on a more expensive dress,” teacher Michelle Jurcenko said.

Gentlemen, talk to friends about previous homecoming outfits, as they might have the color shirt or tie in need. This will leave leftover money after buying one or two dance tickets.

“Last year for homecoming I asked my friend for a tie to match my date’s dress, and they had it. It saved me from purchasing a new one,” senior Brandon Bishop said.

For both genders, going out for dinner can be costly depending on what restaurant the group chooses, not including transportation money. Rather than trying to make reservations, have a few parents from the homecoming group chip in to make an inexpensive and delicious feast for the party. Each family can bring something whether it’s desserts, salads, appetizers or even a main dish. It’s a great way to save money and fill up before the dance. Seconds are also included in home cooked meals.

Corsages and boutonnieres can be expensive if bought from the wrong place. This year, try Jewel Osco, Target or Kar-Free Flowers located in Sycamore for cheap, but cute, corsages and boutonnieres.

“I tried these tips at my sophomore homecoming and saved so much more money than I did at my freshman year homecoming,” junior Ellie Dunn said.

Make this year’s Homecoming fun and affordable without going broke.