The prom can be one of the most important events in your high school experience — a special night to look forward to for months beforehand. For some people, though, the prom can seem like just another reason to worry and feel stressed out. Even people who are looking forward to it can feel nervous about things they’ve heard.

Here are some strategies for overcoming prom pressure.

Your Money

With a little bit of planning and creativity, the prom doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Here are a few less expensive options:

? Try renting tuxedos or dresses or paying for them in installments if you don’t want to blow a wad of cash.

? Shop online or at thrift stores to get style on the cheap.

? Think about borrowing clothes from older siblings or cousins.

? If you can’t afford a trip to a beauty salon, team up with a friend to be each other’s stylists. Treat yourselves to some new beauty supplies, then spend the afternoon getting ready.

? Instead of an expensive restaurant, opt for a romantic picnic dinner in the park or meet up at a friend’s place for some home cooking.

If you’re going with a date, talk beforehand about what’s important to both of you. That way you’ll have some idea of where you should spend your money. And guys shouldn’t feel pressure to pay for everything. Lots of girls prefer to share the expenses and have some choice in what the plans are.