💸 Who Pays for What at Prom? | Midwest Etiquette Edition 🎓🌽

Prom is one of the most exciting nights of high school—but in all honesty – it can also get expensive. Between the dress, accessories, beauty prep, tux rentals, tickets, transportation, flowers, dinner, and more, it is only natural to wonder: Who’s actually supposed to pay for what?

Midwest teens, we’ve got your back. While every couple, friend group, or solo attendee may do things a little differently, there are some traditional expectations and modern updates to keep in mind. Here’s the ultimate breakdown of prom costs and who typically covers what—Midwest etiquette edition!

**These are just some of our ideas & suggestions. Make sure you have an open & honest conversation with your parents, your date & their parents to make sure that everyone is on the same page so that you do not have an awkward moment in the spring!** 

🎟️ PROM TICKETS

Traditional Rule: Whoever does the inviting usually buys both tickets.

Modern Take: Split it 50/50—especially if you're going as friends or agreed to go together.

Midwest Etiquette Tip: If you’re going to prom as a couple, it is super normal to offer to split or cover your own ticket. 

👗 THE DRESS / 👔 THE SUIT

Who Pays: You (and/or your parents). Each person is traditionally responsible for their own outfit. Whether it’s a dress, a suit, or something in between, the cost typically falls to the individual (or their family). 

Midwest Tip: Budget smart—Make sure you & your parents have talked numbers before walking into XO by Sophia’s. Do not forget to check out their insta to see if they are having any fun specials or deals! 

Bonus Tip: If you want to make sure you have a little extra cash for the weekend, start to save a little each week starting after homecoming and by Spring, you will have a nice little collection to use! 

🌹 CORSAGE & BOUTONNIÈRE

Traditional Rule:

• The person wearing the tux gets the corsage.

• The person wearing the dress gets the boutonnière. 

Modern Update: Talk about it ahead of time. Some couples split the cost or go together to pick them out. Some florists will run specials for prom season so make sure to do some local research before you go shopping! 

Etiquette Tip: If someone surprises you with flowers—say thank you, take a cute photo, and appreciate the gesture. 🌸

🍽️ DINNER

Traditional Rule: The guy pays.

Modern Reality: Whoever suggests going out to dinner (fancy, relaxed, or drive thru) should be ready to cover it—or everyone can split the bill. 

Group Plan? If you're going in a group, make a reservation early and agree on how to split the check. Make sure to inform your service staff of the payment plan when you arrive so that they are not surprised and know what to do when the time comes to settle up. 

Midwest Tip: It's polite to offer to chip in, even if someone offers to pay. 

**Even if it is just you & your date, make sure you make a reservation - it is just polite & the last thing you want is to have to wait and then be rushed to get to Prom.**

🚗 TRANSPORTATION

Options: Limo, party bus, parent drop-off, or driving yourself

Who Pays: Depends on the plan

• Limo or party bus? Everyone using it should split the cost evenly. Plain & Simple! 

• Parent drop-off or personal car? Free! But always make sure to offer gas money if a friend is driving. Again - BE POLITE! 

• Driving you & Your date: Fun! Make a high energy playlist (add your favs + their favs) & PLEASEEEE clean out the car - the last thing your date wants is to get into a dirty car when they have spent all day getting nice and pretty! 

• Midwest Tip: Don’t forget to say thanks to any parents or friend who help with rides—Midwest Niceness goes a long way!

📸 PHOTOS

Who Pays: Usually free unless hiring a professional photographer

• If you book a professional photographer for your group, split the cost evenly. But make sure everyone in the group knows this before the day of. 

• Taking pics at the park, barn, or backyard? Totally free—and totally iconic. Make sure you are allowed on the property first and make sure you have enough time. 

Midwest Tip: Bring someone’s mom or dad—they always get the best candids. 

If going somewhere just you and your date (or just the group) bring a tripod & remote! That why you can get some group shots & some fun candids! 

🎉 AFTER-PARTIES

Who Pays: If someone is hosting, bring something, ask the theme of the party or if they’d like something specific. A fun, bite size dessert or a variety pack of soda is always a crowd pleaser! 

Midwest Tip: Don’t show up empty-handed—NEVER! Bonus, if you stay behind to help clean up! 

Bonus: If they do not want you to bring anything tangible - bring some cash to help pay for everything they purchased for the party or stay after & help clean! Another set of hands is always appreciated! Or grab a bag of ice on the way - ice is always needed! 

💡 Final Tips for Prom Money Etiquette

• Talk it out ahead of time. Avoid awkwardness by planning early.

• Be honest about your budget. You can have an amazing prom without overspending.

• Don’t assume. Just because someone invited you doesn’t mean they’re paying for everything.

• Kindness matters. Whether you’re going as friends or a couple, show appreciation and respect each other’s efforts.

• Speak up: If you are going with a large group and plans start going in a route you are not financially or mentally ok with - SPEAK UP! Be honest about your feelings & thoughts! 

Remember: There’s no one right way to do prom. The best plan is the one where everyone feels comfortable, respected, and included. That’s the real Midwest Niceness . 💛🌽

SHOP PROM AT XO