Saving Money on Flowers for Prom

Prom is just around the corner, and if you're looking forward to all the fun, but dreading the expense, here are a few tips on saving money on prom flowers. If you're stressing on how to swing the ten to fifty dollar price tag on a corsage or boutonnière for your sweetie, here are five tips that will save you some green.

Just say no to flowers. If you and your date collectively agree to it, the best thing is to skip the flowers altogether. Warning, guys, most girls will not go for this. Showing off her corsage to her girlfriends is half the fun. But, if you are dating a pragmatist, then you might just be able to get by without the flora.

Use less expensive flowers. Carnations and other less expensive flowers (instead of roses) can be used in corsages and have stunning effects. Do not make any excuses (my frugal high school boyfriend told me he didn't think I was "a rose kind of girl"). Just present you lady with her corsage and tell her how beautiful she looks, and you'll be fine. Gals, tell him to hold still, pin his boutonnière on and get going (while many guys do like getting boutonnières, few stress over what flowers are in it).

Ask for discounts. Many local florists have coupons. Check your school newspapers and call the various florists around town. Shop around, and check out Internet florists. Just make sure the great deals you find on line are not eaten up by the delivery costs. Also, make sure you can get guaranteed delivery, or you may have to run out and buy replacement flowers for too much money anyway.

Make your own. Although this may seem kind of girly, guys, you can save a ton of money on making your own. Girls, have a boutonnière making party. Guys get the supplies and if you cannot craft, see if you can enlist you mom, an aunt, or anyone to help you get this right. Buy the flowers and supplies in bulk, and then split up the supplies with a group of friends. You can find instructions at www.save-on-crafts.com which also sells supplies (but most florists and craft stores also stock the necessary supplies).

Other Alternatives. An inexpensive an option is to buy silk flower corsages and boutonnière. Check out craft websites and on-line shops for authentic looking varieties. Do not get anything too gaudy or fake looking. Some sites to see are www.etsy.com or just type in 'silk flower corsage' or 'silk flower boutonnière'. Make sure you order these well in advance.

Whatever strategies you use, just focus on the fun and have a safe and happy Prom!