Prom night is a special memory-inspiring evening, and can often be an expensive one as well. Your prom experience doesn't have to be costly, though. You can still look great, have a wonderful time and save a bit of money when you follow these tips on how to plan a cheap prom.

The promise and excitement that is prom night shouldn't be diminished by wondering if you can even afford to go this year. Prom night will cost you some money, but it need not be a prohibitive amount. Think outside of the box to find some ways to lower your costs without detracting from the wonderful evening.

Prom night expenses can really add up, so first decide how much money you have to spend, and try to keep within your budget. Will Mom and Dad pitch in with a few dollars? Are you able to work an extra weekend or two? Or maybe you've already put away a few dollars in your savings account for just such an event?

Some expenses to think about and plan for in your budget are:

1. Flowers
2. Dinner
3. Attire
4. Limousine
5. Photos
6. Tickets to the prom
7. After-prom party expenses

Many stores and sites online offer prom gown specials.http://www.bargainpromdresses.com/ If you order online, be sure to order early so that if you are unhappy with the purchase you have time to return it and find another dress. J.C. Penny offers complete packages that include shoes, jewelry, handbags and gowns for $100-200.

To lower costs even more, try looking for a vintage dress at the local thrift or second-hand store. Closet Elite will rent you a dress and ship it right to your door, for half the price of purchasing one.

A tuxedo is an expensive proposition, even when you rent one. Oftentimes you will be able to find one at a thrift store or for sale on eBay.

Call the various tuxedo rental stores in your area to compare prices, and if a rental is out of your budget, find a nice pair of black dress slacks, wear a white cuffed shirt and add a bow tie for a put together look. If jackets are required, wear a nice dark suit with a cuffed shirt and bow tie.

Some limousine companies will run specials if you book them early. If you have a Captain Limousine company in your city, they offer a discount of $5 off per person if you sign a pledge stating that you will not drink or do drugs on prom night.

For a 32-passenger limo, that is a savings of $160. If you can't afford to rent transportation, see if Mom and Dad or an older sibling will loan you their car for the evening.

Prom night is a magical evening for which you will want to look and feel your best. Consider some cost-cutting ideas to look good and have fun without going broke.

This can relax some of the stress that the prom can cause, and you will be able to proud to know that you were able to plan this prom and save yourself some money.

• Introduction
• Step 1: Make a Budget
• Step 2: Look For Deals on Female Attire
• Step 3: Look For Deals on Male Attire
• Step 4: Find a Deal on Your Ride
• Conclusion