Underclassmen across the country come together on a flamboyant memorable night to continue a centuries-old promenade dance tradition that includes months of preparation, thousands of dollars in dazzling dresses, tuxedos, limos, high-end dinners, and the like.
Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 and the second year of derailment of the long-standing rite, many schools have abandoned the mission of organizing a fun night of glitz and glamor that high schoolers longed for year-round.
Except for a group of passionate mothers who insisted on making the situation better by convening seniors before going on their way into their future.
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Stephanie Pearle said that when the schools in Cobb County canceled their proms, she and seven other mothers from Pope High School drew up a six-week plan to ensure seniors could still see an unofficial prom. “It was like planning a wedding … everything from lights to food, decorations, security to volunteers.”
The parents rented Ivy Hall in Roswell and sold tickets to cover the cost of the May 7th event. Most of the event took place outdoors under the stars.
Welcome sign greets attendees of the prom at Ivy Hall.
The mother committee has set up a page on Facebook for the 2021 papal class to coordinate details. The event consisted of several components, including a DJ, photographer, decorations bought from Amazon, and parents who volunteered to bring lights and the like. “I did a full SignUpGenius and we got volunteers to help out on the prom night,” Pearle said.
“It is amazing how much cooperation we have received from all parents, regardless of whether they baked or volunteered [or otherwise] assures that this night happened. “
The tables were filled with desserts from Nothing Bundt Cakes and homemade pastries.
What about the crowning king and queen you might be wondering? Pearle was thrilled to share: “We got the kids nominated. We cut up pieces of paper and decorated a shoebox. Upon arrival, students had to vote and check in. The queen received a crown and the king received a hat that said “King”, ”she said.
“We had a beautiful, decorated display table with desserts from Nothing Bundt Cakes and Parents who baked individually wrapped desserts.” She added that Ivy Hall served mocktails like margaritas and Shirley Temples – without alcohol, of course.
Tables have been set up in front of Ivy Hall as the outdoor area is considered safer for pandemic parties.
Unlike traditional high school graduations previously held at places like the Fox Theater, students seemed to stick around for this prom the whole time instead of leaving after a short while as in the past, Pearle noted.
In contrast to typical senior balls, juniors and other outsiders were also allowed to participate. A prom photo shooting area has been set up in Ivy Hall. The mothers also installed a photo booth for more open shots.
“We didn’t want to make any money with it. We wanted to cover the costs, ”she added. “The children were so grateful; the parents were grateful. We had the whole night, tuxedos, limousines that drive up to the left and right and drop children …
Evan Sommer and Rebecca Weiss, both Jews, pose at the prom.
The prom drew 278 students with optional masks after Governor Brian Kemp recently lifted the health restriction.
Prom king nominee Noah Walter, who is Jewish, said the mothers did a great job. He and his friends were disappointed with the prospect of ending the year without a prom. “We were surprised. We had a great time and luckily it was a good normal ending to a [terrible] Year.”
Pearle’s daughter Rachel admitted it was her first prom since the junior prom was also canceled last year. “The highlight was being able to walk. It was very different from what we expected and even better.