Prom has been a highschool tradition for decades, as seen in television shows, movies and books. It’s shown as a special night that’s always perfect and romantic, but what’s the reality of the so-called “perfect” night, and how much work goes into making it the most perfect it can be?

Sydney Becker, a junior here at Rocklin High says that, “With prom in two months, I am very excited to get ready with my friends before the dance, do my hair and makeup, and get all dressed up.”

Prom this year takes place in downtown Sacramento, and goes from 6:00 PM to 10:30 PM, with dinner from 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM.

One of the biggest expectations for prom comes from what we see on-screen. When we see these movies and television shows, it shows almost no work going into it and a perfect night from start to finish. What they don’t show is how much heavy preparation it takes, from buying a dress, hair and makeup, shoes, a date, pictures, organizing a ride, and of course making sure the night is at perfect as it can be.

“It will not be like the movies, in real life everyone leaves after an hour.” says Sydney.

Another obstacle in the way of making prom the most memorable night, is that the SAT test is on prom day, quite inconveniently.

“Unfortunately, I am taking the SAT, which only leave me with four hours to get ready.” Becker states.

You would think that four hours is more than enough time to get ready, but for us girls, it’s a nearly month-long process. From going shopping for dresses, shoes, and jewelry, getting your nails done, and doing excessive hair and makeup the day of, four hours is nothing.

Hopefully, for the class of 2020, Prom is an unforgettable experience that they tell the stories of years from now.