Everyone knows that prom is the craziest event of the year for many upperclassmen. Three hours of dancing, showing off dresses, and feet getting sore from doing the Macarena make the entire night worth it for everyone, whether they have a date or not.
The scariest part of prom, though, is asking out your date. That’s why it’s better to take an older date to the dance—less stress and definitely easier. This year, traditions changed, and now there’s no age limit to who you can bring, promising unlimited fun. After all, the dating pool for many DHS students has become, well, not enough. So, after some research, here’s how to ask out that special, older person for April 11.
One thing to consider is making sure that the person you want to ask has things in common with you. If you’re friends with their child, that’s a good start. If their child is closer to you, there’s a good chance the older person will say yes to the poster you prepare.
Next, plan everything—literally everything—about your promposal. Check their Facebook, which everyone knows gets updated constantly, and talk to people they know to find out what they like. Engage in meaningful conversations with this parent, especially by paying attention to their interests. You might need to save up for supplies like gift cards or something to lift their spirits, since their kids, who are your age, have stopped with their efforts. Also, keep up with topics they’re interested in or speak about a lot, like taxes, weather, and their declining health.
“I asked them what their political opinions were, and then I handed them a ballot vote and asked if they’d go to prom with me,” said Kaylynn Sanford. But don’t overdo it—don’t let them think something’s off.
Once you have everything planned, put it into action. Text the adult you’re asking—preferably on an app that can’t be traced, as communicating with minors is illegal—and take them somewhere they’ll enjoy, like a discount store, a bar, or even just at their house. Whatever you choose, keep it private. Also, make sure your special person is dressed nicely—no work clothes or everyday attire. Then, ask the question.
As the days count down to the big event, remember to pay attention to your adult. Send texts like “I forgot. What time are we meeting?” or a thumbs-up emoji to mimic the typical parental reply once they send you a deep message.
Another point to make sure that you hit is to stay as uncoordinated with your date as possible until the very last second. This act alone is going to show them that you understand what they deal with every day, and you know how they are on a deeper level.
“I researched my own parents’ digital replies to determine how to talk to my woman with the swoon she needs,” said Ashley Kirstatter.
Overall, though, prom should be fun with your date, no matter how old and gross they are. Enjoy the entirety of the night that you get, but just make sure to at least drive your date back home before their curfew. Remember, they can’t be seen for too long with someone half their age; they need to be able to pay their bills and stay with their responsibilities.
