By Hannan Zeyde

As prom quickly approaches, Woodward Academy students are finalizing–or, in some cases, just beginning–preparations. This year’s final dance, which is themed as “Once Upon a Dream,” will take place on the Woodward campus on April 26, from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. From booking hair appointments and getting alterations done to planning out group or date activities, WA Upper School students explained how they get ready for the big day.

Simone Baldwin ’25 shared how she organized her prom preparations.  Planning ahead took the stress off her and helped her enjoy her last prom.

“I started early and made a spreadsheet of ideas and booked appointments a month in advance, and I got my prom dress made 2 months before prom,” Simone said. 

For every punctual prom-planner out there, however, there are also a few prom-goers still finalizing plans and sagging beneath the challenge of last minute dresses and appointments. With all the chaos, problems are bound to occur. Blaire Lee ’25 shared her dress mishap. 

“I still need to find a dress,” Blaire said. “I bought a dress, but it came in and wasn’t cute, so now I need to go in and find a dress.” 

In moments of prom desperation like this one, it is important that students like Blaire stay optimistic: it will all work out.

“I know I will find a dress I like,” Blaire said. “It is just kind of stressful at the moment.”

Still, despite all the stress, other students are keeping the excitement in the foreground. Izzy Adams ’25 is looking forward to the prom experience.

“Later next week I’m getting my hair done and my nails done, which I am really looking forward to,” Izzy said. “I also am going to be able to pick my dress up soon which is also exciting.”