PROM SAFETY

Wednesday, July 6, 2016

Mr. Burch understands that prom is one of the highlights of the high school experience. Whether you're going solo or with a date or group, trying new or different activities, or staying out late, being responsible is key for a safe and healthy prom night.

Let's take a look at a few tips for enjoying a healthy and safe prom.

Getting Ready:

  • Get in shape slowly and wisely. Eat healthy and be active.
  • Protect yourself from the harmful effects of UV rays. Avoid indoor and outdoor tanning, and use a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher.
  • Test all cosmetics and hair dyes before using them. Follow the directions and read any cautions and warnings on labels carefully.
  • Be stylish and safe by wearing comfortable shoes and attire to prevent injury.
  • Watch your budget. Have fun without spending a lot of money and causing unneeded stress. (Mr. Burch can help with this one!)

Getting Around:

  • Don't drink and drive.  Keep an eye on your date/driver to make sure they do not drink any alcohol.
  • Alcohol slows reaction time and impairs vision, clear thinking, judgment, and coordination.
  • There are more drunk drivers on the roads during the weekend. Keep a close eye on oncoming drivers, as impaired drivers tend to drive toward lights.
  • Know where you are going before prom night and have directions to those places.
  • After your red light turns green, wait a second before pulling into the intersection, just to be safe.
  • Drive on well lit roads, and carry a phone if possible.
  • Keep the radio volume turned low enough so your driver can concentrate on getting you to and from the fun.

Getting Down to the Fun

  • Make sure an adult will be home throughout the party and that no alcohol or other drugs will be permitted.
  • Parents need to stay visible during the party.
  • Contact the adults to verify the occasion and the time of the party.
  • Have the address and phone number of the party.
  • Arrange transportation beforehand. Assure your teen that you or a specified neighbor or friend can be called if a ride home is needed. 
  • Agree on times before the party starts.
  • Be awake when your teen gets home. It is not only a sure way of checking the time, it also gives your teen a chance to talk about the party.

These are just a few safety tips and suggestions to make sure your most memorable night is memorable for the right reason.  Have fun and stay safe!

TIPS FOR THE BEST PROM EVER 2013

Wednesday, July 6, 2016

Here at Mr. Burch Formal Wear, we've seen a few proms. Prom season is one of our favorite times of the year.  We stay busy keeping up with the latest fashions and really enjoy seeing new faces. After being in business almost 80 years, you pick up a few things. We'd like to share some of our favorite tips for prom.



Plan Ahead

Once you are certain you're attending prom, plan ahead. Be sure and reserve your tuxedo early. Try to get in to see us and get measured at least 2 weeks in advance. Every prom is scheduled between March and May. We serve a lot of high schools. You don't want to get caught at the last minute without the size or color you need. Planning isn't just for the tuxedo. There are almost 1,000 kids in the Junior and Senior class at Hoover High School. That's a lot of dinners for 40 square miles. Be sure and make your dinner reservation in advance as well.

Ask Your Date

"Gentlemen, be sure and ask your date what type of corsage she would like," says Greg from our Mountain Brook Store. Some ladies will prefer a wrist corsage because of a strapless dress. Instead of guessing, just ask her. If possible, you want to get a swatch of her dress as well. This will help you with trying to match your accessories.  "Cell phone photos can be very misleading. If you're trying to match, a swatch of material is best," says Greg.

Tuxedo Tips

Most young men don't normally wear a tuxedo so there are few things to keep in mind.  "Make sure you try everything on before you're ready to head to prom," advises Barbara at our Hoover location.  You already know to reserve early but be aware of hidden fees.  Don't get caught paying a rush fee because you didn't come in early or weren't paying attention.  Barbara says, "Your tuxedo coat is worn open so your vest and tie can show."  You'll be glad you got a swatch of your date's dress.  Also, remember to keep up with your coat.  With all the excitement and dancing, it's normal to remove your coat during the prom.  Just be sure to keep up with it so you can return it later. And most importantly, never pay full price for your rental.  Use the coupon below for $50 off or ask one of our employees about the referral program so you can get your tuxedo for free.