Over the years, Homecoming has upheld an expensive reputation. With many friend groups wanting to go all out for the big night by renting out $100 party buses, or having a fancy dinner. However, the lavish reputation the event holds often discourages students from wanting to participate. 

It’s no surprise that friend groups want to arrive in DC on a party bus; however, it’s expected that everyone on the bus pays around $250 just to save a seat. That’s excluding the price of beverages and refreshments brought onto the bus. 

It can be hard to find affordable plans for the big day. Especially with the false narrative that the event must be expensive. However, there are some aspects that can be cut down in cost. 

Over the years, dresses have skyrocketed in price. During my freshman year, purchasing a dress wasn’t as expensive as it is right now. Before, going to the mall and finding a nice, cute dress for $40 was reasonable. Now, it seems as if the only options for cheaper dresses aren’t as cute or trendy as the expensive ones.

Thanks to second-hand websites such as Depop or Poshmark, those same expensive dresses from trendy brands such as Beginning Boutique are accessible at a much cheaper price tag. Instead of caving on the $100 dress that will only be worn once, the same one can be found on a second-hand website. 

Before, I used to spend hundreds of dollars on a dress, shoes and accessories for the big day. My sophomore year, I was convinced I needed to pay the $120 price tag on a basic dress I would only wear once. But in my senior year, I discovered the joy that is Poshmark, helping me save hundreds of dollars but still ending up with the perfect dress. 

Many people I know have spent so much on bouquets, corsages and boutonnieres for the big day. Instead of spending so much on flowers that won’t even last long, make the same florals at home. 

Bouquet making with friends or solo has always been popular. However, it’s popular for a reason. It’s a great way to cut costs, but it’s also a bonding activity and creates long-lasting memories that florals from a florist cannot recreate. 

With all of this said, Homecoming can still be fun, but done cheaply and with higher accessibility. It isn’t absolutely necessary to have the most extravagant outfit when it would only be worn once, or spend so much on things like flowers and party buses. Cutting down on costs won’t take away from the fun of the experience. Homecoming should be a fun event for everyone, no matter how much you spend.