I don’t know about you, but I’m absolutely obsessed with the hit Tv show, “Say Yes to the Dress” on TLC. I’ve already started planning which dress I’ll say “Yes” to, although I’m still at that stage where the closest I am to marriage is watching the Tv show, with ice cream in hand.
Well, TLC has just won my love all over again with their newly-annual event, Say Yes To The Prom!
Say Yes To The Prom! features over 2,500 prom dresses and accessories donated byJCPenney and given to deserving students in 5 major cities. The goal: to help build confidence, courage and self-image of these deserving young high schoolers all over the country in preparation for their prom night!
I had the chance to attend the New York event at the Palace Hotel (Gossip Girl!), which was hosted by TeenVogue, and I must say, it was a Diva’s paradise.
First, the forty high schoolers were assigned their own personal prom consultant and taken into fittings for dresses, shape-wear, accessories and shoes.
Next, they had the chance to get advice on accessories from a special expert — SYTTD Atlanta’s Monte Durham! And of course, I got to meet him too.
Next, the girls were brought into hair and makeup, and JCP Salon Director Nick Stenson gave me the inside scoop on how he, and the JCP stylists, helped each girl get their glam on.
Nick explained that “each girl has their own unique style, and we wanted to help them to display that. We’re here to give them the inspiration, but the final product is all their own.” Two styles I saw frequently– smokey eyes and tons of curls!
Lastly, the girls had a chance to meet New York City First Lady Chirlane McCray, get interviewed by New York TV, take a group picture with the Teen Vogue banner, and walk the final runway!
While walking around the event, something that stood out to me was how in awe all the girls were over the dresses and the scenery; all I could hear at the even was shrieks and squeals! I too was in awe because not only was this a “Cinderella” experience for the girls, it was a one-in-a-lifetime experience, with great people supporting it!
Overall, it was a beautiful event, for an even more beautiful cause! Watching the girls’ faces light up as they glammed-up was what made the event truly a success.
Note: This post is not sponsored. All photos are my own.
How do I get involved with helping in South Florida? As a social worker and aged prom particpant, I know this is an important time in any child’s life.
How do I donate gowns? Help on the day of choosing, shoot video on the day of the actual gown choosing and prom night? I shot still and video for CBS and NBC years ago, so I enjoy filming and editing.
West Palm Beach and Delray Beach Florida are in much need of enjoying this amazing experience as any where else in the country.
I cried and cried when I watched the wonderful and life-long prom experience of the Miami group. WoW,
what an amazing thing to be involved with, something the girls will remember for the rest of their lives.
Please tell me how I can help create this magical experience for girls in my neighborhood.
Hope I hear from you soon, as although I’m a busy BodyPsychologist, this has really caught my heart and soul.
Mya Breman, LCSW, LMT, CST-D. BpduPsychologist