Patch Picks: Top 5 Prom Picks

"Prom" is a shortened form of the word promenade; in partner dancing, a type of body positioning where the partners face in the same direction of travel, according to Wikipedia, and in this case, at the beginning of a formal event. The formal event we now call prom was first deemed “the prom” in the 1890s.

Proms started in the elite colleges of the Northeast as offspring from the debutante balls of the rich, and were reserved for the senior class. The dances weren't lavish. Students arrived in their Sunday best. The dances were strictly chaperoned.

The proms of today are lavish affairs that include hotel or resort ballrooms, live bands, glamorous clothing, and stretch limousines. Attendance at the school prom is popularly considered a rite of passage to adulthood.

And Northeast Cobb Patch offers five prom solutions to make sure your prom night is unforgettable.

Choosing five merchants to help in prom preparation wasn't easy. This is not a definitive list nor a comprehensive one. We welcome your recommendations in the Comment Box below.

1. You need a knock-out prom dress. Where's the best place to shop close to home? Word has it that the CC's of Rome Mega-Store located at 2710 Town Center Drive in Kennesaw has hundreds of prom dresses to choose from, including designer fashions. Hours: Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. and Sunday 12:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. Click here for a store coupon that will save you $20 on a $200 dress, or $30 on a $300 dress.

2. Short-n-sassy, hair extensions, or an up-do? No matter your style, you want your hair, nails, and make-up to look flawless on prom night. Three-13 Salon, Spa and Boutique located at 2663 Canton Road can do it all under one roof. You can schedule a 'spa party' of three or more friends to beautify for the prom! For your spa party, you will have use of the spa area and lounge. Snacks and beverages are provided, at no additional charge. They can even schedule limousine service for your prom. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 770-426-0313.

3. Whether with your date, or a group of friends, arriving to the prom in a limousine is fun! It was no easy task finding a local limousine company with a great reputation. Admiral Transportation, Inc. has 31 reviews on Kudzu.com with a 5-star rating. The best part? They have stretch limousines and sports utility vehicles to choose from. For more information or to reserve a limo, call 678-585-7935.

4. You and friends want a classy dinner before the prom, right? Aspens Signature Steaks located at 2942 Shallowford Road is just the place. Choose from Angus beef steak, salmon, pork tenderloin and chicken entrees. The restaurant has a cozy, lodge feel - you'll think that you're in Western ski country. For more information or to make a reservation, call 678-236-1400.

5. Every prom has an after-party! Why not Dave and Buster's located at 2215 D&B Drive? You and friends can reserve a section and have fun playing the arcade games, billiards, and shuffleboard. Get tickets from the games, win prizes! Hours: Sunday through Thursday 11:30 a.m. - midnight. Friday through Saturday 11:30 a.m. through 1 a.m.

Ask your church if a prom after-party is scheduled.

Where are you shopping for prom stuff? Tell us in the Comment Box.