Pre-Prom Party: Flowers 'N' Ferns to Host Event for Burke-Area Students

Local florist Flowers 'N' Ferns will host a pre-prom party starting Thursday for Burke high school seniors looking to buy last-minute prom accessories.

This will be the second time the store, which is located at 9562 Old Keene Mill Road in Burke Town Plaza, has tried to host a prom party, said owner Karen Lynn Fountain. The first time was interrupted by bad weather. This year, Fountain is hoping the party will be a success.

"We like to kick it up a notch during prom season and have fun with it," said Fountain.

Fountain hopes that attitude and enthusiasm for prom will incentivize students to stop by and check out the store's "prom bar," which will have bracelets, ribbons, and flower hair accessories in addition to the traditional corsages and  boutonnieres. Students will listen to music and enjoy complimentary snacks while they shop during the party.

The intent behind the pre-prom party is to give students the opportunity to accentuate and personalize their prom dresses and tuxedos for prom without breaking the bank. The average corsage from Flowers 'N' Ferns will cost around $25. A boutonniere is about $12-$15.

Fountain said the prom bar will feature items in a variety of colors and cater to boys as well, not just the girls.

Rather than going the traditional route with a rose or carnation, guys can opt for using orchids or stephanotis in their boutonnieres. Rather than using pins, wires or glue, Fountain said boutonnieres can be created using magnet sticks. She will also encourage students to consider using orchids for their corsages rather than the traditional carnation flower.

Students are encouraged to come to the party with at least the specific color of the dress or tuxedo they plan to wear so that employees can help students use the correct colors in their accessories.

Although Fountain said students can come in with photos of their dresses, she warned that the color of the material will look different in the picture compared to the actual color. She suggested students bring their prom outfit with them to the party or swatches of the fabric, if possible.

The party dates are Thursday, May 23 and Friday, May 24 from 3-6 p.m. and Saturday, May 25 from noon-5 p.m.

Students who are unable to attend one of the party days should stop by the store on May 28 or May 29 and Fountain and her employees will do what they can to accommodate an order.