Not long ago, high school formal dances consisted only of the senior prom. Today, there are junior proms, freshman and sophomore semi-formals and even 8th-grade semi-formals, which can cost hundreds of dollars for dresses, flowers, limousines and tickets.
Unfortunately, tough economic times have rendered many parents and students unable to afford the cost of such extravagant affairs. Enfield resident Patti Magnuson feels no one should have to miss out on these activities due to cost restrictions.
A mother of four, Magnuson is organizing "Dress For Less," a way for teenage girls to acquire the formal attire they are seeking for such events, without the backbreaking expense.
"Parents have a hard enough time providing kids what they need, never mind a luxury," Magnuson said. "For some families, the cost of getting outfitted for even an 8th-grade semi-formal is prohibitive."
"Dress For Less" will take place Saturday, March 26 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Fellowship Hall at , 1295 Enfield St.
"I feel there is a need for this in Enfield and the surrounding area," Magnuson said. "Kids should be able to go to their proms without spending a fortune."
Magnuson is collecting donations of gently-used formal and semi-formal dresses, including bridesmaid and prom gowns. They will be sold for $27 apiece at "Dress For Less."
No profit will be made on the sale of the clothing. Each dress sold will include a voucher good for a boutonniere at and a $20 certificate toward dry cleaning at . Both businesses are located on Hazard Ave., just east of the Hazard Trade Mart Shops.
To donate a dress or for more information, contact Magnuson at (860) 836-5994, or via email at pjmtbib@hotmail.com.
