As homecoming gets closer, preparations for the dance begin. Outfits are bought, shoes are broken in, and hair appointments are made. However, one important aspect of homecoming everyone plans for is their date. To ask someone to go to homecoming with them, people usually do a homecoming proposal, something a lot of people look forward to and others loathe. But what is the public’s real opinion on homecoming proposals? Do they think they are tacky, or cute?
Planning the proposal is one of the hardest parts. Askers have to try and figure out if and when they should do the proposal, being sneaky so as not to ruin the surprise. However, this is incredibly hard. Sophomore Reese Marais got asked to homecoming, but stated that “The person who asked (me) was not a good secret keeper. I kinda knew it was coming, and it was pretty casual.” They also have to get flowers, make a poster, and get a gift, though that’s optional. To make it easier, askers often coordinate with one of the receiver’s friends. Sophomore McKenzie Johnston helped with Marais’s proposal, and said, “I planned for the proposal by coordinating with the one proposing, helping make the letters, planning where and when it would happen, and making sure he was ready on the day of the proposal.” Making sure the proposal is perfect is a hard task, but it can be accomplished if done well.
To create the perfect proposal, there are three parts. Johnston said that she thinks “the best way to propose for homecoming is to do it with a sign and flowers and make it connected to the person you are asking.” First, you need to plan the when and where. Usually, the asker will go to the receiver’s sports game or something similar and ask there. Otherwise, Marais said, “they could go to the person’s house and ask them, just something thoughtful and caring.” Next, they need to create a poster that is cute, colorful, and creative. Marais said that the poster “should focus on what the person likes and what their interests are, like if they play a sport.” For example, if the receiver plays tennis, the poster could say, “Got tired of playing singles? Play doubles at Hock with me!” Finally, the asker usually gives a gift. Generally, flowers are used, but sophomore Victoria Dyavgo stated, “no one would be mad if there’s also food”. Overall, the proposal “should be sweet, cute, and thoughtful”, according to Johnston.
To conclude, does the public think homecoming proposals are sweet or awkward? Everyone that was interviewed stated that they are cute. Having a good homecoming date and proposal is something most high schoolers strive for. However, Johnston made a very good point when she said, “they can be tacky if they don’t relate to the person or they are basic.” All in all, if you are creative, cute, and secretive, you can plan a great homecoming proposal.
