Finding a dress for prom suddenly got easier
Chelsea Raven and Megan Hales wearing dresses donated for Prom Nation at Bar 11 in Norwich. Picture: ANTONY KELLY - Credit: Archant
Wardrobe worries are over for Norfolk teenagers who want to go to their school prom this summer with a cut price outfit sale which is raising cash for charity too.
Prom Nation organiser Tracey McManus (left) showing some of the donated Prom Nation dresses, at Bar 11. Picture: ANTONY KELLY - Credit: Archant
An overheard conversation between a group of girls about how one couldn't afford to go to her prom prompted Tracey McManus to rethink her wardrobe.
'I really felt for the girl and I just wanted to take her shopping for a new frock there and then. I got home and looked in my wardrobe and thought 'I am never going to wear some of these dresses again, so why don't I do something with them' – and that's how Prom Nation was born,' says Tracey.
Since then more than 300 dresses have been donated by members of the public and stores such as Long Stratton-based Party and Prom and City Brides of Norwich.
A Pick a Dress event is set Thursday, April 12 at Bar 11 in Norwich when teenagers will be able to choose a dress and accessories for just a few pounds. Prices will range from £1 and every penny raised will go directly to Break, the Norfolk based regional charity which works to ensure vulnerable children, young people and families receive the support they need to flourish and grow.
Chelsea Raven and Megan Hales modelling for Prom Nation at Bar 11. Picture: ANTONY KELLY - Credit: Archant
'Every teenager should be able to go to prom if they want to,' says Tracey, adding that the Pick a Dress day will be an exclusive teen friendly day from 10am-5pm.
Entry is free and teens, and their friends and parents, can enjoy a free mini hair style by Katie or Katherine of Barry Alan hair Salon, make up by the Norwich School of Beauty and mini manicures by Best Beauty Norwich.
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There will be rails of dresses in all sizes, plenty of room to try them on, good bags – and Bar 11's amazing Hollywood selfie mirror.
Some of the dresses are worth hundreds of pounds says Tracey, and all will be at teen affordable prices, while raising money for Break.
People wishing to donate shoes, dresses and accessories can take them to their local Break Charity shop, labelling them Prom Nation. Or arrange a pick up or drop off with Tracey at www.facebook.com/promnationnorwich
