BRUNSWICK COUNTY, N.C. — Prom is an iconic high school tradition where plenty of memories are made. However, it isn’t an option for some students, and unfortunately, that’s because of the cost. That’s why South Brunswick High School created Prom Closet. It’s a one-day event that dresses students head-to-toe, for prom, for free.
“It alleviates the financial burden for their parents to try to make that prom extra special,” Lee Thomas, the choral director for SBHS, says. “Especially right now during COVID with some folks not being able to work.”
Once a year, Thomas ditches being a choral director and takes on Fairy Godmother's role, helping students get ready for their own big ball. She says it’s thrilling to give the students their own Cinderella story.
She says, “I just love seeing them walk out, looking at the dresses, with a glow on their face, and the excitement that they’re able to take this home and wear it for prom.”
Even under a mask, it’s hard to contain those smiles.
“It’s really important because not everyone can afford a really nice dress, and a lot of them are ridiculously overpriced,” Stevie Varley, a Freshman at SBHS, says. “I just think it’s a really cool program where you can get something if you need it, and it’s super fun too.”
It’s more than just finding the perfect dress and shoes. Prom Closet also makes sure that you leave with everything fitting perfectly. Volunteers like Angela Parrow are on site to make alterations for free. She’s been doing it for years and says there’s nothing like seeing the girls happy with their dress.
“It is a lot of fun to see their faces because they found the dress that they really like, but it just needs one minor thing,” Parrow says. “I can stitch it or something like that, and then they go out super happy and excited.”
One of those girls is extra happy and excited. She didn’t just find a prom dress; she found a wedding dress.
Catherine Bannister became pregnant young and married days after having the baby, never having a formal reception. With the pandemic limiting sizes on gatherings, she says that they weren’t in a rush. Now, she has the perfect dress and shoes.
“The fact that we were here and were able to get this dress just means everything to me because now we get to have the moment that I’ve always wanted to it’s just, it’s awesome,” Bannister says. She’s excited to celebrate her marriage with her family, something she’s always dreamed of.
Now Catherine, and the rest of the students, can have their own big ball without the fear of anything turning into a pumpkin come midnight.
