by: Jason Anderson

In the lead up to a once-in-a-lifetime event like your prom night, it can be easy to forget to organize something. The easiest way to prevent this is to plan ahead. Remember, the day of the prom will be very busy - get as much organized before the day as you possibly can!

Here are some of the things you should organize beforehand so you don't accidentally turn one of the greatest nights of your life into a disaster.

Check opening hours - make sure you know when shops, etc that you will have to visit on the day are open. More than one girl has gone to pick up her dress on the day of the prom, only to find that the shop doesn't open on a Saturday!

Research photographs - make sure you get a price list from the school before the night of the prom, so you know how much photos at the prom will cost (you can easily spend between $30 and $130 - even more). Check with the photographer before the night to find out what payment options are available - many will accept checks or credit cards, which is much safer than carrying cash.

Eat! - it seems like such a simple thing, but remember to eat a good breakfast and lunch on the day of the prom. You may be rushing around getting things ready, or feel like you can't eat, but you will need all the energy you can get for the big night!

Make a record - when making your appointments (hair, nails, make-up, restaurant, limousine, etc) be sure to make a note of the date and time of your call, and who you spoke to. Make sure you ring to confirm your appointments 2-3 weeks before the prom, just to be sure that there are no problems.

Prepare for your hair appointment - it may seem obvious, but it is easy to forget. Remember to wear a button down shirt when you have your hair done.

The right purse - you don't want to be carrying around a huge purse or handbag all night. Choose a small purse that is just big enough to hold lipstick, money, an extra pair of hose, a number of small safety pins, and possibly a camera.

Prom checks - while at the prom, take a bathroom break to do the following: 1) Refresh lipstick & powder (if needed); 2) Reapply body glitter (especially before a grand march); 3) Make sure everything is right with your dress; and 4) Hair check. But don't take too long to do all this - your date won't like to be kept waiting!

Have a great time - this is one of the biggest nights of your life, so make sure you relax and enjoy it! Once you are at the prom, there is no point in worrying about what you could or should have done. Simply make sure you have a great time