Teens

DIY Prom Flowers

May 29, 2025

$1-50

Byline

Kelsey McEuen, Director/President, Glendale (Ore.) Community Library

High school prom goers can cut on costs and make their own corsage and/or boutonnière at the library — all supplies provided.

Advanced Planning

The goal was to provide as many corsages and boutonnières as possible for local high school students attending prom and inspire them to be creative. Planning started one month before the event by connecting with community members via Facebook groups asking for flower donations. We shared the request and the event multiple times in the weeks leading up to the event.

We split the program into two days (2-3 hours each) to allow for more teens to participate outside of their other activities.

Marketing

We made multiple Facebook posts in community groups and on Instagram. We asked the high school Associated Student Body to announce the program and share it on their platforms. We also hung paper fliers at the high school. We were very successful with marketing.

Budgeting

We ordered $23 in supplies, including two dozen pearl corsage bracelets and a pack of wire floral tape and boutonnière pins. Community members donated all of our flowers, most from their gardens, and some were purchased.

Day-of-event Activity

Flowers were dropped off on the morning of the program. We serve a population of under 1,000, so two staff members were helpful to cover the desk and for when attendees needed support with their corsage/boutonnière. The only unexpected challenge was that some patrons needed more help to complete theirs.

We sent teens home with a wet paper towel in a solo cup and advised that they keep their flowers in the fridge so they stay fresh for prom.