Step Back in Time at The Dressing Room’s
“Sixteen Candles” 80s-Themed Prom
By Lisa Patrick
The Ashland Beacon
Are you feeling nostalgic for your senior prom? Do you long to relive the fun and flair of the 80s? Well, get ready to throw on your best neon, tease your hair to new heights, and slip into your finest formalwear – The Dressing Room is throwing an unforgettable “Sixteen Candles” 80s-themed prom on Nov. 16 at The Winchester from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m.
B.J. Fraley, vice president of The Dressing Room’s board, explains that the event is “a throwback idea to the 1980s,” inspired by the classic John Hughes film Sixteen Candles. “It’s a reminder of simpler times before technology, where big hair and big attitudes ruled,” he says. The goal, according to Fraley, is to create “an event that is fun and open to as many people as we could reach,” and the 80s-themed prom promises just that – good vibes, a trip down memory lane, and plenty of opportunities for fun!
Founded in 1920, The Dressing Room is one of Ashland’s longest-running nonprofits, originally created to help struggling families with clothing needs. Over the years, it has grown into the area’s largest clothing closet, distributing over 6,000 bags of free clothing and more than $50,000 in financial assistance to individuals and families in need.
The organization also provides back-to-school supplies, professional attire for job seekers, and blankets for those facing hardship. In addition to all that, The Dressing Room runs the annual Prom-n-Aide program, which helps local high school students find the perfect formalwear, shoes, and accessories for their big night. As Fraley points out, “It’s important for us to help our community, and events like the prom make it all possible.”
This 80s-inspired fundraiser promises to be a blast, but it’s also designed to be affordable so everyone can get in on the fun. Tickets are just $30 for singles, which includes a drink voucher, or $50 for couples, which includes two drink vouchers. There will be a silent auction and a scavenger hunt game during the night, ensuring plenty of opportunities to win cool prizes and keep the fun going.
If you want to really get into the spirit, feel free to dress in full 80s attire – think bold colors, shoulder pads, and scrunchies – or come in whatever formalwear makes you feel comfortable. Who knows? You might even get crowned prom queen for your effort!
Before the prom begins, The Winchester will offer dinner reservations from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., with a portion of the sales donated to The Dressing Room. “This allows those who may be interested in attending the prom event to still support our mission,” Fraley adds.
For those who want to make a night of it, The Delta Hotel is offering a special room rate of $109 for prom attendees. That means you can enjoy a couple of drinks and not worry about finding a safe ride home.
“Many of us fondly remember our proms,” Fraley says, “and now, we can all share in the nostalgia.” The “Sixteen Candles” 80s-themed prom is not only a chance to relive the glory days of high school dances, but also an opportunity to support a great cause and give back to the community.
Tickets for the event can be purchased online at The Dressing Room's website. So, grab your friends, your favorite 80s outfit, and your dancing shoes – this is one prom you won’t want to miss!
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