BY MEGAN KROMER

As the homecoming week comes to its close, Mariemont students reflect on an exciting week of school spirit and float building, as they anticipate the dance. Planning for a dance can seem oddly stressful at times. But underclassmen don’t fret- juniors and seniors are here for the rescue, answering questions and offering advice to make the most of this upcoming dance. 

What do I wear? 

Picking out a cool dress, or a sharp blazer can be overwhelming given the amount of options out there. Senior Shannon Renner has a thoughtful tip on where to start. 

“I’m a loyal customer to Lulus and Tobi,” she said. “Sometimes it’s hard to find good dresses for cheap, especially online.” 

According to Renner, Lulus and Tobi are great places to start a scavenge for a good dress, by offering fairly cheap prices for good quality dresses. However, with possible senioritis coming into play, she claims to have purchased her dress just a week in advance. 

Junior Josie Holt agrees that Lulus is a quality option.

“Lulus online is good for dresses but take measurements before you buy,” she said.  

For students searching for blazers or sports jackets, Senior Wiley Lyons has just the right place.

“I get my jackets at Macy’s. Great quality for a great price,” he says. “I also get my ties and my shoes there.” 

As a seemingly all-inclusive store, Macy’s might just be the perfect place to look for a quality outfit.

What are the best places to go to dinner? 

For groups big or small, Renner has some enticing places to consider for a homecoming dinner. 

“I recommend the Dilly Deli or China Gourmet. Both are good places for big groups.” 

Renner believes that homecoming dinners don’t have to be at a fancy, expensive restaurant but somewhere you can go with a group of friends and have fun. 

“Definitely Bonefish, Olive Garden, and Buca Di Beppo,” says junior Josie Holt. She says these places offer good space and service for any sized dinner group.

Lyons added that Bravo! has a “great menu and a great venue for a big crowd,” from his experience there sophomore year. 

However, both seniors agree that an at-home dinner is the best option.

Renner said, “A dinner at home is the most fun. It’s relaxing and a lot easier to plan than a restaurant.” 

Many upperclassmen have chosen to have dinner at home because of how much easier it is to plan, and because a lot of times it’s easier to invite more people. 

Do I need a date? 

Many students assume you need a date just because it’s common at Mariemont, but that is not true.

 Renner believes that “The dance is more fun going with friends, unless you’re friends with who you asked.” 

Dates are not a requirement–just a fun aspect of homecoming that students enjoy. 

Wiley Lyons agreed: “Dates are not important but they add more fun to the dance.” 

Lyons has gone to past dances with a date, and believes it’s an enjoyable aspect of homecoming. 

“Dates are unnecessary unless you’re comfortable with that person,” Holt says. “But don’t feel pressured to have a date. Most people have more fun without them, anyway.”

You are not required to find a date.  Sometimes it’s more enjoyable just going with a group. But it is also a lot of fun thinking of creative ways to ask someone, and getting to know that person better by going with them. 

Any advice?

Most importantly, Mariemont upperclassmen recommend the underclassmen participate in the fun at homecoming. 

When asked of his expectations of the dance, Lyons said, “I expect a large group of students there enjoying the dance,” but that he’s “never seen every person dancing.” 

Holt added, “Don’t stress and don’t feel pressured to go. I personally haven’t gone to the past three dances because I got my experience the first time.” 

There will always be some students who believe that school dances just aren’t their thing, which is understandable. However, if you choose to go, just dance! It’s always important to have fun, dance, and spend time with your friends as much as you can before your highschool experience is over. 

Renner stated her advice concisely: “Just have fun and make the most of it.” 

She explains that it’s high school, no one cares what you’re doing as long as you’re having fun doing it. 

Overall, a big takeaway advice these seniors have is to participate and enjoy your time at the dance. At the end of the day, no one remembers what they wore, where they ate, or what their hair may have looked like. What’s important to remember is the excitement and enjoyment of creating some of the best memories with the people you’re with.