Upper Canada Mall is planning to transform itself into an "ultimate prom paradise" with the inaugural "Ready Set, Prom!"
The shopping complex host prom-approved retailers, with plenty on offer for those high school students getting ready for the big dance. The event will run March 2-3 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The mall has brought in event designer Rebecca Shan to curate the space for the event.
“I envisioned Ready, Set, Prom! to embody a celebration of achievement and happiness, where everyone embraces joy and optimism for what lies ahead,” Chan said. “This prom season is defined by vibrant energy, bright and vivid colours, fringe and metallics.”
The first-ever event will have purchase incentives, on-the-spot service bookings and prizing, according to the mall. There will also be a cotton candy be, a DJ from 1 to 3 p.m., makeup demos and more. The mall said it can be a good spot for prom, semiformal and Grade 8 graduation events.
Upper Canada Mall director and general manager Ryan Da Silva said the timing makes sense, and there are shoppers from more than 50 high schools in the surrounding area who could be interested.
The event "is serving up prom inspiration at the time when grads are planning their prom looks,” he said.
The mall is also teaming up with the York Region chapter of Girls Inc., a non-profit devoted to empowering girls. The organization will have a dedicated station accepting donations of prom dresses, in support of the annual prom drive in April. Donors will receive a $10 gift card to Upper Canada Mall as a thanks for donated dresses.
Fashion retailers participating include Caryl Baker Visage, Hillberg and Berk, Honey, Hudson's Bay, Laura, MAC Cosmetics, Melanie Lynn and Tip Top Tailors.
You can find more information at uppercanadamall.com/ready-set-prom.
