Have you ever heard the term prom proposal or promposal ? For those who follow foreign trends, especially from American teen films, this term may be familiar. However, for most young Indonesians, this tradition is still relatively new and unique. What exactly is a prom proposal, what is its history, and does it already exist in Indonesia?
Let's discuss it in a relaxed but informative style, because who knows, you might be the next person to go viral on TikTok because of your pitch!
What is a Prom Proposal?
A prom proposal is a moment when someone asks their friend, crush, or boyfriend/girlfriend to be their partner at a prom night or school farewell party. However, it is not just any invitation—proposals are usually done in a special, creative, and sometimes surprising way.
Imagine: you’re relaxing in class, then suddenly your friend comes in with a big poster that says “Will you go to prom with me?”, complete with flowers and cheers from your friends. Nervous? Definitely. Embarrassed? Maybe. But memorable? Definitely yes!
Is Promposal Always for Girls?
This is a frequently asked and important question. Traditionally, proposals are more often done by guys to girls. However, that doesn't mean it's a fixed rule. In this era of free expression, proposals can be done by anyone to anyone—as long as the intention is sincere and polite.
In fact, asking your crush out is fine, as long as you are sure enough that she won't reject you. Because, let's be honest, being rejected in public because of a proposal... can be a bitter and embarrassing experience. Therefore, first strengthen your heart and relationship before you make a surprise.
Where does it come from?
The promposal tradition originated in the United States and has been popular since the early 2000s. However, the basic idea has been around since prom night itself began to be known among American high school students in the early 20th century.
Initially, the promposal was not too exciting. But with the development of social media such as Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, many teenagers are competing to make the most creative promposals possible so they can go viral. Starting from romantic ones with candles and flowers, to funny ones like dressing up in strange costumes or carrying posters with witty sentences.
Is it available in Indonesia?
Although prom nights are not as common as in western countries, several private and international schools in Indonesia have started to adopt the concept. And automatically, the promposal tradition has also slowly entered.
In big cities like Jakarta, Surabaya, or Bandung, some teenagers have tried to make their own version of the proposal. Some invite through TikTok videos, some make small surprises at school.
However, promposal in Indonesia is still relatively rare and has not become a common culture. It could be because the prom itself has not become an official tradition in all schools, or because our culture is still a bit shy in expressing feelings openly.
Promotion Tips So It Doesn't Fail
If you're interested in trying a promo, there are a few things to consider:
- Get to know your target partner. Make sure he/she likes surprises and is not embarrassed by public things.
- Simple is better. No need to be fancy like in the movies, what matters is that it is sincere and meaningful.
- Have a plan B. If she says no, don't panic. Keep smiling, because your courage is still worthy of appreciation.
- Involve friends. They can help with documentation or lighten the mood.
- Practice your invitation words. Sometimes, one sweet sentence can be more effective than a thousand decorations.
The final word
Prom proposal may still sound foreign to some Indonesian students, but that doesn't mean it can't be tried. This culture does come from abroad, but its spirit is universal: inviting someone we like to celebrate a special moment together.
As long as it is done with good intentions, politely, and without forcing your will, a proposal can be a beautiful memory in school. Who knows, you might be the one who pioneers this trend in your environment.
And if you need creative ideas or want to know more about today's youth culture, you can check out various other inspirations on the ajakteman.com site .
So, are you ready to create your own version of a proposal?