A surge in homecoming proposals takes the world by storm
Homecoming proposals, similar to the trend of a “promposal”, has become a staple of high school culture, blowing up on social media. These proposals can range from a corny pun or a song lyric, to an elaborate production involving friends, family and sometimes the whole school. While these gestures are meant as romantic, they can sometimes cross into tacky territory.
These proposals can be romantic, whether it’s spelling out “HOCO?” in candles or creating a poster based on their favorite hobby or food. Many girls dream of being asked to homecoming, but what is this hype really all about? The thought and effort put into these big asks can be special, but where do we draw the line?
The increasingly extravagant proposals or corny posters can sometimes lead to some seriously cringe-worthy moments. The awkward side-hug and pictures and videos by Mom are actually the bane of my existence. With everyone trying to outdo each other, some students may resort to over-the-top displays that feel somewhat forced. Large public proposals can put unnecessary pressure on the recipient, causing embarrassment or anxiety. Needless to say the answer could be forced because of the attention put on that individual. The competitive nature of these proposals are meant to be intimate, but turn into a down right spectacle.Tacky homecoming proposals are a teenage girl’s worst nightmare. A huge public display in front of the whole school, and you are just supposed to say ‘no’? Those should be done in private, where the recipient has the chance to decline. Now, while homecoming proposals have the potential to be incredibly romantic, it’s important to think twice before asking your girlfriend using a sign that requests sexual favors, or says something that’s meant to be funny but is actually demeaning.
Elijah Burt ‘25 said “I think if [the proposal is] done properly, it can be cute, but a lot of the posters I’ve seen are cheesy. The best homecoming proposal I’ve seen was an inside joke, I think that’s cute.”
As these proposals continue to evolve with social media influence, it’s crucial to keep in mind the importance of intimacy and genuine connection over theatrics. While viral moments and extravagant displays may grab attention online, they don’t always pan out the way you think they will.
Grace Gulden ‘25 said “If it’s a friend, it’s cutesy. If it’s a significant other and you are making a big deal out of it, it’s tacky. I was asked this year, and I didn’t feel pressured to say yes because it was my friend. I have not seen a single homecoming poster I have liked, they all look so sad.”
While homecoming proposals have become a fun and creative tradition in school culture, it’s important to remember that the gesture doesn’t have to be a grand spectacle to be meaningful. At their best, they celebrate thoughtfulness, creativity and a personal connection between two people. However, when they turn into competition for attention or awkward performances, they can lose their charm, and place unnecessary pressure on both the asker and the recipient. Striking a balance between creativity and respect for boundaries is key, ensuring that the experience remains a positive memory rather than an uncomfortable ordeal.
