Published May 6, 2025
BY OLIVIA FORT
Prom season has arrived, and along with the excitement comes the process of planning this long-awaited event. For the Associated Student Body and Carmel High School’s Class of 2026 officers, organizing this year’s Golden Age Gala has been both a creative endeavor as well as a logistical challenge.
“It’s hard to plan something that you want everyone to like, as well as balancing the budget and ticket sales,” explains CHS junior class president Rainn Nachbar.
Planning for prom began last year under the leadership of the newly elected Class of 2026 president. After consulting with the graduating Class of 2024 last May, the student leadership class decided not to return to a Hornblower cruise ship in San Francisco Bay, due to student complaints about docking delays and a desire for someplace new.
Last year’s prom venue was the Long Branch Saloon and Farms in Half Moon Bay. photo by BROOKLYN CHAVEZ
Over the years, CHS prom locations have typically rotated between the cruise ship and other venues, such as the Long Branch Saloon and Farms in Half Moon Bay, which has hosted prom twice, as well as one-time locations like the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Levi’s Stadium and Gilroy Gardens.
“This is entirely a student-organized event,” says ASB adviser Aubrey Powers. “The ASB budget supports the planning, but it’s the junior class officers who take the lead, with guidance from senior class officers and social event commissioners.”
Instead, this year’s Golden Age Gala will be held May 10 at the Corinthian Grand Ballroom in San Jose, with an expected attendance of 340. The venue promises an elevated experience, reflecting the juniors’ vision for a more glamorous and formal event that offers students the chance to experience an elevated prom.
“The most exciting part about planning prom for me was going to visit the venue and starting to see our vision coming together in real life,” says junior class vice president Leah Sibley.
Managing the financial side of prom is especially challenging. Rather than working with a pre-set budget, ASB calculates the event’s total expenses like the venue, transportation and entertainment, then they set ticket prices accordingly. This year, expected costs came out to about $63,000.
Prom night brings students together in celebration, marking an unforgettable tradition of excitement. photo by BROOKLYN CHAVEZ
“Our goal is always to ensure anyone who wants to attend prom can do so,” explains Powers.
To break even with the budget, ticket prices started at $180 this year. ASB has hosted a free ticket raffle as well as provided financial aid for students to help pay for the tickets.
Beyond logistics, the team has prioritized creating a special atmosphere for attendees. From reception food at check-in to casino games for non-dancers, each detail is designed to enhance the evening’s experience. There is no dress code, and students are free to glam-up however they want.
“Kate Graham and I planned prom last year, and it was a super fun process but came with a lot of work,” says Julia Jackson, this year’s commissioner of social events alongside Graham, who has been supporting the juniors in planning the event.
With crystal chandeliers and a stunning Art Deco design, the Corinthian Grand Ballroom perfectly aligns with the Golden Gala theme. Meticulously planned, the event is set to leave a lasting impression on its attendees.
