Cornerstone's Free Prom Boutique Starts Out In Style

VERNON, CT — Friday was the opening day for the Cornerstone Foundation's annual prom boutique and students were certainly ready to shop.

It's the ninth year of the event, which offers free prom attire and accessories to any student, free of charge.

"The Prom boutique event, is a fun occasion dedicated to making prom night unforgettable," organizers said. "At Cornerstone, we believe every student deserves to shine at their prom, and we are here to make that happen – free of charge."

Students were welcomed by more than 550 prom dresses, as well as several racks of suits and tuxedos. All range from gently used to brand new. Accessories include shoes, evening bags, and jewelry.

"It's not about money, it's about looking great at the prom," organizers said while emphasizing that the boutique is open to anyone who wants to make the trip, regardless of school or town.

Three students from Ellis Tech made the journey to Vernon from Killingly — Naomi Lynn Saunders, Lily Jackebowski and Elise Schlegel. Saunders was at the prom boutique a year ago for her junior event and liked it so much she brought Jackebowski and Schlegel with her this time for their senior prom.

How many dresses did they try on? Saunders said five and Jackebowski admitted, "I can't remember how many."

Schlegel just smiled and held up seven fingers.

"I was done first," she said with a smile. She had already changed back into her casual clothes while Saunders and Jackebowski, still in their dresses, debated over accessories.

Schlegel said they were culinary students at Ellis, which pointed to good taste in general.

The Prom Boutique was open until 7 p.m. Friday.

The rest of the schedule is:

• Saturday, March 30, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Friday, April 5 from 3 to 7 p.m.
• Saturday, April 13 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Friday, April 19 from 3 to 7 p.m.

The prom boutique has been set up at Cornerstone's facilities at 1C Prospect St. in the Rockville section of Vernon.

The boutique's history goes back to a day just shy of a decade ago, when students visited the Cornerstone Clothing Bank, Etc., in search of prom dresses.

"Recognizing the community's need, we were inspired to create an event where every student can experience the magic of prom without financial barriers," organizers said.

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Prom-goers can visit www.cornerstone-cares.org/events to register and for more information.