Prom season is approaching.

Six Bluffton businesses have partnered to encourage area youth to shop local for all of their prom needs by using an Ultimate Prom Pass.

The idea of the “prom pass” originated from a conversation between two friends, Rachel Davis, owner of Studio Silhouette, and Joanna Gratz, a Compassionate Entrepreneur with Trades of Hope.

“We originally were talking about how the two of us could partner so high school girls could get their prom dress and jewelry in one stop,” said Gratz.

“But as we were chatting, we quickly realized, guys and girls could actually get everything done right here in Bluffton. So, the idea just snowballed from there.”

“Bluffton is such a great town and everyone has been really supportive of the idea,” said Davis, who also offers tuxedo rentals and formalwear alterations, in addition to her dress boutique.

“It’s pretty unique to be able to provide all of the services needed for prom in a town the size of ours. When we’re able to do that while encouraging the support of local businesses, it’s a win-win for everyone,” she said.

Students can start a pass at any of these participating businesses:
• Bluffton Barbers, 103 N. Main St.
• Spectrum Salon, 442 N. Main St.
• Town and Country Flowers, 124 N. Main St.
• Polished, 417 N. Main St.
• Studio Silhouette, 103 N. Main St.
• Trades of Hope, contact Joanna Gratz at 419-236-3137 

Any purchase qualifies participants to earn a stamp from that business. Once the participant earns at least three stamps, the student is entered to win a $30 gift certificate from the participating business of the student’s choice.

The passes will be honored Saturday, March 11, through Saturday, May 20, and a winner will be drawn and notified on Monday, May 22.