Whether you’re ready to accept it or not, SubDeb is right around the corner. For some, the list of things to do is just too daunting to handle. But if you play your cards right and keep an open mind, you’ll be on your way to dancing the night away with your friends.

The first step is really optional, but don’t let that stop you from taking it. Choose and ask a date. It doesn’t have be your special someone; it’s just as cool to go with your friends. Get together with some of your friends and their dates, buy your tickets and just enjoy the night. Once you’ve got your squad ready, it’s time for the next step. Picking a dress can be the longest and most stressful parts of dances. Unfortunately Manhattan does have a limited amount of shops to choose from to find the perfect dress. But don’t let that discourage you from making the journey to local boutiques like Kieu’s, Dillard’s or even Francesca’s. If you still can’t find anything, you can always take the chance and order online. You’ll have plenty more options, different styles to look at and you may even find some sales.

Once you’ve decided on your dress, be sure to coordinate the colors with your date. The matching colors will ensure people know you two are a pair.

Lastly is to pick a dinner restaurant. This will be the place where you, your date and your squad can have your pre-party. Plus, with the actual dance going on until midnight, you’re going to want to fill up with some good food before you head out. Some popular places around town are Umi, the Taphouse and Olive Garden. If you’re not about that so-called “fine dining,” there’s no shame in hitting up Taco Bell for your dinner.

Once you’ve got your friends, your dress and your food, you’re ready to party. Let the stress of the day fade away and just have fun. In the end, what you wear or how much you spend doesn’t really matter. What counts is that you enjoy the time with your friends. And if you all look good while doing it, that’s just a bonus.