Say yes to the dress

If Macon didn't have a go-to prom dress shop before, it sure got the taste of having one on Saturday. The Samaritan Hospital Auxillary turned the United Methodist Church into a place to try on dresses, listen to music and get ready for the big event—prom.

The eighth annual formal dress and prom extravaganza helped raise money for Samaritan Auxillary scholarships. And the event offered more than just dresses. There were two runway shows and even vendors. According to Nancy Ronchetto, this was the first year vendors were invited to set up tables. The vendors showcased hair trends, makeup, jewelry, nails, tanning, flowers and limousines.

"I think the event is really neat," said Cathy Ricker. "It helps a girl who couldn't go before afford it. It's more feasible."

This event was started in 2006 by Tonia Hays' Girl Scout Troop. "We only had three girls and three mothers help put it together," said Hays. "And only about 50 dresses."

Things have definitely changed since then. At Saturday's event there were multiple helpers, and approximately 130 dresses to choose from.

"I think it's great," said Krystal Lester who is a fourth year attendee. "It's a lot easier to come here than drive to Columbia."

And the girls trying on dresses weren't the only ones having a good time. One of the auxillary members said, "Doesn't it make you want to go to prom again?" while hanging dresses back on the racks scattered around the room.