Green Acres Mall brought together local students, families and retailers for its first-ever Prom Event on April 25, transforming the shopping center into a celebration of prom season with fashion, music and community engagement.
The afternoon event featured a live runway show showcasing prom styles from Windsor and Raphael, with student models from the Valley Stream Central High School District presenting a variety of formal looks, including gowns and modern suiting options.
The Wardrobe Therapist served as the emcee and stylist for the event, guiding students through the runway presentations and offering fashion commentary throughout the show.
“Prom season is a major milestone for students and an important shopping season for many of our retailers,” Jill Bromberg, community relations manager at Green Acres, said. “It’s a time when families come together to prepare for a memorable occasion, and Green Acres wants to be part of that experience. Events like this also allow us to connect with students in a more personal and engaging way. We want local families to see Green Acres not just as a place to shop, but as a community destination that celebrates important life moments alongside them.”
Community collaboration played a significant role in organizing the event. After discussions with local parents and community members, one Valley Stream South High School parent helped coordinate student participation across the district’s high schools.
“The student models were local high school students who were excited to participate and represent their schools,” Bromberg said. “Their energy and confidence truly brought the runway to life and made the event feel authentic and community driven.”
In addition to the fashion show, guests were treated to music from a DJ, refreshments and giveaways throughout the afternoon. Black Pearl Bubble Tea and Granny’s Table provided treats for attendees, while the first 50 guests received complimentary Prom Survival Kits filled with prom-night essentials. Raphael also distributed free bow ties to the first 100 attendees.
The event concluded with raffle giveaways for a free dress from Windsor and a free suit from Raphael. One of the student models won the dress raffle after previously planning to purchase the same gown she had modeled during the show, a moment organizers said reflected the excitement and energy of the day.
“More than anything, we wanted students to feel celebrated, confident and connected to their community,” Bromberg said. “Prom is an important milestone, and we hoped the event would help students feel excited and supported as they prepared for that special night.”
Bromberg said the positive response from students, families and shoppers reinforced Green Acres’ broader goal of positioning the mall as more than a retail destination. In addition to hosting shopping and seasonal events, the mall has continued expanding partnerships with local schools, PTAs and community organizations through initiatives such as School Cents and other family-focused programs.
The success of the Prom Event has opened the door for similar community-centered programs in the future, with plans to continue building relationships with local schools, businesses and families through events that bring residents together beyond just shopping experiences.
