Great Gatsby Prom Theme: How To Throw A Roaring 20s Night To Remember
What if your prom could transport you back to an era of unparalleled glamour, jazz-filled nights, and timeless elegance? Imagine stepping into a world of opulent mansions, flowing champagne towers, and the infectious energy of the Charleston. This isn't just a dream—it's the magic of a Great Gatsby prom theme. For decades, F. Scott Fitzgerald’s iconic novel has captured the imagination, symbolizing both the dazzling heights and the tragic underbelly of the American Dream. Translating this into a prom theme offers a unique blend of sophistication, historical charm, and sheer fun that stands far above typical dance themes. But how do you move beyond the basic idea and create an authentic, breathtaking Roaring Twenties experience that your entire class will talk about for years? This guide will walk you through every detail, from the grand vision to the final feather, ensuring your Gatsby-inspired prom is nothing short of legendary.
The allure of the 1920s is more than just a costume party; it's about capturing a definitive cultural shift. The post-WWI era burst with innovation, rebellion, and an unapologetic pursuit of pleasure. A Great Gatsby theme taps into that energy, promising an night of escape and elegance. It’s a theme that works beautifully for any venue—a gymnasium can be transformed into a speakeasy, a banquet hall into West Egg, or even a classic hotel ballroom into something truly special. The key is in the details: the Art Deco geometric patterns, the muted gold and black palette, the soft glow of candlelight, and the sound of a saxophone drifting through the air. This theme allows for incredible creativity, whether you're working with a massive budget or a modest one, because so much of the magic lies in the atmosphere you create. By focusing on authenticity and immersive details, you’ll craft an event that feels less like a school dance and more like a scene from the novel itself.
Why the Great Gatsby Theme is Perfect for Prom
The Timeless Allure of the Jazz Age
The Jazz Age represents a pinnacle of style and social transformation that continues to fascinate. It was a decade of dramatic change—women gained the right to vote, jazz music exploded from New Orleans to New York, and a new class of wealthy socialites redefined luxury. Choosing this theme for prom connects your event to a culturally rich period that feels both historic and incredibly modern in its energy. It’s not just about dressing up; it’s about embodying a spirit of freedom, celebration, and artistic expression. This theme naturally encourages guests to step out of their everyday roles and into a world of glamour, making the night feel truly special and memorable. The visual language of the 1920s—beaded flapper dresses, sharp tuxedos, art deco architecture—is instantly recognizable and universally associated with celebration and sophistication.
Visual Impact and Photogenic Appeal
From a practical standpoint, a Gatsby prom is a photographer’s dream. The high-contrast color schemes of black, white, gold, and silver create stunning visuals. Think dramatic lighting against dark walls, sparkling beadwork catching the light, and elegant table settings that look incredible in photos. This visual cohesion makes for cohesive and share-worthy prom pictures, which is a huge consideration for today’s social-media-savvy teens. The theme provides clear visual guidelines that help avoid a disjointed or confusing look. When everyone understands the dress code and the decor follows a specific aesthetic, the entire event feels intentional and polished. This strong visual identity also helps with promotion—a single, striking image of a Gatsby-themed prom can generate immense excitement and set clear expectations for attendees.
A Unifying Theme for All Guests
One of the biggest challenges with prom themes is getting buy-in from the entire student body. A Great Gatsby theme bridges gaps because it appeals across different interests. The fashion draws in style-conscious students, the music history appeals to artsy types, and the sheer fun of a party atmosphere is universal. It’s sophisticated enough to feel like a “real” adult event but playful enough to be a blast. The theme also provides a built-in icebreaker; guests can compliment each other’s attire, discuss the era, or bond over learning a simple Charleston step. This shared reference point creates a more connected and engaged atmosphere than a vague “Under the Sea” or “Masquerade” theme might. It transforms the prom from just a dance into a collective experience of stepping back in time together.
Essential Decor Ideas to Transport Guests to the Jazz Age
Mastering the Art Deco Aesthetic
The cornerstone of any authentic Gatsby prom is the Art Deco design movement. This style, popular from the 1920s to 1940s, is defined by bold geometric shapes, symmetrical patterns, and lavish ornamentation. To bring this to your venue, focus on key elements:
- Geometric Patterns: Use stencils or printed backdrops featuring sunbursts, zigzags, and stepped forms. These can adorn walls behind the DJ or photo booth, or be incorporated into table runners.
- Metallic Accents:Gold and silver are essential. Think gold cutlery, silver chargers under plates, and metallic fringe curtains. These materials scream opulence and reflect light beautifully.
- Streamlined Silhouettes: Decor should feel sleek and modern for its time, not frilly or Victorian. Opt for clean lines in furniture, stage design, and signage.
You don’t need to cover every surface. Strategic placement of a few strong Art Deco elements—like a large sunburst centerpiece on the buffet table or geometric gobo lights projecting patterns on the dance floor—can have more impact than overwhelming the space.
Color Scheme and Lighting: Setting the Mood
Your color palette should evoke the Gatsby mansion at night: deep, dramatic, and luxurious. Stick to a base of black and white, with accents of gold, silver, or champagne. This creates a timeless, elegant backdrop. For a touch of Gatsby’s infamous “green light,” use a single, subtle emerald green element, like a vase or lighting gel, but keep it minimal to avoid looking like St. Patrick’s Day.
Lighting is arguably the most crucial decor element. Harsh fluorescent lights will kill the mood instantly. Instead, aim for a warm, dim, and intimate atmosphere.
- Use string lights (preferably amber or white) heavily. Drape them from ceilings, wrap them around pillars, or create a canopy over the dance floor.
- Incorporate candlelight via LED candles (safest for schools) in clusters on tables and mantles. The flickering effect is pure 1920s speakeasy.
- Consider a gobo light to project a subtle pattern, like the Gatsby “G” or a geometric design, onto the floor or walls.
- Use uplighting in gold or blue to wash walls in color, adding depth and drama.
Centerpieces and Table Settings That Speak Volumes
Table decor should feel abundant but not cluttered. Here’s how to build the perfect Gatsby table centerpiece:
- Start with a base: Use a long, low runner in black satin or gold sequined fabric.
- Add height and texture: Incorporate feathers—ostrich, peacock, or marabou—in vases or as loose arrangements. Feathers were a huge trend in the 20s.
- Incorporate pearls and beads: Scatter faux pearls or strings of beads across the table. A centerpiece of a beaded headband or vintage-style necklace draped over a vase adds instant authenticity.
- Include metallic elements: Add art deco-style candlesticks, small geometric sculptures, or gold-painted pinecones.
- Personalize with place cards: Use heavy cardstock with gold foil stamping. Attach a single pearl or a small feather to each card for a memorable touch.
For place settings, use black or gold charger plates. Napkins can be black with a gold trim, or white with a simple monogram. The goal is to make each place setting feel like a small, luxurious gift.
Creating Focal Points: The Photo Booth and Dance Floor
Designate two key areas that will define the party’s energy.
- The Photo Booth: This is non-negotiable. Create a backdrop that screams Gatsby. Options include:
- A wall painted in a dramatic black and gold art deco pattern.
- A large, printed mural of the Gatsby mansion or a 1920s cityscape.
- A curtain of gold fringe or bead strings.
Provide props that are period-appropriate: feather boas, long cigarette holders (without tobacco), vintage hats (cloche hats, newsboy caps), beaded necklaces, a vintage telephone, a framed “$” sign, and a faux fur stole. These props encourage interaction and create hilarious, memorable photos.
- The Dance Floor: Make it the undeniable heart of the room. Use a specialty dance floor if possible—one with a checkered black and white pattern or a large deco sunburst painted on it. Ensure the lighting above it is dynamic, perhaps with a simple follow spot or moving LED lights in gold and white. The dance floor should feel like a separate, magical space.
Dressing the Part: Prom Attire Inspired by the 1920s
The Iconic Flapper Dress: A Guide for Guests
For many, the flapper dress is the first image that comes to mind with a Gatsby theme. To help your guests achieve the look without stress, provide clear, encouraging guidelines. The modern prom flapper dress typically features:
- Drop Waist: A waistline that sits at the hips, creating a straight, boyish silhouette.
- Fringe: Layers of fringe (sequined or beaded) that swing and shimmer as you dance the Charleston.
- Beading and Sequins: Intricate geometric or floral beading patterns are key. Dresses can be fully covered or feature beaded panels.
- Length: Often knee-length or just below, allowing for movement.
- Necklines: Common styles include V-necks, scoop necks, and the iconic “halter” look.
Color advice: While black, white, gold, and silver are classic, encourage jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, and deep ruby red for a pop of color that still feels period-appropriate. Remind guests that comfort is key for dancing—fringe should be securely attached and dresses shouldn’t be so tight they restrict movement.
Gents’ Gatsby: Tuxedos, Vests, and the Male Silhouette
Men’s fashion in the 1920s was sharply elegant but less rigid than today’s tuxedo. For a Gatsby prom, the standard is a tuxedo or a very dark suit. To elevate it to the era:
- The Jacket: A tuxedo with a shawl or peak lapel is perfect. A pinstripe suit is also a fantastic, slightly more casual option that feels very 1920s gangster/gangster moll.
- The Vest: A satin or brocade vest in black, white, or a bold color like burgundy is essential. It should be worn over a crisp white dress shirt.
- Accessories: This is where personality shines. A black bow tie (never a long tie) is mandatory. Add a pocket square (white or patterned), cufflinks, and a fedora or newsboy cap. A simple walking cane or a faux cigarette holder can be fun prop additions.
- Footwear: Oxfords or patent leather dress shoes. No sneakers.
Emphasize that looking sharp doesn’t require an expensive rental. A well-fitted black suit with the right vest, bow tie, and shoes can look incredibly authentic.
Accessories: The Finishing Touches That Make the Look
Accessories are what truly sell the 1920s aesthetic for all guests.
- For Women:Cloche hats (bell-shaped hats that sit close to the head) are iconic. Long pearl necklaces (often multiple strands), beaded bracelets, and elegant headbands (often with a jewel or feather) are must-haves. A long beaded necklace that can be swung while dancing is a classic. Feather boas are fun but can be cumbersome; suggest them for photos.
- For Men: A fedora is the quintessential hat. A watch chain attached to a vest buttonhole adds detail. Cufflinks are a small but significant touch.
- For All: Encourage guests to think about their entire look. Hair should be styled—women in finger waves or a sleek bob, men with a side part and pomade. This level of commitment to the theme elevates the entire event’s authenticity.
Setting the Mood with Music and Entertainment
Curating the Perfect Jazz and Swing Playlist
Music is the soul of a Gatsby prom. You need a soundtrack that spans the era but also keeps a dance floor full of teens. Your playlist should be a mix of:
- Classic Jazz Standards: Louis Armstrong’s “What a Wonderful World,” Duke Ellington’s “It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing),” Ella Fitzgerald’s “Summertime.”
- Big Band Swing: Benny Goodman’s “Sing, Sing, Sing,” Glenn Miller’s “In the Mood,” Artie Shaw’s “Begin the Beguine.” These are dance music.
- Modern Swing Revival: For a bridge to modern ears, include artists like Postmodern Jukebox (who covers pop songs in vintage styles) or songs from the Great Gatsby 2013 soundtrack (which features modern artists like Jay-Z and Beyoncé in a 1920s style).
Key tip: Hire a DJ who understands the era or, better yet, a live jazz band if the budget allows. A live band creates an irreplaceable energy and authenticity. If using a DJ, provide them with a detailed, pre-approved playlist to avoid any modern pop songs breaking the spell.
Dance Floor Activities: Beyond the Slow Dance
The Charleston is the dance of the era. Don’t assume everyone knows how to do it. Consider:
- Hiring an Instructor: For the first 30 minutes of the dance floor opening, have a dance instructor teach basic Charleston steps. This breaks the ice, gets people moving, and is incredibly fun.
- Dance Contests: Hold a ** Charleston dance-off** later in the night with a small prize.
- Designated Dance Styles: Announce “all slow dances will be replaced with swing dances” to keep the energy up.
Other entertainment ideas include a tarot card reader in a corner (very 1920s mystique), a silent auction for Gatsby-themed gift baskets, or a “Guess the Bootlegger” game where students have to identify teachers in disguise.
The Photo Booth Experience: Props and Backdrops
As mentioned in decor, the photo booth is critical. To make it a major attraction:
- Have multiple backdrops: One classic art deco, one that looks like the interior of Gatsby’s mansion, one that’s a simple gold curtain.
- Stock a massive prop box: Go beyond the basics. Include vintage luggage, a “1920” sign, a fake mustache on a stick, a jeweled masquerade mask, a vintage microphone, a stack of old books, and a chalkboard with “Gatsby Prom 2024” written in fancy script.
- Use a high-quality camera and printer: Instant photos that guests can take home are a huge hit. Consider a digital option where photos are texted or emailed with a branded frame.
- Have a “booth attendant” to help with props and keep the line moving.
Menu and Cocktails: Sipping Like It’s 1922
Signature Drinks: Non-Alcoholic Elegance
Remember, this is a high school event. Focus on elegant, non-alcoholic “mocktails” that capture the speakeasy vibe without the booze. Name them after the novel:
- The Green Light: A refreshing mix of lemon-lime soda, simple syrup, mint, and a drop of green food coloring. Serve in a tall glass with a mint sprig.
- The Old Sport: A sophisticated blend of ginger ale, fresh lime juice, and a splash of cranberry, garnished with a lime wheel.
- Champagne (Cider) Toast: For the grand entrance or a toast, serve chilled apple cider in plastic champagne flutes. It looks the part and is completely appropriate.
Presentation is everything. Serve all drinks in glassware—plastic champagne flutes, highball glasses, or coupe glasses. Add decorative stirrers with pearls or feathers. Have a “bar” staffed by teachers or parent volunteers in vests and bow ties, shaking mocktails in a cocktail shaker for effect.
Finger Foods and Passed Appetizers
The food at a Gatsby party should be elegant, easy to eat while standing and socializing, and visually appealing. Think of the hors d'oeuvres served at a 1920s soiree.
- Classic Choices: Mini quiches, deviled eggs with paprika, smoked salmon on blinis with cream cheese, prosciutto-wrapped melon, stuffed mushrooms, and elegant tea sandwiches (cucumber, egg salad).
- Themed Twists: “Millionaire’s Bites” (chocolate-covered strawberries), “West Egg Wings” (honey garlic), “Valley of Ashes” brownies.
- Presentation: Use tiered stands, silver platters, and garnishes like parsley or edible flowers. Label each dish with a clever name on a small tent card.
If budget allows, consider a passed hors d'oeuvres service during the first hour to create a feeling of luxury and service.
The Dessert Table: A Sweet Finale
Dessert should be a showstopper. Create a “Dessert Bar” that feels like a bakery from the 1920s.
- Cupcakes with gold-dripped frosting and a single pearl on top.
- Mini cheesecakes with a graham cracker crust and a berry compote.
- Chocolate-dipped strawberries and macarons in gold and black.
- A large, ornate cake as a centerpiece. It could be black and white with gold accents, or a simple white cake with edible gold leaf.
Display everything on cake stands of varying heights, draped with strings of pearls or beads. Have a dedicated station for hot chocolate or coffee in vintage-style cups.
Activities and Games to Keep the Party Roaring
The Charleston Dance-Off and Lessons
This is the single most effective activity to get everyone involved and break the ice. As mentioned, hire a dance instructor for the first 30-45 minutes. They can teach:
- The basic Charleston step (kick-ball-change).
- The Charleston with a “trolley” arm motion.
- A simple partner swing move.
Once the lesson is over, put on a fast-paced swing or jazz song and let everyone practice. Later in the night, announce the dance-off. Have judges (teachers, prom committee members) and award small prizes like gift cards or novelty trophies. The energy from this activity is infectious and creates hilarious memories.
Speakeasy-Style Games and Mingling
To mimic the hidden, exclusive feel of a 1920s speakeasy, set up low-key activity stations:
- “Bootlegger’s Poker” or “Gin Rummy” Tables: Use playing cards with a vintage design. Simple, quiet games encourage mingling.
- Tarot Card or Palm Reading Station: Hire a student or local performer to do lighthearted readings. It adds to the mystical, funfair atmosphere.
- “Guess the Gangster” Photo Game: Blow up and crop photos of teachers or prom committee members into “mugshots.” Guests pay a ticket to guess who’s who. Proceeds can go to a charity.
- A “Wishing Well” where guests can drop a note with their “dreams” (like Gatsby’s green light) for a small donation.
Photo Scavenger Hunt
Create a list of photo challenges that encourage exploration and interaction. Provide this list at the entrance or via a QR code.
- “Find a couple doing the Charleston.”
- “Take a photo with someone wearing a cloche hat.”
- “Recreate the ‘Gatsby reaching for the green light’ pose.”
- “Find three people wearing gold.”
The first team to complete the list wins a prize. This gets people moving, talking, and engaging with the decor.
Budget-Friendly Tips for an Authentic Gatsby Prom
DIY Decor That Looks Expensive
You can achieve a luxurious Gatsby look without a luxury budget by focusing on smart DIY projects:
- Art Deco Stencils: Buy or print large geometric stencils (sunbursts, chevrons). Use them with black paint on large rolls of white paper to create stunning backdrops for photo booths or walls. This is incredibly cheap and impactful.
- Feathers and Beads: Purchase bulk ostrich feathers and faux pearl strands from craft stores. Scatter them on tables, use them in centerpieces, or attach them to balloon weights. They add instant 1920s flair.
- Gold Spray Paint: This is your best friend. Spray paint cheap vases, cardboard cutouts (like a giant “G”), pinecones, and even branches to create metallic accents everywhere.
- Fringe Curtains: Make your own by attaching long strands of gold or black fringe (from a fabric store) to a rod or a piece of fabric. Hang these in doorways or as a backdrop.
- Lighting: Skip expensive rentals. Use white or amber string lights (Christmas lights work perfectly) wrapped around everything. Add LED candles (buy in bulk online) for safe, flickering tabletop ambiance.
Thrifting and Renting for Attire
Encourage students to thrift for their outfits. A quick trip to a local consignment store can uncover amazing beaded gowns and vintage suits. Provide a list of what to look for: drop-waist dresses, silk shirts, vests.
For those who don’t want to buy, prom tuxedo rentals are standard and affordable. For dresses, consider a group rental program with a formalwear shop—sometimes they offer discounts for large groups.
Accessories are where thrifting shines. Feather boas, vintage hats, long pearl necklaces are often found for a few dollars at thrift stores. A simple black headband with a single jewel can be bought in bulk online for pennies.
Smart Spending on Food and Drinks
- Mocktail Bar: Making your own signature drinks is far cheaper than a full bar service. Buy large bottles of ginger ale, lemon-lime soda, and cranberry juice. Add fresh fruit and herbs. Serve in nice glasses.
- Potluck Dessert: Have the parent committee or student volunteers contribute homemade desserts. You can still present them beautifully on a decorated table.
- Simple Finger Foods: Focus on a few high-impact, cost-effective items like a giant cheese board, a veggie platter with hummus, and a pasta salad. Quality over quantity.
- Skip the Full Meal: If your prom is after dinner, just serve substantial appetizers and desserts. This significantly cuts the food budget.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with a Gatsby Theme
Mistake 1: Confusing “Gatsby” with Generic “1920s”
Not all 1920s looks are Gatsby. The novel’s world is specifically East Egg/West Egg—old money vs. new money. This means elegant, understated opulence, not the gaudy, over-the-top “Roaring Twenties” you might see in a college party. Avoid:
- Excessive glitter (use sequins and beads instead).
- Bright, clashing colors (stick to your muted palette).
- Cheap-looking plastic “jazz age” decorations. Focus on Art Deco, not just “old-timey.”
The difference is subtle but noticeable to those who know the source material.
Mistake 2: Ignoring the Importance of Lighting
Harsh, bright lighting is the number one killer of atmosphere. You can have perfect decor, but if it’s lit like a gym class, the magic disappears. Invest in lighting. Dim the house lights as much as possible. Use colored gels on spotlights. Rope lights and string lights are your best friends. The goal is to create pools of light and shadow, mimicking the intimate glow of a mansion at night.
Mistake 3: A Weak or Missing Dress Code
If half the school shows up in jeans and t-shirts, the theme is lost. You must enforce a clear, communicated dress code. This doesn’t mean forcing expensive dresses, but it does mean requiring “formal attire inspired by the 1920s” or “black tie optional with a 1920s twist.” Provide visual examples on social media and in school announcements. Have a few “theme-appropriate” items available at the door (like a black bow tie or a feather boa) for students who forget, but make it clear that casual wear is not acceptable.
Mistake 4: Forgetting the Soundtrack
A playlist of random pop songs will yank everyone out of the fantasy. The music must be consistent and period-inspired. Hire a DJ who gets it, or create a locked playlist. Start with classic jazz for arrival and dinner, build to big band swing for dancing, and maybe slow it down with a few crooner ballads later. Avoid any post-1950s music until the very end, if at all.
Mistake 5: Overcomplicating the Food Service
Long lines for a sit-down dinner kill momentum. For a Gatsby prom, passed appetizers and heavy hors d'oeuvres are better. They allow people to mingle, eat while walking, and never be stuck in a line. If you do a buffet, have multiple stations to prevent crowding. Keep food simple, elegant, and easy to eat in one or two bites.
Frequently Asked Questions About a Great Gatsby Prom
How much does a Gatsby prom theme cost?
Cost varies wildly based on DIY effort. A tight budget can be managed for $2,000-$5,000 by focusing on DIY decor, thrifted attire, and simple food. A mid-range budget ($8,000-$15,000) allows for some rented decor (like a specialty dance floor), a better sound system, and more elaborate food. A high-end Gatsby prom ($20,000+) could include a live band, professional staging, elaborate centerpiece rentals, and premium catering. The biggest cost savers are lighting, music (DJ vs. band), and food style.
How do we make sure the theme feels authentic and not like a costume party?
Authenticity comes from cohesion and subtlety. It’s in the lighting, the music, the color palette, and the collective effort on attire. Avoid literal, cartoonish props (like a giant cutout of Leonardo DiCaprio). Instead, use texture—feathers, pearls, metal, satin. Focus on creating an atmosphere rather than a set. When the lighting is dim and golden, jazz is playing, and everyone is dressed in black and gold, the feeling is authentic, even if individual elements are simple.
Where is the best place to find decorations and props?
- Online Retailers: Amazon, eBay, and Etsy are treasure troves for specific items like art deco stencils, gold fringe curtains, and vintage-style props.
- Craft Stores: Michaels, Hobby Lobby, and Jo-Ann are essential for gold spray paint, faux pearls, feathers, beads, and fabric.
- Thrift Stores & Antique Shops: For unique, one-of-a-kind decor pieces like vintage suitcases, old books, or ornate frames.
- Rental Companies: For large items like specialty tables, chiavari chairs, dance floors, or lighting packages. Always get quotes.
- School Resources: Check with the drama department—they often have great lighting, backdrops, and set pieces you can borrow.
What is the most important element to prioritize if we have a limited budget?
If you must choose, prioritize lighting and music. You can have minimal decor, but if the room is brightly lit and playing Top 40, the theme is dead. A dimly lit room with a perfect jazz playlist will feel 80% like a Gatsby party, even with simple tablecloths. Next, focus on the dance floor and photo booth areas—these are the most photographed and used spaces. Make those two areas incredible, and the rest can be simpler.
How early should we start planning?
Start at least 6-9 months in advance. This allows time to:
- Book the venue and any key vendors (DJ/band, photographer, rentals).
- Research and source decor, especially if ordering online.
- Create a detailed budget and start fundraising.
- Communicate the theme and dress code to the student body early so they can plan attire.
- Assemble a committee and delegate tasks effectively. Last-minute Gatsby planning is a recipe for stress and a disjointed event.
Conclusion: Your Unforgettable Night Awaits
A Great Gatsby prom theme is more than a party—it’s an invitation to step into a legend. It promises an escape from the ordinary into a world of shimmering elegance, infectious swing music, and timeless style. By focusing on the core pillars—authentic Art Deco decor, a clear and enforced dress code, a period-perfect soundtrack, and immersive activities—you transform a simple school dance into a milestone event. Remember, the magic is in the atmosphere you cultivate. It’s in the warm glow of candlelight reflecting off a beaded dress, the syncopated rhythm of a saxophone, and the collective feeling that everyone has stepped into the pages of a novel.
Don’t be intimidated by the details. Start with the lighting and the music; build your decor around a strong black, white, and gold palette; and communicate the vision clearly to your class. Whether you craft every centerpiece by hand or rent the perfect chandelier, the goal is the same: to create a night of glamour and joy that feels both historic and deeply personal. So, raise a glass of sparkling cider, cue up the jazz, and get ready to throw a Roaring Twenties prom that will be the talk of the school for years to come. After all, as Gatsby believed, “Can’t repeat the past? Why of course you can!” With this guide, you absolutely can.