Former prom queen provides keepsakes to girls
Donates tiaras for Brentwood, Ladue proms
By Kate Miller
Staff Writer

A former prom queen and current business owner donated rhinestone tiaras to two local high schools so this year's prom queens could have a lasting keepsake.

Olivette resident Ginger Cleland is the owner of Designs in Gold, 11006 Olive Blvd. in Creve Coeur. Cleland was prom queen several years ago in her hometown in Illinois.

"I still have my tiara," Cleland said. "It sits on my book-shelf at home."

With that in mind, Cleland called Brentwood and Ladue Horton Watkins high schools to offer tiaras from her jewelry store.

"I just thought it would be a neat opportunity to give something to the young ladies being honored," she said.
She selected Ladue because her children attend the district and Brentwood because one her employees is an alumna.

"When Designs in Gold called to say they could donate the tiara, we though it was awesome," said Teresa Wheeler, director of guidance and prom coordinator at Brentwood High School.

Wheeler said schools usually have to buy tiaras from pricey catalogs, which cuts into the prom budget. This year, because of Cleland's generosity, it's money that will be used for something else.

"We were most appreciative and thankful they could do that, "Wheeler said.

Hapsari Samoeri was crowned prom queen for Brentwood High School April 26. Ladue High will have its prom May 3.

The newly crowned prom queens will get to keep the tiaras, each worth about $35 as a memento of their special night.