For many teenagers, attending prom is a dream, a rite of passage that marks the end of their high school journey.
But for some, the absence of a date can cast a shadow over this anticipated event.
However, for one California teen, the solution to this predicament was closer to home than she might have imagined.
Kaylah Bell, a 17-year-old student from Lancaster High School, found herself without a date as prom night approached.
Despite her efforts, nothing was falling into place.
She told Yahoo Lifestyle:
“I was talking to some people but they all flaked out. It was really hard to find someone to commit to being my prom date.”
But Kaylah wasn’t about to let this setback ruin her evening.
She had a special person in mind, someone she knew would never let her down: her grandfather, Alvin Hackett.
“My grandpa was the only one that I knew would dress to impress,” Kaylah shared.
Alvin, a 67-year-old pastor with a penchant for style, was the perfect choice.
Kaylah fondly recalled how her grandparents would dress alike for banquets and church.
She even mentioned that her grandfather’s wardrobe inspiration comes from none other than Steve Harvey.
Alvin’s involvement in Kaylah’s prom preparations wasn’t just limited to being her date.
When Kaylah felt that her chosen gown, reminiscent of Mary, Queen of Scots, lacked a certain spark, it was her grandparents who stepped in.
They helped her add a diamond belt and a matching diamond-studded cape, elevating her outfit to regal standards.
This ensemble was finalized just a day before the prom.
Everything came together perfectly.
On the big night, Alvin turned up looking every bit the dapper gentleman in a navy-blue striped suit, complete with a pink satin tie and a corsage that perfectly complemented Kaylah’s attire.
“The matching suit and corsage was all his idea,” Kaylah said, her voice filled with gratitude and admiration.
Their entrance at the prom venue was nothing short of show-stopping.
Everyone thought they were just adorable together – especially since Kaylah’s classmates know how important her grandpa is to her.
The heartwarming story didn’t just end at the school’s doors.
When Kaylah shared their photos on Twitter, the post went viral and currently has nearly 90K likes.
My papa knew I didn’t have a date to my prom so he matched me !!!!!!!! pic.twitter.com/nmYkt8qn4y
— 💛Kaylah Milan💛 (@deary_kay) April 22, 2019
The online community was quick to shower the duo with compliments.
One user, mistaking Alvin for Kaylah’s father, commented,
“Your dad is dapper af. I hope I age this well.”
Another admirer declared, “No Man is worthy Enough to be her date.. A Queen I stan.”
The outpouring of love and admiration was overwhelming, with many praising Alvin for showcasing “real love” to his granddaughter.
Kaylah’s sentiments mirrored the online community’s.
Reflecting on the unforgettable evening, she told Yahoo Lifestyle,
“For my grandpa to be happy and eager to do it was amazing to me. I felt extremely loved … It’s a happy memory I can always look back on.”
Isn’t this story just so sweet? Press play on the video below to see an interview with the adorable pair on the Steve Harvey Show!
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