How to say no to prom nicely?

How do you gracefully decline an invitation to prom while still maintaining a positive and respectful tone? What are some polite and considerate ways to express your decision without hurting the feelings of the person who extended the invitation? Could you provide some examples of how to phrase your refusal, ensuring that the conversation remains respectful and amicable? Additionally, are there any tips or strategies you could recommend for managing the aftermath of declining the invitation, such as avoiding awkwardness or maintaining a friendly relationship with the person who invited you?