Marine Corps Ball

So my husband is a Marine and he told me we have to go to the ball in November. I really don't want to go but since he says we have to go I figured I might as well have fun with it. SO. I am on a mission to lose as much weight as I can, in a healthy way, by November 2. I need motivation and I need to talk to people who are also trying to lose weight. I want to keep this going even after the ball too! So any suggestions? I also need help on picking out the right dress!