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Joe's Diary: Reception Drinks

I don't think we can stretch to a free bar for the whole night, so we may arrange for everyone to have one free drink to get the party started.
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Joe's Diary: Caring for Katie's Wedding Gown

Katie being ever practical has already been looking into what to do with her dress after the big day, and has asked for my help.

Being tall, apparently it will be easier to sell as the new owner would be able to have it shortened if needs be. There are specialist shops and of course internet auction sites. Either way, the first thing that needs to happen is to have it cleaned by a dry cleaner that specialises in dealing with evening gowns, and preferably bridal gowns in particular.

These companies are used to dealing with the special fabrics involved and many also offer a repair service. It may look pristine now but after a day of grass, sitting for meals and dancing, it may well look very battered. I said I would send it off the day after the wedding. The sooner the better, otherwise any perspiration can discolour the gown.

If she decides to store it, it needs to be wrapped in acid-free paper (plastic is a big no-no), and you can get big boxes designed exactly for this purpose. The specialist cleaning companies usually sell all of these bits and pieces too, or know of others that do. She asked me to look into this so I?d better go and see if there are any in my Wedding Organizer before she calls, don't want her to think I?m being slack!