Quote Originally Posted by Jock Scot View Post
Alright, now is the time to do your reconnaissance! Find a person who KNOWS what they are talking about and HAS BEEN to this event before. HOW FORMAL is formal? Black tie? White tie?What do the ladies wear?Long dress? Long skirt and blouse? How warm? How cold? What not to wear!!!!?? Do that as soon as possible. When I used to go to those sorts of events and I was going for the first time to a new venue it is perfectly normal to ring some one who has been, to find these things out. I probably get ten or twenty of those types of phone calls a year even now from people who really do know, but they are just checking. Oh and don't cut corners! Likewise don't go over the top! It will ruin your evening, as YOU WILL KNOW what corner you have cut, or, crikey, I wish I was not carrying that sword, and you WILL spend all evening worrying about it. Trust me, I know!

It is also quite normal to beg and borrow from friends certain bits of kit to replace yours that has suddenly shrunk, or you are going to an event that you don't normally go to. Please, please ALWAYS return the kit as soon as possible. It sounds obvious doesn't it?Believe me, over the years, I have known firm friends fall out over kit not being returned. Beside you may want to borrow the kit again. Have fun.

Yes, thank you Jock! **putting a list together, don't get overwhelmed now Ali!**

Ok, I think I'll do some recon and come back with ideas to get some more advice...