How to Keep a Ballroom Diary You'll Treasure Forever
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Your Ballavimus Ballroom Diary is more than just a logbook. It captures not just the facts, but the feelings, moments, and memories that make every ball special.
Being able to revisit the memories of each ball also makes attending them better value too. You’ll enjoy them at the time and afterwards too.
These tips will help you turn your diary into something you love owning, reading and writing in.
1. Fill in the basics the day before (ball name, date, band, your party)
Make it part of your pre-ball ritual - like choosing your outfit or checking your tickets. You'll know exactly where your diary is the next morning, and all you'll need to add are your favourite moments from the night in the Remarks section.
Don’t fill in the names of your party in too far in advance in case of last-minute changes.
2. Add your Remarks within 24 hours, while memories and emotions are fresh
What to capture:
· Memorable quotes or funny moments that capture the evening
· Which dances the band played best
· Standout details about the venue, decorations, or unique features
· Record compliments given or received
· The best dancers too (if you’re confident they won’t read your diary!)
3. Get your party to sign their own names if you're gathering beforehand
Their handwriting adds a personal touch that turns your diary into a guestbook. Years later, you'll smile at their signatures as much as the memories
4. No dance card? Use a photo instead
Important: Photos can stick to paper over time (especially glossy ones), so don't use the photo corners for photos. Instead, use self-adhesive photo pockets (search online for options).
Pro tip: Order multiple prints of your favourites - tuck spares into thank-you notes for your host or fellow guests. You can also add menus, pressed flowers, or other flat mementos.
5. Use a fine-tip pen that won't bleed through
The pages are premium quality, but a Sharpie will still haunt you on the next page. Stick with ballpoint, gel, or fountain pens."
6. How to attach dance cards with photo corners
1. Slide the corners onto your dance card first
2. Position it on the left page so partner names are visible
3. Press firmly to secure
The oversized clear corners are designed for thick card stock. Once stuck down, they're permanent - so take your time positioning them. The same advice goes for using photo pockets.
7. Add your old dance cards - even if memories are hazy
Can't remember details? Ask friends who were there, or simply note the basics (date, venue, band). Just having the card proves you were part of something special.
8. The goal is creating a treasure trove of memories you'll love reading years later.
It doesn’t have to be perfect to be beautiful.
Bonus: Capture the Night (Not Just the Diary)
9. Ask friends for candid mid-dance shots, not just posed photos
If there's a professional photographer, limit your own phone use - you don't want your mobile in every professional shot!
10. Record the opening ceremony - then put your phone away
Opening ceremonies are perfect for social media, and once you've captured it, you're free to focus on friends instead of footage for the rest of the night.
11. If you have a printed menu on your table, consider getting everyone in the party to sign it and give it to the host.
It’s a thoughtful keepsake for the host - a thank-you for herding all those well-dressed cats!
Now go create memories worth preserving. Your future self will thank you for every detail you capture tonight.