Most awkward press launch ever

Every job has its drawbacks. For example, I used to be South Africa's foremost writer on taxidermy. That's right; every time the SA Taxidermy Association wanted on article on what trophy mount is best for giraffes in small spaces, or what to do when your lion's head starts losing its eyelashes, they would give me a ring. Oh, I shouldn't complain - I got to have many experiences that many other journalists don't have. After all, you just haven't lived until a man smelling strongly of formaldehyde and wet fur has whispered into your ear, "Would you like to see my skull shed?"

Thus, I should have more empathy for the poor PR whose mail ended up in my inbox the other day - after all, she probably felt as awkward penning her email as I did reading it. The email in question was an invite to the launch of a new porn DVD. The name of this girl's company suggests that she usually spends her time penning releases about musicians, so I can just imagine how the request to invite journos to this event came like a bolt from the blue. Oh, she tried bravely enough - waxing lyrical about the appearance of the gorgeous star at some adult shop, as if she were merely discussing Princess Kate milling around at the opening of a children's theatre - but I can't help wondering how many positive RSVPs she received.