7 APRIL >7 APRIL 2005

Though it seems like everything that could possibly go wrong has done so as his wedding approaches, Prince Charles has maintained a sense of humour as he prepares to tie the knot with longtime companion Camilla Parker Bowles.

Apparently unfazed by the many obstacles that have arisen in the run-up to the nuptials – including a last-minute change of date after the wedding conflicted with Pope John Paul II's funeral – Charles was able to joke about his unrelenting string of bad luck.
Referring to his pending trip to Italy, he reportedly quipped: "If I find a priest in Rome I might just stay there and get married instead."

Camilla appears similarly calm, continuing to look relaxed and happy this week as she left a Mayfair salon where she had her hair highlighted. Indeed the laid-back bride-to-be even took time to chat with staff over a cup of tea. And she has another thing to smile about, as she's just landed a spot on the Harpers & Queen best-dressed list.

The couple would be well advised to continue looking for the cloud's silver lining, though, as icy wind and rain are predicted for their wedding day.