Friday, July 11th, 1997
Hello my darlings! Emma here, your favourite tutu-wearing, pink-obsessed ballerina, writing to you live from the heart of London! I’ve just arrived in the capital, whizzing in on the train from Derbyshire (you know I love a good train journey - something about the gentle rhythm of the wheels and the exciting anticipation of reaching a new destination!). My head is already buzzing with the sights and sounds of this fantastic city.
You might be wondering, "Emma, how on earth did you afford this London trip?" Well, my loves, I’m quite the busy little bee! Between ballet performances and teaching classes (did you know I run a fab ballet class in Derby now?), I managed to save up enough for this weekend adventure! So here I am, ready to embrace all that London has to offer, from dazzling theatre shows to oh-so-chic fashion boutiques.
And speaking of dazzling… I’ve naturally got a fabulous outfit prepared! A delicate pink tutu, swirling around my legs like a cloud, topped with a shimmering pink top. Of course, I've also added a splash of floral embellishment to my hair for a touch of whimsy, because a girl's gotta have a bit of whimsy, right?
My day started with a grand arrival at the enchanting St. Pancras station. I couldn’t resist twirling in my tutu on the station platform as I admired the glorious gothic architecture. You know, sometimes you just gotta embrace the theatricality of life! And if a train station offers the perfect setting for a little dance, who am I to argue?
After storing my little ballerina case at my darling’s flat in Kensington (a quaint and charming flat with a view of the Royal Albert Hall - talk about perfect inspiration!), I ventured out into the sunshine to explore London’s incredible hidden gems.
Shopping Spree:
Now, we all know I love a bit of shopping, and London is a haven for fashion enthusiasts! The first stop on my shopping spree was a little gem tucked away on a charming side street in Kensington, called “The Pink Tutu”. I know, right?! How could I not? It's simply divine! Think everything a girl could ever dream of: from delicate lace blouses to feather boas, silk scarves, and those darling little pillbox hats - they had it all! I ended up buying the most exquisite vintage broach for my tutu - a shimmering pink and emerald creation with a tiny little pink ballerina perched on top.
My next shopping mission took me to a small vintage boutique on Portobello Road in Notting Hill. Oh my, this shop was like stepping back in time! Everything was a vision of vintage elegance: floral print dresses, retro sweaters with playful polka dots, and a vintage pink coat that literally screamed “Emma, buy me!” I ended up getting a darling vintage floral print skirt that matches my pink top perfectly - I already have a fabulous ballet number in mind!
Taking in the Shows:
I love, love, LOVE ballet and anything theatrical, so naturally, my London agenda includes a grand theatrical experience! I was utterly delighted to discover that the National Theatre was staging an original production of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” You can imagine the thrill of being immersed in such a timeless classic, the beautiful costumes, the enchanting set design – it was magical. And did I mention the choreography was exquisite?
Afternoon Tea Time:
Afternoon tea is a London tradition, so of course I had to experience it for myself! I settled on a classic afternoon tea experience at the luxurious Ritz Hotel. Oh, the elegance! The crystal teacups, the dainty finger sandwiches, and the warm scones with clotted cream and jam... it was pure heaven. And they even had pink china! (You can imagine how thrilled I was).
A Romantic Stroll Along the Thames:
After a delicious and indulgent afternoon tea, I decided to take a leisurely stroll along the Thames. It's breathtaking! I sat on a bench near Westminster Bridge and soaked in the magical ambiance as the sun started to set, casting long shadows across the city. The iconic London Eye twinkled behind me like a giant pink gemstone, which definitely added a touch of extra sparkle to my evening.
Sunset Delight:
No London trip would be complete without experiencing a quintessential London sunset. And lucky for me, the evening ended with a glorious sunset over the Tower of London. I watched from a bench along the river as the sun dipped behind the iconic structure, casting a warm glow across the cityscape. I simply had to document the moment, so I snapped a few pictures, twirling in my pink tutu against the backdrop of the sunset and the Tower. You can see my London sunset masterpiece on my Pink Tutu Blog website: www.pink-tutu.com!
The Last Day in London:
Oh, my lovelies, I’m so grateful for this amazing weekend in London. But all good things must come to an end, and tomorrow, I head back to Derbyshire.
You know I’m going to miss the city already! However, the London experience has reignited my passion for pink tutus, and I’m planning a very special performance back in Derby, inspired by all the magical moments I’ve experienced this weekend.
I can’t wait to share all the details of the performance with you next week! Don't forget to subscribe to the Pink Tutu blog to see the behind-the-scenes action and be the first to get updates on the grand opening of my ballet school!
Until next week, darlings,
Emma x
P.S. Don’t forget to visit my website and Instagram page for more pink tutu-filled inspiration!
www.pink-tutu.com Instagram: @pinktutuemma
