Hello my darlings! It’s Emma here, and oh my, oh my, London is calling, and I am answering! 🚂 A little birdy told me this was going to be a fabulous week in the big smoke, so I packed my Pink Tutu (because a Pink Tutu goes everywhere!), my ballet shoes, and a suitcase full of girly loveliness for a weekend filled with shopping, ballet and London’s buzzing atmosphere!
The Journey to London:
I took the train up to London from my humble abode in Derbyshire – gotta love those train journeys, they’re just so wonderfully British, especially when you have a window seat, a cuppa and a good book (today it was “The Nutcracker” for me – I can never resist a good ballet read!). My Pink Tutu didn't have any issues with the train ride. I packed her in her little tulle-bag to keep her pristine, so she was ready to make an entrance when we got to Paddington Station! I've found train travel is such a wonderful way to get into the spirit of things. I often chat with fellow travellers and gather great tips on hidden gems and local haunts – who needs Google Maps when you have a friendly train neighbour! 😉
A Friday Filled With Fun:
So, Friday arrived! My little London heart was fluttering, and the excitement bubbled like champagne! Today's agenda? To hit the shops and then see a show! But first, coffee! My caffeine kick started with a perfectly pink cappuccino in a charming café off Oxford Street. The pink swirls and heart designs made my heart sing – London already knows how to treat a girl!
The highlight of my shopping trip had to be Liberty. This is the place for everything chic, elegant, and, dare I say, a touch decadent. You'll find fabulous scarves and trinkets and the most glorious silk tops (that will have your wardrobe screaming, "Get me!". My heart, of course, led me to their textile department. The colours, patterns, and textures just took my breath away. I couldn't resist grabbing a piece of beautifully printed Liberty silk for my upcoming sewing project. You’ll just have to wait for the reveal, darling! 🤫
From London's streets to London’s Stages:
After some window shopping and retail therapy that brought my wallet to its knees, I made my way to the majestic Royal Opera House. Oh, how I love this venue! It oozes elegance and history and transports you to another world as soon as you enter the grand halls. Tonight, a performance of "Swan Lake"! 🦢 Now, if you know me, you know Swan Lake is one of my all-time favourite ballets. It is simply magical! I felt every twirl, every leap, and every emotion through my heart and toes. Seeing these incredible dancers weave stories with their bodies was simply breathtaking! It is moments like these that make all my training worthwhile! 💖
Dancing and Dinner 🩰🍽️:
After the performance, my little ballet legs needed a rest (even though the ballet studio calls on me tomorrow!), and what better place to relax than at a lovely Italian trattoria. A delicious plate of pasta, a glass of vino (Italian wine does something to my spirit!), and a conversation about the performance with fellow ballet enthusiasts – now that’s the perfect way to end a Friday in London. The Italian waiters gave me their full attention – especially when they found out I was a dancer. “Ah, bellissima! You have such grace”, one whispered as he offered me more pasta, which naturally, I accepted!
And the tutu continues:
Today was just the beginning, my loves! Tomorrow will be a full day of ballet class, the Covent Garden markets, maybe a visit to Buckingham Palace (even though it doesn't do it for me – too many rules! I just feel cramped. I like my pink tutu free!), and then an evening exploring London’s magical theatre district – because London simply has to be seen by night! I will update you all on these fabulous adventures in next Friday’s blog! Stay tuned!
Until next week, be inspired! And always remember, there’s a Pink Tutu for every occasion, don’t be afraid to let your own light shine! 🌸
Emma xoxo
