By Emma, Tutu Tuesday Blogger
Hey loves! Emma here, ready to burst out of my sequins and straight into your hearts with the most fabulous Tuesday story you’ll ever read! The sun was shining, the music was thumping, and the air was thick with the electric buzz of pure joy…yes, you guessed it, we're talking Pride!
This June, Hammersmith was transformed into a vibrant rainbow tapestry of acceptance, celebration, and yes, you bet, tutus! This year, I'd decided to truly embrace the spirit of the occasion with a shimmering pink creation that would leave even the most jaded fashionista speechless. I mean, let's be honest, who doesn't love a little bit of sparkle in their life, especially when celebrating love, diversity, and the joy of being yourself?
My trusty tulle companion, lovingly dubbed “The Duchess of Dazzle,” had been painstakingly crafted, layered upon layer, in a glorious shade of pink, worthy of a blush-worthy queen herself! Of course, no true Pride ensemble would be complete without a statement piece, and I'd decided to top off The Duchess with a giant, iridescent bow, a wink to the fabulous extravagance of this annual extravaganza!
The energy in Hammersmith that day was truly electrifying! As I weaved my way through the crowds, the aroma of street food and laughter mixed with the intoxicating scent of joy. From families with children sporting rainbow-themed outfits to seasoned activists decked out in glitter and fabulousness, it was a glorious display of the true spirit of unity.
My phone camera became a whirring kaleidoscope of colours and emotions. Every snap was a vibrant tableau: a group of friends holding up rainbow flags with genuine smiles, a young couple exchanging loving glances, and countless displays of pure unadulterated love.
And then, of course, there was the music. My feet simply couldn't help but tap along to the thumping beats of disco anthems. From Gloria Gaynor’s “I Will Survive” to the iconic sounds of the Bee Gees, the whole event resonated with the undeniable power of music that binds us all together.
One particular highlight for me was the parade! Hundreds of people marched through Hammersmith, their faces a tapestry of passion, unity, and sheer unadulterated happiness. A sea of colourful floats adorned with empowering slogans passed by, a powerful symbol of a collective march towards a future where love knows no bounds.
Throughout the day, I captured a whole host of dazzling faces. I had the privilege of chatting with the brilliant artists showcasing their incredible work at the Pride market, their unique art reflecting the tapestry of emotions felt that day. There was Michael, the charismatic jewellery maker whose handcrafted pieces told stories of resilience and empowerment, and Maya, the talented mural artist whose vibrant canvases embodied the kaleidoscopic spectrum of love.
Of course, no Pride celebration is complete without a little bit of laughter, and my heart swelled with joy watching the children revel in the festivities. They twirled their rainbow-coloured ribbons, waved their mini rainbow flags with pure excitement, and soaked up the energy of the celebration. Their innocence, their laughter, and their pure, unadulterated joy truly embodies the core message of Pride.
But more than just a celebration of acceptance, this year's Hammersmith Pride also sparked meaningful conversations. I was lucky enough to chat with the founders of the local LGBTQ+ support network who shared with me their powerful mission. They’re helping create a network of support, a place for everyone within the community to connect, find guidance, and share stories of strength and resilience.
The sheer scale of this celebration in Hammersmith felt like a statement. A vibrant, loud, and proudly assertive statement. It showed that the LGBTQ+ community is stronger than ever, full of life, colour, and joy, ready to celebrate all that we are, and all that we aspire to be.
As the sun began to set and the crowds dispersed, I knew one thing: the spirit of Pride would linger on. This wasn't just a one-day event, but a celebration that echoed across our hearts, leaving behind a ripple of hope, understanding, and empowerment.
I am incredibly proud to have been part of such a magnificent celebration of acceptance and love, my pink tutu shimmering with every happy face and heartfelt smile I saw. This year, Hammersmith became a true testament to the power of community, celebration, and a tutu-tastic, disco-infused, Pride that was, in every sense, absolutely divine!
tutupride #tututuesday #HammersmithPride #Pride2024 #LoveIsLove #Acceptance #Diversity #LGBTQ+ #RainbowNation #ShineYourLight