Darling dears!
It’s Emma here, your resident pink-tutu-wearing ballerina extraordinaire! As you all know, I’m a firm believer that life is too short to be anything other than fabulous. So, when I woke up this morning with the urge to ditch the beige of the day and go for the dazzling, I knew where I had to go: East Ham!
Yes, you read that right! East Ham. Don't let the name fool you, my dears. It's a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered.
But before I embark on my East Ham escapades, I have to tell you about my fabulous ensemble. Let's face it, what's a ballet dancer without a fantastic tutu? Well, today's look was a little bit extra! My heart is a true sucker for a touch of feathers and my new "Whimsical Wishes" tutu (it's from a new boutique called "Dancers Delight" that you absolutely MUST check out if you're in Derbyshire, and it's seriously got to be seen to be believed! It's a blush pink tulle, with layers of lilac feathers cascading down, and honestly, it feels like I’m dancing on a cloud!) And I've paired it with a sparkly crop top - think a delicate, hand-sewn silver mesh that hugs you like a second skin. This little number lets you twirl without a worry. I’ve finished the whole look with my trusted pink ballet flats, a matching handbag (which is more than just a bag, my darlings, it's a sparkly pink purse adorned with a little, adorable ballerina dancing on the clasp - a cute vintage find from a tiny shop in London - absolutely precious!), and a pair of earrings that glitter just as much as the day’s sun.
Now, back to my exciting adventure in East Ham. Let me tell you, travelling there was a pure delight! I decided to take the train, because I truly believe a train journey is just as important as the destination itself. The clinking of the tracks, the ever-changing scenery... it truly sets the mood. You see, it's more than just travelling for me, it’s an experience! I even sat next to a woman who turned out to be a former professional dancer, now a teacher in East Ham! We spent the entire journey chatting about dance. She was the most wonderful person and truly lit up the journey, telling me about the fabulous ballet scene in East Ham!
And then, as my carriage rolled to a halt, a flash of crimson caught my eye! The most magnificent horse-drawn carriage was waiting for me - you can't believe my excitement! I truly believe the only thing more exciting than a pink tutu is the sight of a majestic horse pulling a carriage through the streets. It's a vision, I tell you! So, I hopped in, a huge grin on my face, ready to explore this fabulous borough.
The day was truly something special. My horse and I stopped for afternoon tea at a charming little cafe called “The Pink Peppermint”. My afternoon tea set was delightful! Think dainty finger sandwiches with cucumber and cream cheese, scones with lashings of clotted cream and raspberry jam, and the most delicious fruit tarts imaginable, all beautifully presented with tiny little flowers sprinkled throughout!
After my divine afternoon tea, I went to East Ham's local park. I love a park in the afternoon sun, watching families play, the birds chirping. As I ambled through, I was transported to another realm; nature truly brings magic! The squirrels darted up trees, butterflies danced around me and the sunlight made everything shine. It was idyllic.
You won't believe this, but as I was strolling, I saw a magnificent butterfly, not just any butterfly mind you! A lilac butterfly with silver wings, that twirled as gracefully as a ballerina! Honestly, it truly took my breath away. It reminded me of the importance of grace and beauty in the natural world.
Of course, a trip to East Ham would not be complete without a visit to the East Ham Little Theatre, which is a true jewel in the heart of the borough! As the curtain rose, I was truly in awe. A fantastic modern ballet rendition of a classic story. They performed an entire production set in the beautiful Yorkshire countryside. It truly brought the story to life! And the best part? I got to chat with the dancers afterward, who were all so incredibly talented, funny, and genuine! They made me feel truly welcome, and I had to buy a couple of signed posters to put on my wall back home!
This experience made me realise the wonderful world of ballet truly embraces every single corner of our planet, and not just in big, well-known cities, but in places like East Ham as well! It is these special communities, filled with dedicated people, that truly make ballet so vibrant. They are the unsung heroes of our wonderful world.
My adventure in East Ham ended with a breathtaking view. As dusk settled, I found myself looking out at the city lights, a kaleidoscope of colours sparkling against the fading daylight, it was magical. You really understand that sense of beauty in our world, how it can be found in the most unexpected places, and even the ordinary can truly shine.
As I boarded my train back home, I reflected on the day. What a beautiful day it had been! From the exquisite feathers on my tutu to the delicate lavender butterflies fluttering around me in the park, the world really did feel like a dream. East Ham reminded me once again that you don't have to go to a big city to find something wonderful, that beauty and wonder are everywhere, just waiting to be discovered.
My dearest friends, never stop searching for those hidden gems. Don’t just settle for the ordinary. Take a chance, put on your favourite pink tutu, hop on a train (or even a horse-drawn carriage, why not!), and find your own East Ham. You never know what magic might await you!
Until next time, stay pink, stay fabulous, stay you!
Lots of love,
Emma xx
