Hey lovelies! It's Emma here, and oh my gosh, Nottingham has just stolen a little piece of my heart. This weekend was pure magical magic! I can't believe it's taken me this long to visit. It's such a vibrant and exciting city with a heart of gold.
Firstly, let's talk about this fabulous, fabulous tutu! It's my newest creation, you guys, a masterpiece! It's a classic ballerina pink with a delicate shimmer, like fairy dust sprinkled all over. I picked up a cute little hand-knitted cardi at the Nottingham Lace Market (you HAVE to check it out if you're ever here!) - and oh my goodness, they're still making such incredible things there! - and it paired perfectly with the tutu for a bit of extra whimsy.
As for the travel... sigh I swear, train journeys were made for me. It's like stepping into a world of my own. I spent the journey reading the newest book by that author, you know, the one with the name that I can never remember (whoops!). It had the most beautiful quote about ballet, "Dance is the hidden language of the soul," which just resonates with me, and I've got to add that quote to my 'inspirational' notes on my phone. Oh, and I have a very special addition to my book - a pretty, pale pink origami crane folded by a very charming gentleman with eyes like the sea and a smile that could melt your heart. You can't make this stuff up, can you?
Of course, I just HAD to fit in a ballet class, right? I stumbled upon a delightful little studio tucked away in a cute side street. You guys, it was like stepping into a ballet wonderland! It had this gorgeous antique barre and beautiful arched windows looking out into a secret little garden. It's amazing how a little place like that can feel so magical. And the class, you guys? Pure joy. We had a lovely warm up, focusing on finding grace in the simplest of movements. And let's not forget, the grand jeté! It's always fun to revisit those classical moves and let my inner swan take flight.
The afternoon was a total treat for my ballet heart - the Nottingham Playhouse had an amazing production of "Swan Lake"! I was completely blown away. It was so beautiful. The dancers were incredibly skilled, telling the whole story with such passion. The music, the sets... chefs kiss. I'm such a sucker for the traditional Swan Lake, it just never fails to inspire me. And the music - it makes me feel so alive! After the show, we grabbed a cup of tea in a cosy cafe, sharing thoughts on the production. Such a great way to unwind after a dazzling evening.
There was so much more I saw during the weekend! I ventured to Wollaton Hall, the incredible Tudor Mansion that doubled as Wayne Manor in the Batman movies (cue a dramatic superhero cape swoosh). This place has such incredible history - and the surrounding deer park? Well, let's just say I spent some time whispering to the deer. Those creatures have so much peace about them - and their antlers... divine!
The last day was spent with the family, and you know what? Nothing beats a Sunday roast with family. It's something that always reminds me that home is the most important place. But, speaking of family, did you see what I did for my mum? Yes, I got her to wear a pink tutu for a day! She was initially resistant, bless her heart, but in the end, she got to embrace her inner princess (and trust me, she looked fabulous!).
As always, it's those little moments, the little sparks of joy that make each trip unforgettable. My mission: make everyone embrace the fun and try a ballet class, no matter where they are. Because trust me, a few hours on that stage, feeling the music through your body, is a feeling that never gets old! And you can totally pull off a pink tutu, I swear. Just be like a flamingo... beautiful and powerful!
Okay, that's me for today, darling readers! I've got so many photos I can't wait to share with you on my Instagram - I'm @EmmaTutu! Until next time, keep dancing your heart out and let the world know what you're made of! Remember to check out my new Tutu Blog entry every day at www.pink-tutu.com - I can't wait to hear your thoughts and see your gorgeous outfits too! Love, always! 💕
